The Last 10 Years
I saw someone do an exercise towards the end of the year where they wrote down all of the major life events and accomplishments they made over the last decade. I thought to myself — I wanted to give it a try. I’m just now taking the time to write that list, and I’m going to share it with you below.
Here’s the thing: I often feel like I am not making any progress. It feels like I have not grown as much as I would want, and it is easy for me to beat myself up. Why is it so easy for us to think about all the things we have not been able to do rather than celebrate all we have accomplished. If you’ve been struggling with some of the same mindset struggles, I’d encourage you to try the exercise.
Here’s an incredible decade and lots to celebrate!
2010-2020
Graduated from Carson Newman
Moved to the beach with my college love
Couldn’t find a job because of the oil spill
Moved back home to Mississippi
Started job at BWW
Broke up with college love
Prayed for clarity
Met Andrew
Moved in with the Lays
Bought first digital camera
Connected with new and old friends
Started dating Andrew
Started counseling program
Quit job at BWW
Started working at Southaven 1st UMC
Starting photography side hustle
Mission trip to New Orleans
Moved in with the Grays
Joined a gym
Learned to dance
Completed Masters in Counseling
Got first ‘real’ job
Got engaged
Mission trip to Eureka Springs
Moved into apartment
Got married
Became a Zumba instructor
Leo joined the family
Called to ministry
Started the discernment process with the UMC
Applied to seminary
Mission Trip to El Salvador
Moved to Monticello
Started at Candler School of Theology
Became an Aunt - Aubrey
Started photography business
Continued to discern call
Met incredible people
Moved to Woodstock
Pastored Mount Gilead UMC
Luna joined the family
McKenzie was born
Started photography business
Connected with ATL creative community
Graduated from seminary
Commissioned as Elder in UMC
Associate pastor at Sandy Springs UMC
Etta was born
Bought first house
Launched empowerment work
Luke joined the family
Mission trip to Birmingham
Traveled to Cuba
Trip to Seattle
Launched Growth & Grace Podcast
Mission Trip to Panama City
Celebrated 6 years of marriage
First Growth & Grace Brunch