New Year's Resolutions written

They seem kinda weak this time around but I finally did come up with something. As I was reflecting on things I wanted to change/improve upon I kept being reminded of things that I am thankful for. So let me begin with those, in no particular order:

1. A warm, cozy house. Despite the fact that we want to sell and get something a little bigger with 4 bedrooms (so the boys can have their own room) and a separate room for the kids to hang out in (and play Rock Band, drums, and a place to put all the school stuff, etc) I am grateful for the home we DO have with our good neighbors. It could be worse...
2. Michael's job. In this season of lay-offs Michael has a good job and he really enjoys what he does. What else can one ask for?? Do what you like and like what you do.
3. Health. After last year's cancer scare we are not taking our health for granted. Despite feeling a bit older (needing a little help reading from glasses, not as flexible as we used to be, reoccuring plantar fascitis that keeps me from running) we are still very healthy and able to do a lot! So thankful for that!
4. Family. Having our extended family so close -- my brother and parents right down the road, Michael's parents and sister in the same town, seeing Michael's twin brother and older brother at holidays. We rejoice in having a close, tight-knit family where my kids can know their cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents.
5. Homeschooling. After losing my oldest to private school this year, I hold onto the priviledge of homeschooling my younger two that much closer to my heart. I've been reveling in their hugs and kisses, reading aloud, going out during school hours for a treat, and scheduling field trips. I love being so involved in their lives and learning right along with them!

So after counting my blessings, here are those things I will endeavor to improve this year:

Physical:
Continue weight loss. After reaching an all-time non-pregnancy high at the beginning of last year I have lost about 15 lbs with another 5-10 to go.
Continue exercise. After joining the YMCA this summer I have started weight lifting, pilates, yoga and other exercise classes. I had been walking then started running but in Nov. my plantar fascitis came back with a vengeance. Consequently I had to find other ways to be physical. I will contiue doing whatever it takes.

Spiritual:
Read 4 books - one per quarter. I wll continue to grow mentally in the spiritual dept by reading books (other than the Bible, which is a given). For sure I want to read The Jesus of Suburbia, and Out of the Salt Shaker along with my FP4H bible studies and my Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life devotional. I will leave the other two open for now.
Serve the poor. Michael has felt the need to put our faith into action by serving those less fortunate than us. I will join him in that.

Personal:
Knit a sweater. My goal last year was to knit something other than a scarf and I failed. This year I have started a sweater (which I had begun last year but ended up ripping out 3 times!!!) and plan to continue until completion!!!!
Blog more. I began blogging last year and although I enjoyed it I never made the time. I resolve to do more of that this year.

And that's it! Feel free to ask me how I'm doing! I love accountability and work well when I'm feeling guilty :)