Happy New Year

As I was walking this morning, I couldn't help but notice the headline for the local newspaper read, "Thank God it's over!" (referring to 2008). I know for many people this was probably a tough year - finances, deployements, loss of loved ones. But, I have to say, I will always remember 2008 as the year God richly poured out His blessings on the Cole family.

We began the year praying for 3 specific things ~ stability for our military family, an affordable house that met our family's needs, and a new family member from China. God answered all 3 of these requests with a Yes that blew us away.

Eleven moves in nineteen years was beginning to take a toll on our family, and with both of our older kids in high school, we so longed for the chance to get them through high school in one place. In April of this year, we found out Bill would have a good follow on assignment at Ft. Belvoir, getting both of our kids through their high school years.

In July we closed on a house - the same house we had been renting for the past 2 years. We looked at so many houses in this area and found nothing we liked as much as this one. While we were sad for our landlords that they were divorcing, we were so glad for our family to get to stay in this home and neighborhood that we liked so much.

And then in August, when we saw Michelle's referral photo, we knew she was meant to be ours. Bringing her home on Christmas was just icing on the cake! She is more wonderful than we could have ever imagined and so meant to be a part of our family.

So, I want to say thank you to my Abba God, who loves to give good gifts to His children. We are blessed beyond measure.

I wish you all a wonderful 2009!