The Blessings of Blogging

It feels like all I have been talking about lately is my One Year Blogging Anniversary for the past 5 or 6 days. That's because it's exciting news!! And because I have decided to do a "Giveaway", and wanted to get the news out.

When I think about the last year and being involved in this new hobby or venture, I have to think about all of the ways it has blessed me.

But before I talk about those beautiful blessings, I have to tell you that Pam over at "You're Gonna Miss This" is the inspiration behind me blogging in the first place. Thank you, Pam, for being my cheerleader in this. I have gotten so much out of blogging and you knew that I would.

The purpose of my blog at the time when I "signed up", was to journal about my family and the adventures of moving from the U.S. to England. What I didn't know would happen, was that along the way I would meet and get to know so many wonderful ladies (and one dear woman's husband that blogs, too. Hi Steve and Kat). You all have prayed for me, made me laugh, made me cry, inspired me to be a better Christian, Mom, Wife, Woman of God, a better prayer warrior, a better friend. I am completely blown away by all of this and am humbled and honored that I get to write and you choose to read it.

When I started "Joy in the Journey", I couldn't see myself lasting for an entire year and write about my anniversary. It just seemed like a daunting task, a difficult hobby, a time-consuming one, and one that I wouldn't necessarily be good at. The thing is you learn as you go. By the way, when I started, I had no idea what I would call it. I prayed about it and the Lord showed me that in as difficult a thing that moving from one continent to another would be, I would have to experience JOY in the journey. Isn't it easy to whine and complain? I'm pretty good at that from time to time. I wanted it to be a place where I can talk about the joys. Sure, I have rough moments or even days, but there is so much to be thankful for. So much joy to be had. And God, the God that gave me "Joy in the Journey" as a title in the middle of the night, receives all the Glory for He is worthy of my praise.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me. I get emotional just writing about it and thinking of you, my dear, sweet friends. I have met Pam and what an amazing, strong person she is. I look forward to spending time with her in the future and meeting some other blog friends that live near her. God is so good to connect us in this way.

Here's to the coming year and the many blessings God will show each of us. Let's all experience His Joy in the Journey.

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Since there is a 5 hour time difference and it is only about 4:20 EST there and almost my bedtime, I will post the winner to my giveaway tomorrow morning and post it then.

Blessings and Love in Christ,

Carol