Thursday, January 2, 2014

Hello, 2014!

Well, hello, Blog World. Long time, no see.

There are actually many reasons for my hiatus from blogging. It's been a very traumatic and personally challenging time for our family. Betrayed by friends, abandoned by family, a lot of personal loss, my sweet daddy diagnosed and passing away after a short but brutal bout with cancer, serious sickness with my precious little niece, tragic death in my extended family. Not the kind of stuff blog posts are made of. It's hard for me to even talk with close friends and family about such raw feelings, and I just needed to take a break from blogging.

I can truly say that, in spite of it all, God has been real to me during this time. And it's just increased my hunger for heaven. It's made me more grateful for the Blessed Hope, and more zealous to share this good news with so many who have no such hope.

I was very optimistic about closing out the year and ringing in 2014 surrounded by friends and family. Unforunately, we were visited by a stomach virus and had to cancel all our plans. Not exactly what I wanted. Still, I'm looking forward to 2014.

Best news that I missed blogging? WE'RE HAVING A BABY! Stringer Baby #6 is due on May 21. We couldn't be happier.

And even better news than that, one of our children experienced "spiritual birth". The Lord saved our sweet Bubbie this past year. In eternal perspective, that new birth is much more important than the first birth. It was real, and he was precious. For that, I am eternally thankful.

Here are a few picture highlights:




































Blessings to you in 2014!

2 comments:

Lori said...

I have been thinking about you lately. I'm sorry to hear about your Dad and all the other situations. I can't believe how your precious children have grown! Congratulations on the new blessing! I hope to see you blogging more in the future.

Tara said...

Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragment, Lori!