Friday, June 29, 2012

The Dreaded End of the Year Letter for 2011


Dear Friends,



Many of you have asked when I would write my end of the year letter.  Fear not!  Your wait is over…



As I count down the days to 2012, I am approaching the year with a sense of relief and expectation.  I have had an interesting year on many levels.  I have been in my home for a full year now and still have not finished moving in.  There are so many projects to do and not enough time in the day!  Something I know we can all relate too.  I must say that I have had some incredible help from family and friends for some of the major issues that have cropped up.  I feel truly blessed to have you in my life.



In July, I was given an amazing opportunity as Assistant Bursar of Mercer University.  I have placed my education on a brief hiatus as I learn the ropes of this very challenging and enjoyable position.  I have not had to opportunity to supervise so many before and I am finding that it is an intriguing place to be.  You have the opportunity to mold individuals and yet butt heads at the most inconvenient times.  I hope to prove to be a capable administrator.  I still do not know what I want to be when I grow up or truly what God wants me to accomplish but I believe I am exactly where God wants me to be.



I am working on getting back into shape, my job and change in schedule has made a little more of me to love.  I continue to fight the good fight knowing that the better I feel the more productive I am.  I continue to teach Kickboxing at Mercer, as much for my sanity as an outlet for my creativity and desire to motivate others to excel.  This class keeps me moving even when I do not have the desire.  



The girls are amazing!  Taylor began ninth grade this year.  High School, can you believe it?  She has so much charm and character, her wit continues to amaze me.   She is beginning to think about her future and believes she wants to go into the Medical Field.  She has a caring heart and would truly do some good within that arena.  She is growing up to be an amazing young woman.  Madalyn entered third grade this year.  It is simply unbelievable that my baby is almost 9.  She has her Momma’s heart.  She is always concerned about me and if I am okay.  She appears so tough on the outside but has a heart of gold.  They are both so bright and beautiful and have prosperous futures ahead of them.  I am blessed that God has given me such beautiful angels.   It has been hard but God’s hand has guided me.  As a single mother I work hard and do the best I can.  While I am not able to give them all of the time I would like or even provide them with some of the current trends in fashion (the horror) or some of the gadgets that make life easier, they have more than enough, and I am thankful.



I have come a long way from the broken individual I was two and a half years ago.  I am independent, strong, and solid in my faith.  I am proud of who I am and excited about where I am going.  It has been a lonely road, more keenly felt through this holiday season than any other, but I have courage knowing that God is molding me into a woman of unique character and inner beauty.  He has promised me good things and I am hopeful.



Not only has God blessed me with a wonderful job, a house, and two lovely girls he has also eased my way by  giving me amazing friends and family who have lifted me up.  As we approach this New Year together, I pray that you feel God’s presence in your life, guiding, and shaping you as well.  May it be a year where family ties are strengthened, where you find peace, joy, and life!



This is a season where we celebrate with and cherish those we love.  Please know that I am thankful for you and could not ask for any greater gift than your friendship.  I wish you a very Merry Christmas!



Best Wishes for You and Yours,

Jessica Ellison