Monday, December 30, 2013

Wrapping up 2013 and ready for 2014!!

2013 is coming to an end and to me this year was defiantly not what I expected. So much has changed in the past year it is a little scary. I went back to my post on January 5, 2013 to review my goals for 2013. They were to magnify my goals from 2012. I planned to grow more spiritually/religiously, straight A' s for my MBA program, travel to three new places, run a half marathon, and sign up for warrior dash. Some of those goals were accomplished and others were altered. 

I did grow in my relationship with God but I have seen my faith get tested more this year than ever before. It really shows me how God can bring you through even the toughest of times. Jason and I had many financial blessings and were able to help others, as well as become better stewards for what God has given us. I am not perfect but I continue to grow and learn. Our bible study is doing well but even with that we know we need to grow. We will be having a pastor come to each session to teach us more about the word. I believe there is always room for improvement. If you stop learning or trying to become better than what is the point? I am grateful for what I have but I believe it is important to grow as a person. 


Regarding the MBA program it is going well. Had some bumps in the road this last month with having my personal life effect my schooling. Sometimes even when we try to remain strong our brain is telling our bodies a different story. I am finished with my first year but I hope to continue my education. 


I did not run a half marathon but I did run a relay marathon with some amazing women. I have signed up for the Cleveland 2014 10K run in in an effort to raise money for Huntington's Disease Society of America. The disease is genetic and runs on my husband's side of the family. You will see more of the organization this year as I hope to raise money for the cause. Click on the link below to learn more and donate to my page. The Fennells appreciate all your support.


http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/NicoleFennell/team-run-for-hd-chicago


GOALS for 2014

Depending on how the year goes I hope to enter the half marathon through Akron in addition to the 10K. This year I have defiantly noticed how far I can push myself with workouts and strength. I hope to continue this for 2014. I would like to participate in more runs and become and active member in HDSA. I want to continue my education and learn as much as possible. I want to live my the phrase...get over it! My husband has a great attitude when it comes to this and I hope to have it embedded in my brain by this year. I have also set career goals for myself and pray I have grace in favor in that adventure. Lastly I want to make more time for Jason and I to spend together. We had a very busy year with family, friends, school, and work. I would like us to spend more time with just us, I friend gave me this advice recently and I plan to run with it. 

Honestly this year has been very trying but so much fun at the same time. In our travels we went to 4 new places including Chicago, Clearwater, Cape Coral, and St. Pete's. We shared celebration in our friend
s having beautiful babies and welcoming a new family member to the Fennells. My brother in law proposed to his girlfriend and we all excited for the upcoming wedding. We became boaters and had an amazing summer meeting new people and making new traditions. We cannot wait to go back come April. Its like a vacation every weekend. We plan to use it as much as possible, just like this past summer. Let's just hope for better weather!!! No more hoodies in July :). There have been a mountain full of wonderful beginning this year. However I am ready for 2014 and to say good bye to 2013. I wish you and your family a Happy New Year and to have many blessings in the upcoming year. 


Love Nik