Hello guys, I hope you are doing well!    (song at the top for you to play during this read ;))

 A little bit different, but astepcloser was 1 in January, specifically, on my birthday :)) 

Truth be told I didn't realise I had actually made the website on my birthday, but honestly that makes me kind of happy, to know this was what I was doing last year when I turned 20 (on the 29th of January). I don't do a ton of appreciation posts like this, something I'll likely change, but when I look back at 2024, I feel it is so necessary. As I mentioned, I didn't realise that the anniversary was so soon! I actually went to look for any sign of proof on my camera roll (I love pictures) and when I was going through the whole year, I couldn't believe how blessed I am. The amount of new activities I got to try, new people I got to meet, and new experiences I got to have was incredible to see. But firstly, I must talk on how my relationship with God evolved. 

To keep track of the thoughts God puts in my head, and the things that jump out at me during the day, I have a notes page that I call 'Notation Notes'. Just scrolling through shows all the insightful questions that had risen during the year; I love how curious I was, and I pray I never stop asking God questions. I feel like the questions themselves align so well with what I was just coming out of (the passing of my mum) - faith-based questions, trauma, understanding. I think it was the first time I experienced God and it's so special. My zeal for God and the things of God has grown leaps and bounds, yet this year is the learning & development one! My relationship with God, actually began - my inauguration year >< - and realistically, meant I learnt more about His characteristics, as you do in a relationship. A feature of God I would love to mention is the power of His Word. I think 2024 was the first full year of consistent Bible reading and relationship building and as I read, God uncovered so many layers to me that I never knew I had, planted multiple thinking points in my head, and all round just made things known to me. Undoubtedly, it required a lot of honesty from me, both with myself and God, and I didn't always decide to listen to the things revealed to me, but I believe God was very patient. His Word was and is doing the work, and this is so clear to me, as I look back on the year.

As I mentioned, the wound from my mum's passing was sill very fresh, and I was just feeling very sensitive. Funny enough, when I look back on the year, I think God really cheered me up. Big and small, I just had so much fun, even just going to lectures or the library was fun! I had cheer competitions, stayed in different cities with friends, went to Denmark 3 times, started placement and went out sooo much in summer (the story of when I got it is straight out of a film), started dance classes (even Christian ones) in London, and more. I honestly just had an absolute ball. I think what it helped me see is how blessed and privileged I really am. To have a family as loving and supporting as I do, to go to university close to where I live, to be able to move my body. Honestly, just having clean water and lots of food to eat, on demand. I would like to think I've come out of that year more grateful than ever, refreshed, and renewed. 

In conclusion, my first full year as a Christian has been the best year of my life yet. Funnily enough, this is the first time I've made this distinction. No wonder it was amazing. I'll remember it forever, but I know my best days are not behind me. There is more to look forward to, and I'm very excited for them :)

Thanks very much for reading, I really appreciate it!!

I hope you have a blessed rest of your week, I love you with the love of God ;)

R x