Eight years.

Who would have ever dreamed we’d spend our eighth anniversary flying from Scotland to England, taking in the beauty of the UK, looking back on God’s faithfulness at the Single-Minded conference and looking forward to four days by ourselves to take in the beauty and history of London? Really?! Are we really doing this right now?

The last time I was in London–eleven years ago–I was a different person.  Becoming Mrs. Jeffrey Patterson has only changed me for the better. We’ve had sweet spots and rough spots (and more spots to come!), but every spot has been good because God has been graciously making us look more and more like Jesus. You are His primary instrument in my life.

::You’ve given me confidence. Hands down this is the biggest way God has used you to change my life. Your unconditional love transformed me.

::You’ve given me grace. You’ve convinced me that it really is ok to just be me.

::You’ve steadied me. The roller coaster that was my life has smoothed out into a (fairly) level path.

::You’ve pushed me. You’ve stuck me to courage, made me do things that you know God has equipped me to do. You’ve believed in me, in God in me, when I have not.

::You’ve empowered me. Your belief has been contagious. I believe.

::You’ve seen the very worst of me and in me … and you’ve loved me through it all.

When I was here in London last, eleven years ago, I remember thinking, “It would be so amazing to return here someday with my husband.”  At that point I certainly had NO idea that husband would be you! But I’m so very grateful that God Broke My Heart and then, in His wisdom, put us all back together.

Broken people becoming whole. That’s you and me.

That’s grace.

So grateful for it. Happy anniversary.

13 thoughts on “Broken People Becoming Whole (A Happy Anniversary)”

  1. Kari, I found your blog through (incourage). Happy Anniversary! I read your post, “God Broke My Heart” yesterday- I don’t think I have ever read a more beautiful and true love story. I love that God is the center of your love “story”. I have already shared it with friends. All that to say, I love your “space”. 🙂

    1. Wow, thank you so much, Jennifer! I can’t wait to check out your “space”! 🙂 I’m in London right now and have REALLY limited internet, so just saying a quick hello but I’d love to chat with you more. I’ll head over to your blog soon… blessings on you!!

  2. Crying! I love you guys and am so thankful the Paskins get to walk with the Pattersons in this crazy life!

    1. Oh my friend! I miss you SO. You guys are such a precious part of the fabric of our lives. Love how we get to be intertwined so much! Love you!

  3. Happy Anniversary to both of you! Enjoy your time over there.
    Kari,
    Thanks for being open to sharing….and allowing God through Jeff to help encourage, love, and help you to become free to be all God sees and knows Kari as. 🙂

  4. Oh so very Happy Anniversary to you both. God is so very creative the way He weaves two people together. Special plans for you both, known from before the foundation of this world! What a great adventure! Nothing sweeter than a lovely couple with Christ at the center, high and lifted up!!! Love you like I have known you a long time….

    1. Aw Debra, I miss you! Hope you had a grand time with Janie…looking forward to seeing you when we get back! Love you!

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