Resolutions. Reality. Recharge

Happy New Year. I'm not sure where 2008 went. In fact, I'm not sure where the month of December went, but I'm ushering in the New Year and a New Month with anticipation.

I've made a few goals for the new year. Nothing exciting or huge, just little incremental changes I'd like to see in myself. I'm being realistic about my time and commitment and about where I can make changes that will impact my life and those around me.

The most life affirming goal I've set is that I've signed up on Beth Moore's Living Prof Blog to memorize two scriptures a month. Not a lofty goal, but one that is manageable and less likely to fall by the wayside of kids, activities and other stuff. On the 1st and the 15th of each month, I'm going to start committing to memory a new verse. You choose the verse you want or copy Beth's suggestion. Here is a link to Beth's fabulous blog with more information. http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/

For this first memory verse, I'm going to go basic. Psalm 111: 2-3 NIV
2 Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them.
3 Glorious and majestic are his deeds,and his righteousness endures forever.

My second goal for myself is to listen first without responding. To not jump in with an answer and to be comfortable in the silence. I want to make sure I hear what people are saying and to try to then react with full knowledge, grace, and love. Too often, especially with my own family, I respond before I think. I react without giving it much thought or attention to the feelings of others. I think if I can accomplish this listen first goal, it will greatly impact all my relationships.

My third goal is to enjoy life more. In these tough economic times, with the world in turmoil, I know that God is still in control and His desire is not that we, His people, sit around and worry or toil over what's happening. He has given me a wonderful life; just as it is. I have a great husband, fantastic kids, opportunities to minister to others, and a healthy body and mind. Blessings abundant that I should be enjoying more.

To enjoy life more ....I'm going to tackle tougher craft projects: knitting, scrap booking, decorating on the cheap. I'm going to rest and rejuvenate on Sundays with my family instead of doing chores after church. I'll enjoy more books, less junk TV, more time with the kids and hubby and just enjoy my life.

So welcome 2009. I can't wait to see what God has in store for us this year. As my son would say, "Bring It On". ( I know that "Great are the works of the Lord" and I'm going to ponder them this year...excuse my paraphrase.)