Happy New Year, 2015!

I cannot believe it's January already. 

2014 absolutely flew by, and now here we are, welcoming in a brand-new year.

I love New Year's. I love a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning.

I am one of those people who like to make New Year's resolutions as well!  I love setting goals for myself and as a family. This year, Shane and I sat down and chose a verse that will be our theme verse for the year. We also chose verses for each one of the kids too.

Our family verse is Colossians 3:17 "And what ever you do, in word or action, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him!" 

We've committed to put this verse to memory AND practice this year! 

The verses we chose for the kids are personal and apply just to them. Shane and I prayed and thought through specific areas in our children's lives where we would like to encourage them, as well as see spiritual growth. We chose verses for them accordingly.  

It's been a blessing to see our kids put their verses into action already. 

And even though I love New Years, I'm not a huge fan of New Year's Eve! I'm an early to bed--early to rise kind of girl, and will actually turn into a pumpkin if I stay up too late;)! Thank goodness for friends who feel the same way! 

For several years now, we've gotten together to celebrate New Years with our sweet friends, the Robinson's! 

Most of our crew can't make it to midnight anyway, so we usually pick a country that will be ringing in the new year at 9pm and party hard with them. This year, we celebrated the arrival of 2015 with the people of Rio, Brazil!

We had so...much FUN! We played games, had a piñata, let off fireworks, enjoyed a balloon drop, and toasted the new year.
What an amazing night!

Here's to a wonderful and BLESSED 2015!
 I have no idea what the 2015 holds for my family, but I'm so thankful to know the ONE who does!

Proverbs 19:21
Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.