[the past year!]

Anticipating change is probably the biggest catalyst of reflection for me, as it is for many others. During this exciting time in the small Bartholomew household (BABY coming in February!), I can't help but think back on the last year as Ben and I started this incredible journey together. Reflecting on the past gives me so much delight and assurance of reality; where I've been, how I've grown, and excitement of where God is going to lead me. Bob Marley says it the best: "In this bright future you can't forget your past." 

We had some of the most incredible memories over the last year, beginning with a honeymoon to St. Lucia!

moved into our sweet home in North Knoxville (and I even improved my gardening skills!)...

of course we had to get a dog... Layla Bear...

and she grew pretty fast...

sweet meredith got married on the most beautiful october day!...

 

this guy grew so much-a big 3-year-old...

two more nieces and nephews were added to the family...

 Brooklynn Grace

Wilder Ellison

we did some boarding...

Rachel did some triathlon-ing...

some team hiking...

celebrated Christmas with the families...

went to Snowshoe with great friends...

and Blowing Rock later...

had some great sister time...

went on an amazing cruise to the Bahamas...

Ben graduated in 4 years :-) ...

had some Steeplechase fun...

Ben discovered his new favorite pastime...

I fell in love with four wonderful kiddos...

kacie got ENGAGED!....

 went to Miami with these kids!...

 

saw my best friend, who lives way too far away... San Francisco fun!...

Ben has been doing some hitting...

 

 

and currently we've been given a huge surprise!...

At the conclusion of all this reflecting, one theme seems to keep coming to mind: Great is God's faithfulness. While this past year has been overflowing with happiness and joy, there have been some difficult times as well. But isn't God good? We can't expect life to be free of suffering, but we can rely on God to redeem us through it all. My heart is full of thankfulness, and I hope you can reflect on all the blessings you've been given!

-sarah