2021–A Year in Review

What a year 2021 has been. I like to look back over the previous year. I enjoy making new year lists and resolutions. It helps me to gain perspective. It helps me to remember to be grateful.

2021 was certainly a year for the record books.

We had snow-mageddon–not once but twice which was a true record for central Texas. My brother Steve died from Covid. We mourned and wept and huddled down and prayed for a vaccine, for relief, for God’s guidance. I knitted and sewed and puzzled. I wrote books, published books, edited books–immersed myself in words and imaginary lives.

And then the vaccines came, and I was able to breathe again when my mom was vaccinated, then my husband, my son, myself. We poked our heads outside. We began to meet in person, to worship in person. I re-joined my church’s praise band. We marveled at being able to spend time with friends and family. We relished our time spent together and enjoyed those gatherings outside. Fawns were born, flowers returned, dogs ran through the fields. Summer followed spring, as it always does. We took simple trips–close to home, our time spent outside, carefully…carefully.

Sports returned and life in our small town took on some semblance of normal. We celebrated the 4th of July together, then fall, Thanksgiving, and soon Christmas. We welcomed Milo and Duke to our family.

If I were to be honest (and what’s the point of writing if you can’t do so honestly), it’s been a hard year filled with grief and loss. But it’s also been a year filled with blessing and renewal and love. As we approach 2022, there’s a tentative feeling of “we can do this” along with a little fear that things might grow worse again. But the one thing we can be sure of is His love, His guidance and our commitment to each other. Those things are constant.

And so my wish for you is time to reflect and courage to look forward. May your holidays be a balm for your spirit and a blessing to your heart.

See you in 2022.

Vannetta

Comments 152

  1. 2021 was been a rough year…my husband passed away suddenly May 6, 2021..since that time I’ve lost 7 other friends….I had to put my house up for sale & move 4 hours away to live with my sister because I had no family that lived close to help me…I could not ask on my neighbors for assistance & help all the time…even though I know they would do what they could for me…I had some springbok decisions to make & a lot to take care of with handling all the paperwork that needed done from my husbands passing…but I’ve made the move & adjusting to everything….still have totes to unpack but that will be a Spring project for me to deal with…I’m doing good….I’m praying for one of my old neighbors because she is dealing with some really bad issues….going to be doing more reading now that I’m partly unpacked & thanking God for taking care of me…

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
        1. Post
          Author

      2. It really has been a hard couple years , we all went into 2021 thinking it was going to be a better year, in a way I guess it was, more things open up and people were able to get out, but we got another type of virus and more people started getting sick again. So really don’t know what to expect for 2022. I guess just have faith and trust God to look over us. Thank you for another year of writing wonderful books . Bless wishes for a healthy happy year.

        Reply
        1. Post
          Author
      1. Post
        Author
    1. Post
      Author

      I’m so sorry for all of your lasses, Patsy. May the peace and love of Christ surround you during these difficult days.

      Reply

  3. I’m so sorry for the loss of your brother.

    My 2021 included a trip to my hometown to visit good friends and my sister in July. At that point I was fully vaccinated and thought all this behind us. My son got married in November. Attendees had to be fully vaccinated or have a negative Covid test within 72 hours. But after being postponed once from March, 2021, we were glad they got their wedding. It was a lot of fun, it was beautiful and it was worth the wait.

    I wish anyone who sees this a very happy and healthy new year. And I hope this pandemic is behind us for good in 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  4. 2021 was a year of changes for me. I went from working 40 hours to 20 hours, part time at home and part time at my office. I will be retired on Dec. 29!!

    Also, I lost my Mom in July at age 95 – A blessing since she was so sick, and I know where she is! And blessed that my brother lives with me.

    Looking forward to 2022 and reading some of your books!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Congratulations on yoru retirement, Jerrie. That’s awesome, and I’m so sorry about your mom. We know that they’ve gone on to a better place, but we still miss them!

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Sandra, I know you do love on that grandbaby, and I’m sorry about your mom. I think, in our hurry to “get past” covid, we forget that many people are still grieving their losses. Blessings in 2022.

      Reply

  6. My year was fine. This pandemic has not affected me. I have had family and friends who have had COVID. We have continued to go out and enjoy life. We have not changed our lifestyle. Take plenty of vitamins eat has healthy as we can and get out and get fresh air and sunshine. Spent lots of time reading books that you wonderful authors have written.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  7. It has been a hard year for us as well. Surgery for me last January. Not fun having surgery during a pandemic. Spent time with my grandchild. Was able to meet one of my favorite authors (that’s you) Lost several close friends two from COVID and one from a terrible car accident. She left behind two children and a husband. Believing for a better year and excited about new books coming out. Hope to have lunch with you sometime in the new year as well.

    Reply

    1. It sure has been a hard year. We have had several family crises, breaking my heart. However the Lord was with us all the time! There was healing in relationships and happier times are ahead. One relationship has not been reconciled much to my dismay. It hurts but I know that God has His Plan! Covid has taken its tole. But God has protected our RN daughter, so amidst the hurting and struggle to exist in this very new “normal” life in the pandemic, there is hope! My dream is to come back to Texas for a vacation!

      Reply
      1. Post
        Author
    2. Post
      Author

      Hi Deana. It was awesome meeting you as well. I’m so sorry for the loss of your friends. And yes to lunch–yes, yes, yes.

      Reply

  8. It was a year of change. I was not on the semi with my husband. I enjoyed our backyard pool. I read a lot of books and reviewed them. Made new author friends.
    I had some highs and lows, but always God was near.
    The best gift was a visit from my daughter after almost 2 years.
    Looking forward to more in 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  9. I love your pictures you shared with us. My year was spent in clinics and a lot of pain . But God gives us what He knows we can handle. My gardens did okay but kept me busy. As my husband had one Model A after another coming to be fixed or let the owner how to fix. The last 5 were being sold so he got them ready. After that he ended up having heart attacks and then a double bypass. God is great letting him get through and eventually he will be able to go back to work on his favorite cars. I am guppy God let me be with him on this earth. We will celebrate our 50th Anniversary in 2022. I love to read..

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

  11. 2021 was a rough year. Loss friends and family to Covid. My mom died before Christmas last year and 2021 brought many firsts without her. I still have heartache that I don’t think will ever heal. I miss her so much. I’m praying 2022 will be better for everyone. There is so much heartache in our country right now with so many trying to move on from losing loved ones. We never know what may come our way but thank God I know the one who does. I’m putting all my trust in the Lord. Happy New Year to everyone.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Jackie. I certainly can relate to the heartache. I pray that you will know the peace and mercy and joy of Christ today and throughout the upcoming year.

      Reply

  12. My year was kinda lonesome. I spent much much time at home. I can’t take vaccines of any kind so no help there for me. I lost my favorite cousin and a good friend to Covid. One of my son’s suffered through it but he made it. I prayed a lot, dreamed a lot and read a lot. I am blessed i am still here though. So all in all my year could have been much worse. I had the knowledge God is in control and for that alone I was blessed.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  13. 2021 was a mixed year of happy and sad.. Lost a couple close friends to cancer, my oldest was in a serious car accident and still not to use her foot for few more months, so no walking or driving for her yet! But she survived it, thanks be to God!
    Our great granddaughter turned 2 and we could all get together to celebrate.. fun times! My second oldest got to come home from Norway for the holidays..
    We finally got some painting in the house Finished 😁
    Lots of cases in our area now so things are slower, but we are still alive so let’s thank our Lord for all his Blessings each and every day!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Linda. It was a mixed year. I suppose most are, but we felt it more strongly in 2021. Blessings for 2022 on you and your loved ones.

      Reply

  14. I am so sorry about your brother. What a very hard thing. Prayers for you all. Always remembered. Always loved. We are dealing with health concerns and it has been a hard year but I’m proud of us that we have survived together. God has provided in some pretty amazing ways. We lost a very dear friend to Covid and other health problems 2 months ago and it broke our heart. On the plus side we are blessed with wonderful family and friends. Hope your new year is just great!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Pam. Thank you for your comment. I think that losing someone you love reminds you to hug tightly to those still here. That’s definitely a lesson I learned in 2021. Blessings!

      Reply

  15. January 1st of this year started out rough. My 17 year old Corgi was already suffering from dementia and was blind from cataracts then when we woke that morning she had had major potty problems through the night. She was my sunshine. I saved her from an abusive situation- was her fourth home and she was absolutely perfect for me. I gave her a new name – Lady Rose Petals ♥️ I told her that she may have had a rough beginning but I promise her a blessed life with me. It was rough fir her not understanding what was going on. I have two mini wire-haired dachshunds as well and they were so good to her. In the meantime I survived teaching through a pandemic. I was hoping to enjoy a restful summer recuperating from the stress of school.
    I was preparing for my mother to move to Florida to live with me, but Covid put a stop to the plans temporarily I thought. She had been here with me three years prior and had moved some of her things here. We had just lost my grandmother, her mother, and she had to go back to Kentucky to take care of things. Then – Covid. In March of this year, she started to sound congested and kept telling me it was sinuses. If you live in KY that’s believable. Well, we got through April, May and part of June. The entire time she was telling me she was packing her suitcases and planning what furniture to bring …. She still said she had sinus issues and then around June 21 I didn’t hear from her. We talked daily multiple times a day. I called. No answer. I couldn’t leave a message since she didn’t set up her voicemail. I called my brother and his wife. No answer. This went on until July 19 when I called and told them I was calling the police to do a welfare check if they didn’t call me back. Finally my mother called me. She sounded horrible and I started crying. It was just too much. She still said she had sinus issues and the doctor was going to be there the next day to see her.
    My brother called me the next day snd said my mother had congestive heart failure and that she had a tumor under her arm pit that was the size of an orange. I was devastated. He told me she had four to six weeks.
    I flew up to be with her on that Saturday but she passed away earlier that morning.
    My brother and his wife told me that my mother threatened them not to tell me what was going on with her. She was afraid she’d worry me. Ugh.
    I’ve spent the past five months in total despair trying to understand what has happened.
    Petals passed away October 15 and that took me to a deeper level of pain.
    Your books have given me a sense of peace. Even though I’ve read almost all of your books, I’ve gone back and have listened to them on Audible. I have immersed myself in your characters’ lives and that has helped me deal with the grief and trauma that I’m living with. I am seeing a Christian counselor too. I’ve even shared your books with her. She wasn’t familiar with Amish fiction! I know GOD is going to walk me through this time. He did so 11 years ago after I lost my father to stomach cancer.
    I’m grateful for Him, my church family, my brother and his wife. I’m grateful to authors like you who write beautiful stories that are Christ-centered.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Crystal. Please know that we are praying with you as the calendar turns to another year. And thank you for sharing my books!

      Reply

  16. 2021 has been coming back out to a more so called normal type of living, There were more concerts and plays to usher at the Cailloux in Kerrville and the Point in Ingram. I got to go back to my volunteer jobs at our church’s resale shop and at our senior citizen center. We got to celebrate Christmas this year with our family. Last year at this time we had COVID. The lord be with us all throughout the new year, 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Elsie. What fun that you are down the road from me in Kerrville and Ingram–a lovely part of Texas. It has been nice to see parts of life return to normal. 🙂

      Reply

  17. So sorry for your loss. You’ve described 2021 well for, I feel sure, a lot of people. After walking my older sister-in-law Home for 3 years, she transitioned to Heaven in March of this year, right after our snow-mageddon which lasted for 2 weeks, not common by any means in central Arkansas. A year of blessings. A year of mercy. A year of pain and confusion. A year of identifying with bears who wander out of hibernation into the real world ! At the end of 2020, without perhaps realizing it, I pinned many hopes on 2021. As this year comes to a close, I’m thinking I’ll just pin my hopes on Jesus! Your books have brought me much pleasure during both 2020 and 2021. Wishing you and yours much joy in the coming days.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Cathy. I’m sorry for your loss as well, and I love how you said it–a year of blessings, a year of mercy, a year of pain and confusion. That’s all so true!

      Reply

  18. We had a good year along with the bad, with the good coming ahead. We did loose a sister, though not to Covid. But, we did get a new daughter and grandson when our son got married. They are a wonderful addition to our family! And her family and ours get along and like to do things together.
    We were able to get our vaccines, and got to see family again we hadn’t seen in a while.
    Praying for comfort to you and your family. Looking forward for a better year for all of us.
    God’s blessings to all of you.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  19. 2021 was the second year I spent much of my time indoors. I remember going to get my first vaccination and actually breathing the fresh air and thinking of all I am missing. I spent another year reading a lot of books and started reading some psychological thrillers that I enjoyed for a change of pace. But because of my faith and my upbringing, I always return to my Christian novels. Sadly, I lost a nephew and his mother, my sister, had a heart attack She is steadily recovering but I notice a change in her. The broken heart of a mother who has lost her child is very hard to heal. I can’t even imagine her sorrow. I have only one son, who means the world to me and hope and pray that we will have many more healthy years together. I pray the new year will bring good things for us all.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  20. Dear Vannetta,
    Sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. 😥
    Sending wishes for a blessed new year for you and your family!
    ~ Pat (Florida)

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  21. This has been a very mixed year. I spent a lot of time at doctors for tests, mri’s and you name it I likely had it done to me. My husband has been suffering neck issues from the disks closing together. My best friend’s husband was diagnosed with cancer. My dentist, who was a good friend was killed in Arizona in a car accident. My older son who should have been getting engaged on December 20th broke up with his girlfriend of 6 years Labor Day Weekend. The good news….my daughter is engaged to her partner. My younger son proposed to my soon to be new daughter and we had a wonderful weekend of celebration in Austin, Texas. I have become part of several ARC teams for authors and am enjoying reading for reviewing as well as for pleasure. Yes, a very mixed year.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  22. It’s been a rough year. Friends have been sick with COVID, some didn’t make it. Family gatherings didn’t happen. I had a triple bypass in the middle of this pandemic, too. All things considered, God is still in control and is still good.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  23. So sorry to hear about your brother’s passing. My family has been healthy except for a cold or sinus infection or two. I’ve read lots of books, worked lots of puzzles, taken care of a friend’s children. I also work part time. At the end of 2021, my husband retired; he’s been doing lots of volunteer work. A good friend passed away and celebrated Christmas with Jesus himself!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Tracie. Whatever 2022 brings, I know that we will lift up and support one another. That’s one thing that 2021 taught us!

      Reply

  26. With cOvid out there it’s been a scary year for us. No family get togethers. Mask wearing always when out or if someone comes to the door. Limited outings for groceries or other items. Wearing masks when we do go out or when people come here.. I worry this is our new lifestyle. But, I’m still optimistic for 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  27. Our 2021 passed pretty uneventfully – we had planned a trip in place of the one that was cancelled by COVID in 2020 but alas it was cancelled again and so one day was pretty much any other at home as we are both retired. Our County is about 51% vaccinated so it means that we do not feel any freedom from fear of catching COVID. So far 2022 is not much improved. A trip to the bank and grocery store yesterday showed very few wearing masks and the health-conscious school board members were replaced by the anti-maskers/vaxers. I am not feeling that optimistic of things changing for the better this year.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Praying there are big improvements this year, Linda. I don’t know if we’re stronger from all this, but I do believe that we will appreciate “normal” like we never did before.

      Reply

  28. I’m so sorry about the loss of your brother. It has been a year of hardships and a year with some joy. We lost a very close friend and we miss his daily phone calls and jokes so much. Yes, we felt a sense of relief as we and our grown children were vaccinated. Now, with omnicron we are back to being more anxious. My husband fell down in 2015 and came home from the hospital 16 months ago after having covid in the hospital. He has lost a lot of his memory, but it is wonderful to have him home. I hope you have a wonderful New Year.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you ,Kathleen. Praying for you and your husband. Unfortunately 2022 started with several in our family coming down with COVID, but they are vaccinated and so we are hopeful they will have a light case.

      Reply

  29. 2021 has been a pretty normal year for my family. My husband has had bronchitis in the last week or so, but he’s feeling better now. I had a cold a couple of months ago, but otherwise I’ve been fine. Both my husband and I have had both of our vaccines and a booster as well as the flu shot. Normally we take a trip or two, but this year aside from my visiting a good friend on a day trip and our going as a couple to Michigan for the funeral of an elderly relative, we haven’t done any traveling. At the end of 2021 my husband retired, and he will continue volunteering at a nearby mission to help the needy. I still work part time and will continue doing so. Reading is a relaxing, inspiring form of entertainment that both my husband and I enjoy.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      I’ve missed taking trips. Praying that your husband’s retirement will equal more special time between you both.

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  31. Happy New Year! So sorry for your loss! I love your books and seeing glimpses of your life in Texas ..also your animal family. Thank you for your positive Christian perspective. The questions and answers about Amish life are always interesting. Best wishes for 2022! Praying it’s a great year for all!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

      I love them too, Cindy. I had worried how they’d do with the dogs–but it would seem that everyone is best buddies.

      Reply

  33. So sorry for your loss. 2021 was hard for everyone in one way or another. I don’t know if we will ever return to what we knew as “normal,” but we can hope. If only the virus could be more under control. I pray for all to stay healthy in the New Year.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Kathy. Some days I forget what “normal” even was, other days I feel as if I can see it around the corner. I, too, pray for good health for myself, my family, and my readers. You all are very important to me!

      Reply

  34. I’m sorry for the loss of your brother. We have lost a a cousin and a friend to Covid. Wishing you and your family a Happy and healthy 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Shirley. I’m sorry for your losses as well–it’s never an easy thing to lose someone from your life. Praying we all experience a little less of that in 2022.

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Cecilia … and I think the kittens are cute too. They’re definitely over-photographed by SOMEONE (haha-me).

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

  38. THE MAIN THING ABOUT 2021 IS MY BROTHERS HEALTH ISSUES. HE HAS BEEN IN DIALYSIS FOR 4 YEARS NOW. HE IS ALSO A TYPE 1 DIABETIC SINCE AGE 8 BECAUSE OF HIS KIDNEYS AND PANCREAS NOT WORKING RIGHT HE HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH HIS BLOOD GLUCOSE BEING VERY IRRAIC THE GOOD THING IS THAT HE HAS NOT HAD TO BE HOSPITALIZED BECAUSE OF HIS HEALTH WHICH I CAN THANK GOD FOR

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  39. Hi Vanetta, these past two years have been tough for Americans and since history shows that 3 years is the average run for a pandemic, we may have a bit of tough left in this year. Close friends and family members have been hit hard by covid either with loss or health or finances but we all keep trusting the Lord and hoping He has a better plan for this new year. However, we can always find joy if we look for it, and reading has been my reward through my lifetime for each days’ worth of job well done. Your books are some of my favorites and they are as enthralling when I reread them (usually every year) as they were the first time I read them. Everyday I try to remember in my prayers to thank GOD for His many countless blessings and pray for all who are dear to me, and Him. I hope and pray you have a sweet life this year and remain healthy, happy and strong. GOD bless you!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Cindy. I didn’t know that about 3 years, though I do understand the parallels between this pandemic and the influenza outbreak. At least that particular event in history teaches us that “this too shall pass.” Thank you for stopping by and blessings on you and yours in this new year.

      Reply

  40. Happy New Year 2022. I hope this New Year will a lot better than the last 2 years. Too much Sadness for so many people. I lost a Few Friends to COVID19. It doesn’t get an easier when you see Loved Ones & Friends suffering with this Virus. I hope everyone gets their Vaccines, Flu Shots & Boosters to keep themselves & others Safe & Healthy. We have to think Smart & hopefully, we will come out of this Virus ahead of the game. My Prayers to All of those that have Lost a Loved One. Keep Strong & Keep Safe. I Love your Books Vannetta. They are so inspiring. Again a Happy & Healthy New Year to You Vannetta!! Liz Whelan

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  41. Wishing you peace, love and Light in the New Year! May your creativity soar and your life be Blessed! Your books bring me peace, and we all need that these days! Blessings.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  42. Thanks, Vanetta, for an opportunity to enter a giveaway! Hope I can win one of your wonderful books! Looking forward to a new year and how God will continue to work in our lives, meet needs, answer prayers and watch Him sustain us all. Appreciate all your prayers for us as well, as we continue to reach souls for the Lord in Montana. Thanks, and God bless! Happy New Year, as you draw closer to Him!!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  43. Well 2021 has been a different kind of year for everyone I think but I have found that me and my Husband has grown closer than ever to Jesus, so with that being said I would say 2021 has been a blessing for me and him. We plan on renewing our wedding vows in February on our 25th. anniversary.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

  45. Happy New Year! Here is hoping that 2022 is a much better year. We’ve sure had our ups and downs. We lost our little dog of 15+ years Tuesday, he is the only “child” either of us have ever had, we are heartbroken over losing him. Looking ahead to brighter days.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      I’m so sorry, Teresa. I know how close we can get to our pets. I think my husband will need an intervention when Phoebe goes. Blessings on you both in this new year.

      Reply

  46. 2021 didn’t bring the restoration of the world I was hoping for so much. I want so badly for the world to be freed from all of these health restraints. My head hurts sometimes from trying to decipher too much information. But 2022 may provide us with more understanding, if not I lean heavily on my Lord and Savior for His truth and grace in these strange times. Books have been a refuge for me as they have been for my entire life. I hope to read more and allow fewer distractions. Happy New Year, Vannetta, to you and your family.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Oh Connie–don’t read until your head hurts! I appreciate your sweet spirit. Blessings on you and yours during this new year.

      Reply

  47. In March of 2020 my grandma passed away suddenly and her grandchildren couldn’t even go to the funeral only her husband and her children so this last July we finally got to get together and have a family reunion .My sister in law had a baby boy in May,my sister in law girl turned one in August,my sister had a baby boy in October,and my sister in law had a second baby girl in November.I got to meet my sister’s baby boy for the first time this last month since they life out of town.I am also a caregiver for my 94 year old grandpa we don’t think he is going to be here for much longer .

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Kendra, I think that is one of the great tragedies of 2021–not being able to be together during moments of loss and moments of celebration. Praying for you and your family!

      Reply

  48. I’m starting 2022 recovering from surgery and fighting off the bug my husband shared with me. I should probably be tested for Covid, but I’m too sick to leave the house. I am vaccinated and can still taste and smell, so hopefully it’s the flu. I’m grateful for good books to keep me company. Let’s hope and pray for a wonderful 2022.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  49. I love your new kitties, what a cute way to start the new year. The dogs will soon learn who rules the house! 2021 – Sent 1 kid off to college and got one back, yeah still no empty nest! Hoping 2022 is good for my family and friends.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Yes, the dogs are learning, Jan. lol. And I love that “sent 1 off, got 1 back.” We’ve been through that cycle for sure! Blessings on you and yours in this new year.

      Reply

  50. I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. Unfortunately, 2021 seemed just as difficult for many people as 2020 was. Here’s hoping that 2022 will bring more blessings!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Some days I have a hard time remembering when it all started. One year ago? Two? I have Covid-fuzzy-brain. Yes, blessings for all in 2022. Thank you for stopping by, Susan.

      Reply

  51. Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother. It is never easy to lose a loved one. My prayer is that The Lord will heal our land this year and call His people back to Him. I pray that Christians will repent and unite in worship, that we will once again follow God’s laws and His way. (2nd Chronicles 7:14)
    May this year bring about more praise and worship of The Lord and may The Lord heal His people. God bless you and your family, Vannetta.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  52. 2021 has found me living on a farm by myself. I am in a wheelchair because I lost my right leg 10 years ago. I lost my husband 5 years ago. Also in 2020 I lost a nephew and a cousin from Covid. I am 88 years old and have a bath lady for 3 hours hours a week. Otherwise I can still cook, bake, wash clothes, iron, and do everything except vacuum andmake a bed. I read many books. My computer helps me be c
    onnected with others.
    I have 3 children who come every few days and will bring me groceries etc.
    I love vannetta Chapman”s Amish mystery books.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi JoAnn. Thanks so much for your comment. We’ll be praying for you that throughout this new year God shows you many joys and blessings.

      Reply

  53. Oh, Vannetta, I am so very sorry for the loss of your brother. 2021 was not a good year for me. I lost one of my favorite cousins in May, then within a space of a month and a half after that, I lost 3 close friends. I don’t think I have cried so much in such a short time EVER. I am so tired of funerals. I am believing for a better year in 2022. Thank you for your wonderful blogs, your outstanding books that are always favorites of mine, and your wonderful spirit. To everyone that lost someone that is reading your blog replies here, I am deeply sorry and I offer my sincere condolences.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  54. I cared for my mom for nine months before she passed in May after losing my dad the past year it has been difficult this holiday season . Thank you for sharing. My love and prayers for a Blessed and Happy New Year.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Lucy. I’m so sorry for your loss–parents are such an important part of our lives. I lost my dad when I was only 34, and I still miss him. But I also feel his smile and his love. Blessings to you through the new year.

      Reply

  55. We also had a rough year. My husband and I both had Covid in September. I was hospitalized on out 25th wedding anniversary. I was in for 5 days, on I oxygen for 2 weeks and missed 17 days of work. However, God brought us through it. We have lost a lot of friends, customers and one family member this year. I know God’s not done with me yet. I was really sick. So sorry to hear about your brother. Happy New Year! God bless you and your family.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      It sounds like you had a rough time, Debra. I’m so glad to hear you are better now. Blessings on you and yours this new year.

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  57. So sorry for the loss of your brother. He is with Jesus now. 2021 was a hard year for so many. My hubby and I learned that he has pancreatic cancer in September. He was in the hospital and then went into a nursing/rehab facility for a couple of weeks. Now he’s home and I am his care giver. In October, I packed up our 4 bedroom home (mostly by myself) and we moved into an apartment. We could no longer take care of the house and our five acers. Leaving our home of 26 years was very hard for both of us but we are adjusting. I’m not sure what I will do after he passes but I know God will care for both of us and our family has been very helpful. Happy New Year and may 2022 be a better year for all of us. God’s blessings and grace will see us through. With God’s help, all things are possible.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

  60. No matter the year, what we CAN stand on is that our Lord Jesus is in control. As the Alpha and the Omega, our original author and Creator, He knows the beginning, middle, and ending of our stories. He is who we immerse ourself in during times of sickness, death, loneliness, etc. He wants us to be there with Him in all times, whether we determine them to be good or bad. He is our refuge. Happy New Year everyone. May your 2022 be better than 2021 and may your relationship with Jesus get closer and better.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  61. 2021 was definitely a different year for all of us. We got vaccinated and boosted. Still we had our family Christmas dinner on New Years day because our 16 yo granddaughter tested positive for covid just beforeChristmas.. But we are all well and gathered together yesterday so we are grateful . Looking forward to another different but wonderful 2022!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  62. 2021 had its ups and downs with family’s illnesses, isolation due to the virus at times, but joys with a new great nephew and always knowing God is in control. My little foster cat became my adoptee in 2021. Gracie continues to do well with all the TLC and good nutrition I’ve given her after being neglected and abused with poor nutrition. My vet did discover she was allergic to seafood, thus the label for all cat food needs to be read as even chicken will have ocean fish added in. Who knew, but thankful for a great vet. I started sewing again in 2021, helping my Amish friends at times, and always being available to assist family members. God is good.

    May your 2022 be a year filled with blessings! Looking forward to more great books to read and review.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  63. Just wanted to wish you and your family a Happy New Year! May the Lord bless you. We have all been through a lot this past few years, but God is still in control! I have enjoyed reading your books and look forward to reading more.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

  65. There were happy times and sad, heartbreaking ones (my 94 year old mom has dementia and seeing her suffer is heartbreaking.) Through it all God is faithful and carries me when I don’t think I can go on!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Hi Linda. Dementia is a terribly difficult thing. We’ve experienced it in our family as well. Praying that your friends and loved ones will surround you with care.

      Reply

  66. Thank you for sharing, Vannetta. May you have a wonderful year as we all move forward–and big CONGRATULATIONS on the adoption of Milo and Duke! Catastic! 😉

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Thank you, Audrey. We are enjoying the kittens and the dogs are slowly coming around to sharing the house with them. 🙂

      Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  68. I thought I had a rough year last year but after reading some of the comments here some people had a lot of loss and heartache. Praise God for his faithfulness and that he never changes!

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      I know what you mean, Vivian — but, as a counselor once told me, you can’t compare your trials to someone else’s. The things we go through are hard, and it’s okay to admit that. Praying that you have a wonderful new year.

      Reply

  69. We had a very easy time last year, but some problems as I am 81 and my husband is 83. We did lose 2 close friends to covid last year, and a cousin from surgery. This year is starting
    out bad as we have 2 family members with covid now, but with prayer we will be okey. God is with us every day, so we always have the faith to live each day as best we can.
    So sorry for your loss this year, and pray next we will get this covid under control. Happy New Year to all.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

      Can you imagine the new year celebration we will have on Jan. 1, 2023 if covid is gone? I can imagine it. And one day that will happen. Blessings, and thank you for stopping by, Marilyn.

      Reply

  70. Vannetta,
    2021
    August – Hubby and I had Covid.
    Fast forward to Dec. 24th
    I was attacked by a dog.
    He knocked me down and I landed on the cement driveway with my head turned to the left.
    The dog is lying on me and I’m afraid if I try to get up
    he will bite me (PTL he did not)
    I found out later that the dog “loved women” and “loved to play”
    I am highly allergic to all dogs and I was not in the mood to play.
    The chiropractor said I have whiplash.
    I have an eye appt. and a dental appt. to make sure
    that everything is where it is supposed to be.
    Prayers are very much appreciated.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author

  71. So sorry to hear about your brother,I lost a Daughter-in law and my oldest sister last years. Praying that 2022 will be a whole lot better then 2021. Thanks for the pictures. Injoy looking at them.hope your New Year is bless.

    Reply
    1. Post
      Author
    1. Post
      Author

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *