Midnight sparklers.

Last day of 2012. So soon? A strange feeling. And it will grow stronger minutes before the clock strikes twelve. It always does. My eyes water at the thought of another year becoming history and a new one being on its way. 
I was incredibly blessed throughout the past twelve months. This year I had joy. So much joy. Joy never before experienced, and joy found in the smallest of things. I danced under the summer rain. Drank chai tea wrapped up in a blanket. Read books [lots]. Traveled. Sang songs. Took long walks. Swam in rivers. Watched the starry skies. Blew out seventeen candles. Cried through trials. Shared long embraces with the people I love. Laughed. Picked out a Christmas tree. Beautiful gifts, all of them.  

This upcoming year will bring many new challenges. Leaving the warmth of the home I've lived in for seventeen years to become a freshman in college is the first to come to mind. As 2013 begins, my prayer is to continue growth. To grow in love for the world and change; holding fast to the Truth- His truth that penetrates my soul to the deepest of parts. 

I flip through this year's photographs. How does one pick a favorite?  

The shutter continues clicking, capturing the tiny bits of this glorious life. 

♥

The clock ticks.

Quick, light up the sparklers.