As we begin a new year, new hopes, dreams, & resolutions begin as well. Though, before we move forward, it is important to reflect back on all that the previous year has brought with it. So, here are 17 things I learned in 2017...

1. Don’t put your hope in anyone or anything but God.
2. Don’t compromise who you are for what you (or someone else) may want.
3. There’s some sort of good in every bad situation.
4. If someone truly loves you, they will sacrifice what they want for what you need.
5. Trust God’s plan, even if it entails going through emotional pain & growth.
6. Don’t be sad it's over, be grateful that it happened.
7. You can find God in every situation (even third-world country food poisoning).
8. Time heals all wounds– no matter how deep.
9. Don't become chained to the past by thinking it was better than it was...make this moment better instead.
10. The enemy will consistently try to make you feel like you’re alone – you’re not.
11. The only One you really need is God.
12. The greatest gift in life is having family & friends who truly care about you & your well-being.
13. Know your self-worth, then add tax.
14. Don’t allow anyone to make you feel less than who you are.
15. You don’t need no man in your life. “Dating” Jesus is lit.
16. Joy & happiness are two different things. Know the difference.
17. If this year didn’t go as planned, don’t get discouraged. God‘s plans are always better than our own.

Happy New Year friends! Here's to 2018 and the next beautiful, crazy, exciting year ahead of us.

xo, Lex