A New Year

There is definitely something so refreshing about a New Year. It feels like the slate has been wiped clean and it's a chance to start fresh and make some needed changes. It's also a chance to reflect upon the past year and remember all of the highs and lows that have shaped, changed, influenced and affected me. I've been thinking about some things I'd like to accomplish or strive to do this year and listing them on a piece of scrap paper. Now that we're well into January I figured it was time to compile them into a list of official "resolutions". So here it goes:

• To take a "chill pill". I recognize that I worry way too much. If there is something to be worried about, count on me to worry about it. Even if there is nothing to worry about, I'm still worrying about it. I've also realized that I let little day-to-day things stress me out. I just want to keep things in perspective. I realize that taking care of Henry and William is a full time job and that there will be days that I'm just not able to accomplish anything else. I want to be ok with that.


• Galations 5:22-23; to evidence the fruits of the Spirit that Paul lists in this verse. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. With a big emphasis on patience.


• To steer (pardon the pun) clear of houses, mailboxes, dogs, other cars and state troopers. No car accidents in 2008! 2007 was quite the eventful year for my personal driving record. Check my blog for an upcoming post about all of my car accidents last year.
• To remember birthdays and anniversaries. I really admire my Aunt Anne. She not only always sends a card for every birthday and anniversary, but these cards always arrive early. I'm so impressed by her and really touched by her thoughtfulness. I really want to strive to remember friends and family's birthdays especially-I'll start small, and send cards. (e-cards if the date sneaks up on me) *disclaimer: I just marked all b-days on my calendar, so if your birthday has already passed this month and the card has not arrived, it will be in the mail shortly!
• To wear my pre-pregnancy jeans. I have a few pairs of jeans that I just love and I would just love to be able to wear again. So instead of listing a number of lbs to lose or a goal weight I'll just set my goal as my favorite pair of Gap jeans. To get into those jeans I'll need to exercise (I have a few workout videos that I'm going to use until it warms up outside)and switch out some chocolaty, sweet snacks for some healthier options. I have such a sweet tooth, I will never eliminate them completely, but I definitely could do some cutting back. I think I'll also start opting for lattes at Starbucks with 1/2 the syrup and no whip, thanks Holly!
• To plan meaningful "play" with Henry. I'm ordering this book, Montessori Play And Learn: A Parent's Guide to Purposeful Play from Two to Six by Leslie Britton from Amazon. I love the Montessori method and this book has ideas for teaching your young child in practical ways with the materials you already have at home. I just want to make the most of the time I spend with him.
  

These should keep me pretty busy in the upcoming year! I'm excited to go into this new year and looking forward to seeing it unfold. 2007 was such a full year: Henry turning 2 and becoming a big brother, William's arrival, going to New York to visit my childhood best friend, Katie, and so much more. I'm so thankful for all of the blessings in the past year.