As 2013 is coming to an end, I asked myself what do I wanna thank God for this year and what have I achieved this year?

I wanna thank God for His goodness and faithfulness in my life. Not in order of importance, I type as it comes to mind. Somehow pregnancy has its effect on my memory.

1. I got to know and work with finance department better. It was a hurdle for me last year and I had a major breakthrough this year. In terms of work management, I did much better this year compared to 2012. I felt I was emotionally stronger in that I didn’t allow my personal issues affect my work performance.

2. Baby’s health was a major concern and stressor earlier this year. I struggled with quitting my job and wanting to look after Izzie by myself so many times. I learnt to trust in God and became stronger. As a family, we grew closer. I wanna thank God for His protection, His healing and a successful open heart surgery.

3. I have never cooked anything other than instant noodles for myself. This year I learnt to cook for Izzie. From puree, I progressed to cooking soups for her. Feeding her solids was a trying task. I am glad she is finally able to accept Chinese cuisine. Hur hur.

4. I thank God that I got over post natal blues and learnt to cope as a mommy with a young baby. I am comfortable taking care of Izzie on my own especially during peak periods when my hubby has weird working hours. Although it was tough, I thank God for His grace which is more than sufficient every time.

5. I thank God for my family. I do not need to speak of my unmet needs. Somehow both my parents and parents-in-law are able to fill in the gap. What have I done to deserve this love?

6. I thank God for a group of close friends whom I feel safe to share my feelings with. Their words of encouragement have lifted me whenever I was down.

7. I thank God for many caring colleagues who prayed with us especially during the surgery period. I couldn’t thank them enough especially those whom I have little interaction with…I was touched when they came to visit or dropped me a message to say they are praying.

8. I thank God for AWESOME. I have killed her with my mushiness…but because she did not allow me to wallow in self-pity and helplessness, I became stronger, more positive and resourceful. She has helped me a great deal in making me a better me. Thank you AWESOME.

9. I switched over to Samsung phone after using the iphone for 3 years. I did not pass my phone to Soo Chee or Pei Pei to customize. I learnt to do it for myself. I learnt to solve issues on my own. For that I am very proud of myself. #menotageek

10. I thank God for my hubby. I hadn’t made things all easy for him. I am usually alright handling things on my own. But I am overwhelmed, I manifest it all out on him and he was gracious enough to embrace the totality of me. He tries his best to provide for this family and to play his part in making this family work. He cooks a lot more this year and I am super grateful to fantastic hubby-cooked meals.

I posted this exactly one year ago and it still speaks to me now.

Marriage is a commitment. It’s success doesn’t depend on feelings, circumstances, or moods – but on two people who are loyal to each other and the vows they took on their wedding day…

Marriage is hard work. It means chores, disagreements, misunderstandings, and times when you might not like each other very much. But when you work at it together, it can be the greatest blessing in the world.

It’s a relationship where two people must listen, compromise, and respect…and a union in which two people learn from mistakes, and willingly adjust behaviors that need to be changed….

Marriage means talking things out, making necessary changes, and forgiving each other. It’s unconditional love at its most understanding and vulnerable – determined to triumph over every challenge and adversity.

Marriage is a partnership of two unique people who bring out the very best in each other and who know that even though they are wonderful as individuals…they are even better together.
~ Barbara Cage

 We are leaving for HK in 3 hours’ time and I am so looking forward to a great time. 2013 has been wonderful and I’m hoping for a more glorious 2014. Happy new year everyone!