It's hard to label a year good or bad because when looking back there have been both in every year that I have lived. I suppose simply having the chance to experience another year is the good thing and blessing in itself. Mostly, 2018 is year I will remember with fondness.
Here are a few thoughts to remind myself as I take on another year, although I usually wait till February for my actual goals.
What is working?
Grocery online ordering and pickup has actually changed my life.
Stashing cash for short term goals is keeping me from spending what I have allocated elsewhere. I love knowing the cash is there for bigger expenses that I know are coming.
Therapy when things get challenging has helped me know I'm okay. It gives me a place to voice the darker things that I sometimes want to deny and yet know there is a way through them.
More intentional time off work including family vacation, visits to family who live far away, girlfriend time and days off coinciding with school breaks. I feel like I'm maximizing the time I do have, even though it never feels like enough.
What is not working?
Extreme drive-times with three kiddos at three different schools. I have attempted a car pool, but nothing has worked. I don't know the solution, but I need to be in the car for fewer hours each day.
Often I stress over things that I cannot control: other peoples' emotions, decisions and consequences. I'm working to let these things go and channel that angst into prayer, learning what I can from it, then refocusing my attention.
Overconsumption of screen time is another thing NOT working and I'm being intentional about
Something old, Something new, Something borrowed...
Something old that I still love: Ponytails
Something new I will try this year: Strength Training
Borrowing from my sister, Relationships over Rules.
Something blue: Need new jeans
I'll be thinking of specific ways to keep these priorities in the next year.
What I'm looking forward to in 2019:
A big birthday: Mr. Wonderful turns 5-0! We hope to take a trip together to celebrate.
My firstborn will get his driving permit and begin the right of passage of learning to drive. Oh my.
My youngest will end elementary school and with it a whole season of my life seems to pass. I'll never be mother to littles again. Middle School seems so big.
Our oldest will be off on her own in a new city and I hope to take all three of mine for a visit.
