2011 has been a year of change.
With the year halfway over, I can confidently say that I have discovered myself, that I have reached into the deepest parts of my heart and prayed for healing, and that God has delivered that healing.
1. I have seen change the most in my relationship with God. I can feel Him and it’s incredible. I started writing in a prayer journal and continue to read scripture every night. I know I will never be where I want to be spiritually. Are we ever? I don’t think so. There is always room to grow. But right now, compared to where I was and where I have been, this relationship with my Father is taking my breath away.
2. I have written a lot of posts about body image, posts that remain unpublished in my Drafts folder. I can’t bring myself to publish them, mostly because they are extremely personal and hard for me to admit. But they are there, and as I was reading them last night, I realized that I am no longer in that dark place of hating my body. God has truly answered my prayers and is healing my heart.
3. Less personal, this blog has reached a solid 75 Followers. Hold the phone, 75?! I never imagined such a day. What keeps you reading? It has to be the Utah posts.
4. Speaking of body image, this year I have lost around 30 pounds and have signed up to run my first half-marathon. I am excited and nervous, but mostly proud of myself. Will you come cheer me on? I’m going to need encouragement around mile 8. (Not to be confused with that Eminem movie. Or wait, that was 8 Mile.)
5. I know me. I know what music I like and I listen to it. I know topics I am interested in and I research them. I love my Jesus shoes and I don’t care that my friends make fun of them. I am me, I love me, I know me.
And I’m pretty fabulous, if I do say so myself.
2011, you have been a year of enlightening change so far.
I can’t wait to see what the next five months have in store.
I am Al and change feels good.
I think your body is great from the pictures I've seen! And I'm glad you are growing so much as a person and spiritually! I would love to see your images on body image, I just posted one about my recent struggle which is now the past because I'm happy because I love how I am and people love me like this and God wouldn't have made me like this for no reason. I really think your blog is always amazing and inspiring. If you want to see my post on body image its at http://soisaidyes.blogspot.com/2011/06/i-promised.html! I hope it can inspire you! I'm glad your change is good!!
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ReplyDeleteYOU keep me reading, Al! Do you prefer Al or Autumn? Never been sure about that. Anyways, your humor, insight, depth, and uniqueness keep me reading. I think body image is a dark struggle for almost every girl -- many just aren't willing to admit it, which I understand. But it's really encouraging to read about your healing and your deepened walk with Christ :) Much love and keep writing, Hannah
ReplyDeleteloved this post!
ReplyDeleteand i love the utah posts! =0)
Hey, I'm your newest follower, your blog is amazing! And congratulations on reaching 75 followers AND losing 30 pounds in 2011! If you don't mind, how did you do it? I'm trying to lose a little weight myself. Anyways, I think you are so adorable and I LOVE that you are so open about your relationship with Christ :) Can't wait to read more!
ReplyDeleteLauralee
this is awesome! I need to start my prayer journal back up again. it is always neat to see how God answers prayers and be reminded of the things He's done!
ReplyDeleteand congrats on losing weight and staying so healthy! that is so awesome. good luck on your half marathon...you are so brave! I always wished I liked running. :)
Megan
letterstorome.blogspot.com
I love your Blogg Autumn! How do I make mine super cute like yours? Can ya tell I am new!? haha Miss you!
ReplyDeletefabulous and soo humble!
ReplyDeletealso, i only read for the utah posts.
also, i will be there around mile 8 with an encouraging clip from the movie 8 mile. sound good?
also, will you be there to cheer me on after mile 1 of the 5k i'm going to run eventually? thanks.
also, it it what it it. life it what you make it.
much love from porky.
what a perfect post. I'm so happy it was my introduction to your beautiful blog! it sounds like 2011 has been a very productive year so far! with each passing year, I find my relationship with God evolving a LOT. I'm so happy about that :) and your goals for the half-marathon!? so exciting! keep praying and it'll keep making this year wonderful :) God is good! xoxo {av}
ReplyDeleteI saw your feature on FTLOB and I had to stop by! I love this post and am now following because of it! Congratulations on the feature!
ReplyDeletecongrats on it all girl! & hurrah to running a 1/2 marathon! you go :)
ReplyDeleteI just came across your blog, and i love it! sincere writers are always the best:) i love your 21 before 21 idea, such a cute way to set goals and live your dreams! You'll do so good on your half marathon!
ReplyDeleteYou are all fabulous! Thank you for your comments!
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