My 2013 Goals

Resolutions.  The new year makes us think about the things that we want to change about ourselves, our schedules, our homes.  We have a fresh start to "be better" and "do better".  But don't we really get a fresh start every day?  Why do we wait until January 1st to "start over"?  Over the last year, I worked on 40 things I wanted to accomplish by the time I was 40.  I turned 40 in October and accomplished a good chunk of the items on the list, but not all of them.  To see my list, click HERE.  After October, I really didn't look back at that list much.  Traveling and the holidays kind of took over.

Now, 2013 has arrived and I have some things on my mind that I want to focus on.  First and foremost, my main resolution is.....

After reading THE HAPPINESS PROJECT by Gretchen Rubin, (review HERE) I decided I want to focus on those things in my life that make me happy and get rid of the things that steal happy moments away or prevent me from being happy.  I want to let go of the little things....not worry so much about things out of my control...and just be in the moment.  That is what I want for my life.  Isn't that what we all want?????

Aside from that, there are definitely things I want to accomplish....I still want to get our photos under control and organized.  I want to get my recipes organized.  I want to do better with having a clean/organized home and planning out our meals.  I also want to accomplish that elusive task of making homemade bread!

I want to keep reading, spend time with Jesus, pray, and be an encouragement to others.  That is what I want out of my year.  I don't think it is too much to accomplish.  I believe all these are within my reach and accomplishing them will make me happy, which again, is my focus.

Some devotionals I have added to my daily reading include:

JESUS CALLING

By: Sarah Young

Published: October 12, 2004

The readings for each day are short, but even just after three days, are very thought-provoking.  I can only assume this will enrich my daily life.

DAILY STRENGTH FOR DAILY NEEDS

By: Mary Tileston

Published:  1928

I first heard about this book while reading THE END OF YOUR LIFE BOOK CLUB by Will Schwalbe.  Since it was a free download for the Kindle I thought I would give it a try.  So far, the lessons have been intriguing and even though the writing is of an older style, I have been enjoying it.

I have some other things that are brewing and ideas rolling around in my head, but I'm not ready to begin them yet.  I'm taking things slow and seeing what I can accomplish before biting off more than I can chew.

I am blessed, loved, and healthy.  I have a loving husband and three talented, beautiful, and exceptional children.  My parents are healthy and active in our lives.  My extended family is ever present in my life and I am so thankful for their love and encouragement.  In 2013, I want to embrace all that is good and wonderful and cherish the moments....and BE HAPPY!