My '09 Resolutions

Well, after a week of pondering I think I have my New Years Resolutions...

1. To live simply. I need to shed away the excess in my life. I have already begun by thoroughly cleaning out my kitchen and pantry. Who needs 9 spatulas? I need to continue removing the unnecessary, so, that I can appreciate what is truly valuable to me.

2. To run. I would like to continue running. I'd like to set dates for a few 5K races throughout the year to keep myself motivated and challenged.

3. To cook. I'd like my family to sit down all together for dinner at least three days during the week. We are so often eating in shifts! I will often make a meal that will be eaten by the early shift and warmed for the late shift. If we all have to eat at 4:30 to be together, so be it!

4. To save. Yes, I have been watching Oprah's Live Your Best Life Week. Fortunately, we are not burdened with any credit card debt or struggling, as so many are, with upside down home loans. I feel extremely fortunate to not be in a horrible situation with this economic crisis...YET! I definitely do not have 8 months of income saved up! If one of us was to loose our jobs, they are now estimating it takes 8 months or more to acquire a new one! Time to start saving!

5. To make the most of this time. I am horrified that Cameron is starting high school next year and that both boys will be growing up and moving on before I know it! I am proud of my relationships with both Cameron and Trevor. Both boys still enjoy spending time with us and are open and honest in sharing their life experiences. (I know that will change at some point) They are a mother's dream! I want to be sure to cherish this time with them!

6. To be healthy. As a dear friend pointed out, I have been getting sick a lot lately! It has been a stressful year and I think it is starting to catch up with me. I need to take my new WONDERFUL vitamins regularly, be sure I am eating well, and finally lose these extra 10 pounds once and for all!