Reflections on Year Two

Life moves so fast it is hard to keep up!  The past month has been another wild ride as I officially end my second year of school and head into my third and final year of coursework.  I am working hard to complete my dissertation during this third year as well, making weekends full of school for now.

As I reflected on the completion of my second year I decided to commemorate my learning with another Kelli Rae Roberts figurine.  I found once again that the learning and growth of the past year were beautifully reflected in the words.  As I reflect on this past year the most prominent theme would be "celebrate who you are."  In my professional journey I have embraced and celebrated strengths and the gifting of others, however I have not always been able to give myself the grace to celebrate my own gifts.  Through challenging course structures, an empowering visit with a wise women in NC, and an opportunity to use my gifts fully in a wonderful opportunity, I have embraced who I am a little more. 

I truly feel extremely blessed to be in my program and continue to be thankful for my new colleagues in the program.  I want to give a shout out to our research group!  How blessed could a person be? Together we researched, presented, and had our research published.  These five people have been a true gift in my life! 

As I stood in front of my year one "vision collage" today and reflected on my five year vision, I was amazed at how many pieces of the dream God has allowed me to step into already.  There are dreams on that collage I was not sure were possible, and yet they are unfolding as life moves forward. 

One such dream was the opportunity to write a book.  This past year I had the opportunity to join some amazing women leaders and write a chapter in a book that has just been released.  I am humbled as I write this - how could this person who wasn't suppose to go to college end up in a book?  Brings tears to my eyes as I reflect on where I am and how God takes basic people and still somehow blesses them.  I am proud to say I am a part of this amazing book! 

As I wrap up my reflections on year two I have to add the most important components of my life - my faith and family.  Central in the vision collage is a commitment to strengthen my faith and family.  If it were not for my faith I would not be on this journey.  Each lesson learned ties back to God's faithfulness, grace, and love - and somehow he continues to love me despite my childish ways.  I pray I live a life that reflects his love and grace.

And my family... so blessed to have a wonderful husband and children who support this journey I am on.  Their encouragement and belief that I can do it energizes me to keep going. 

It has been another amazing year and I have never questioned if I am to be in school or at the University of La Verne. Thank you to everyone who has walked the journey with me - I am looking forward to all the learning and growth ahead in year three!