Goodbye, 2020!
Wow. What a year!
At the end of every year my friends and family are always so glad to see another year gone and a fresh, new start begin. Didn't we all feel that way? Saying adios to 2019 and hello to 2020! A fresh new year!
No one knew what 2020 would hold for us and we've all experienced new things. Not all positive but not all negative either.
We watched our country fall apart, our loved ones get sick and even lost a few friends along the way. But, if you're reading this, that means you're still standing. You survived both literally and figuratively.
As a small business owner, 2020 was hard for me personally and for my business. I had been in my studio for 3.5 years and had worked so hard to build it up to the successful little business that it was. Within the first three months of 2020 I was..
- Moving out of my studio two months sooner than expected.
- Not being allowed to work and provide for my family.
- Losing clientele and cancelling sessions.
However.. there were so many of God's blessings along the way that did not go unnoticed.
- Being ABLE to move out of my studio two months sooner and not having to pay rent while not being allowed to work.
- Finding a magical location that worked beautifully for all newborns, maternity and family sessions.
- Meeting new clients and capturing their sweetest moments in the midst of chaos.
- Having a loving family and home where we were safe.
You see, 2020 will soon be a distant memory.. and for some, it was their best year yet! First time mommies and daddies welcoming their brand new baby. Only children becoming a big brother or sister. Big moves, new homes, new love..
I'm thankful for 2020 as I'm sure many of you are, too. It may not have been what we personally wanted but God was never shaken by 2020. Last year never took Him by surprise. We've been taught that God's timing isn't always our timing and that His plan may not be the same as our plans. This past year, a lot of us have learned this the hard way. In 2020 I learned to not worry so much about the world and focus more on my relationship with Jesus. I may not fully understand what's going on but He does...
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5
At the risk of looking back and reliving the past year, I would love to hear some of the blessings that you felt from God in 2020. If you'd like to share, please just use the contact form below to email a little blessing from last year!
Or - if you're on the other end and could really use an extra prayer. Email me how I can pray for you!
I'm looking forward to 2021 and having another new beginning. Even after last year and learning that a new year doesn't always mean a fresh start. Starting this year, starting in January, starting today... I want to TRUST GOD MORE and take hold of this fresh new start.
With love,
Amanda
*My family photos taken by my dear friend Amanda Lovelace.