It's a New Year!

There is always sort of a slight let-down when Christmas is over for me. The decorations must come down, no more beautiful lights on the streets, no more Christmas carols....but at the same time, it is nice to get back to "normal." Back to eating healthy, back to a routine, less traveling and spending. So, although Christmas is over, there is a new year ahead, filled with opportunities. Opportunities to grow, opportunities to love more and live more. Opportunities to count our blessings and appreciate those we love even more. Every day provides an opportunity to start fresh, but there is something about a new year that makes the possibilities seem endless.

I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions. I think it's much to easy to give up if you decide that beginning January 1st you will eat healthy, exercise daily, save money, give up a bad habit....it's too discouraging when you have a set back and makes it too easy to give up. So, instead of setting resolutions I am setting goals for 2008. I love goals because they give you a sense of purpose and there is such a sense of accomplishment when you reach a goal. If you do set resolutions or goals for the new year, do not give up if you have a slip-up. If your goal is to lose weight, don't accept defeat because you have a cheeseburger and fries or because you gain 2 pounds during your birthday festivities. If your goal is to work out, do not give up because you have a lazy week and don't walk or hit the gym once. Look at every day as a new opportunity and stay focused! And finally, set realistic goals and break them down into smaller goals leading up to the "big" goal to keep you motivated. I also think it's important to celebrate every time you reach a goal. Give yourself a reward every time you reach a goal. It doesn't have to be expensive, either. You can treat yourself to a manicure or a day away from the kids to enjoying a sport or activity that you love or a date night with your sweetie or a new pair of jeans when you lose that 10 pounds or whatever will keep you motivated, but do not give up on yourself.

Here are some of my goals for 2008

• Get a job (I just know God has the right position for me and can't wait to find out what it is)
• Get back into my "skinny" jeans (By doing Weight Watchers and exercising)
• Take a cooking class
• Complete 2 Bible studies (maybe more, but 2 is a realistic goal)
• Get the credit card paid off
• Take a trip to Virginia
• Take a trip to Kansas
• Take at least one weekend getaway with just Jay and I
• Finish decorating the kitchen & master bathrooms

I have lots of other aspirations, like being more patient, becoming a better Mom & wife, spending more time with friends, increasing my faith, doing more scrapbooking...but those are not measurable and will never be finished, so I'm not putting them on my goals list.

I pray that this new year is a great year for all of you. I pray for health, for prosperity, for joy and for an appreciation of just how special and worthy of love you are!