What a year 2018 has been! So much growth and gratitude! God has been so good to me!
I had my second knee replacement surgery in February 2018, went home the day after instead of two days later, and after lots of physical therapy, I can now walk without pain in my knees! That doesn't mean that I don't still have the RA and FM pain everywhere else in my body, but it is definitely freeing to be able to walk without a cane or walker. I try to take care of my body and I pray that the autoimmune stuff stays quiet. One day at a time...
2018 also had me breaking out of my "shell", so to speak. In October, I completed my first 4½ hour drive ALONE! Woo Hoo, that was freeing! My nephew and his beautiful bride got married and I was determined to be at that wedding. I was so happy when I arrived at my hotel! Exhausted, but happy. It was a gorgeous day for the wedding, not too hot, and I also got to see some of my out of state family that I hadn't seen in more than 35 years! I am so grateful to God (as my Guide) that I was able to make the trip!
2018 was a time for growth and reconnections. My brother and sister both live back in the area and have become such a wonderful lifeline and source of joy to me! I've been back and forth to their homes and them to mine several times throughout the year. Always a great source of fun and laughter when we get together!
I was "allowed" to spend a few hours with my grandson, Bentley, at the beginning of December so we could go to dinner and then Walmart to let him pick out his birthday present. He turned 6 and is so tall! He did say he is the tallest one in his kindergarten class. Them Burkey genes have taken a hold of him. 😊😊 I still haven't met his new sister who will be two this year. All in God's timing.
I survived Christmas 2018 without a tear! (2017 brought a threat of the little men in white coats) My daughters are still doing their own things, sans me. BUT, I have learned that I can find joy, peace and comfort in God (as well as my siblings) and He will never leave nor forsake me! Everything else is in His Hands. I trust and pray everyday that He will soften their hearts so that they will find their way back to Him and in turn to me. In the meantime, I have learned to really enjoy my own company. Who woulda' thunk it?! LOL
So, here we are... A New Year... New Beginnings... New Hopes... New Goals...
May this year bring everything you hope, dream and pray for!
