February...29?

Tomorrow is February 29 - it's not often we get to write that date.

In fact, the last time we saw the 29th of February was four years ago (obviously), when I was still in college.

It's amazing how things have changed and happened since then...

- I had not yet been accepted to ACE (nor had I graduated from college), which has been a HUGE part of who I am today, especially in terms of my career as a teacher and my personal growth.


- I had no dreams of living in a big city (truthfully, I was very much against it), and yet I find myself in one today.


- Shoveling snow and scraping ice off my car was not my idea of fun - and I had never had any experience with such activities - but so far (in a mild winter, I know) I've done a-okay. *Keep those fingers crossed.*


- There was no desire on my part to live in, or let alone visit, the Southwest, and yet I survived and enjoyed its desert beauty for three years.


- Patience was something I never knew I needed so much more practice in, but as a teacher, I get loads of practice each day.


- My faith life was strong, but I didn't work as actively to cultivate my relationship with God (even though I did pray a lot and assisted planning many Catholic Student Union activities in college). Now, I read books, blogs, websites, and more - and I've even been on a few young adult retreats.


- Coffee was not even on my radar, but I find it hard to go a (school day) without a cup o' joe - it starts my mornings off on the right foot.


- One marathon was under my belt, but who would have thought I would add 4 more (and all in different states)?

I could go on, but I think that's enough for now. But, isn't it kind of crazy to think about the changes when you take a look back?

And doesn't it make you excited for the possibilities ahead? A lot can happen in four years...clearly. Maybe there is uncertainty, but in God's hands we know we'll be all right.

Think about it: Where will you be on the next Leap Day (2016 - whoa!)?

Tomorrow starts our benchmark for the next four years. Enjoy the ride...