Another year has gone by and I can hardly believe that January is already half over! I have a hard time sitting still and reflecting over the past year, but this blog is going to make me do it. 🙂 I will share my reflections, add comments, and challenge you to consider things this year as we start 2012.

1. I started something new; this is it- a blog. I realized that if I don’t start, then it will never happen. What have you been wanting to do that you have not yet attempted? Why not make this the year you try.

2. I started to de-clutter my house. I am one of those kinds of home school moms that keeps curriculum, trade books, and educational magazines and resources thinking that I will use it at some time. I decided that if I have not even looked at the “stuff” over the past 3 years I am going to get rid of it. I took several boxes to the co-op I used to attend so that someone else can be blessed. How about you? What are you keeping that you can give away or throw away?

3. I found time to spend with my husband. I am incredibly busy (aren’t you?). I teach 11 different classes and find myself only seeing Dale when we get up in the morning and when he first gets home. I have really tried to get my schoolwork done by 7:00 a few days a week so I can spend evenings with him. It  has not been an easy thing to do, but I know that school will always be there and  lessons can always be improved, but I want to honor Dale and let him know I love him by spending time with him.  I heard a gal say she and her husband put the kids to bed early one night a week so they can have a date night, which is their downstairs. 🙂 Will you consider setting aside couple  time for you and your husband if not once a week, what about once a month? I think you will notice a difference in your home- you, your husband, your children and your attitude.

4. This was a hard one, but I have decided to cut down on my schedule for this upcoming year. I love everything I do, but I also realize that if I have to text Dale from another part of the house (which I have done) to say hello, I am doing too much. Take a look at your schedule. Are you doing too much? Is there something you can give you up this year?

5. I made “friend dates”. Time flies by, and before I know it, another month has passed and I still have not seen my girlfriends. Who have you not seen in a while? Can you catch a quick dessert for an evening? If not, try calling them and setting a timer so that you don’t feel guilty for catching up and leaving other duties. There are always dishes to wash and laundry to do, but friends are for a season and when all is said and done, people matter, NOT household duties. You can quote me on that!

6. I did some things for “me”. I bought a pair of running shoes with my Christmas money instead of spending it on things for the family or house. It was a splurge, but I am walking 6 days a week and felt that I needed to get fitted for a pair of shoes. After 2 failed attempts and having to go back each time to the running store, I finally found a pair that I like. What is that you want to do? Make the time or set aside a little money each week to pamper yourself. You deserve it!

Have a great year and remember to have fun and make time for yourself. You’ll be glad you did.