My "To Do" List

In just a little less than 8 hours, 2007 will come to a close. Another year has passed, and I find myself thinking today "What will I do differently in 2008?". What is it that I missed out on? What did I do right? What do I need to do better? What can I do without?

I don't really believe in new year's resolutions. But, I do believe in goals. I think it's important that we have a plan for ourselves. I haven't always been good at that, but I think I am getting better at it. At least, I hope I am. Anyway... Jeff and I have been talking about some goals that we want to accomplish for ourselves and our family this year. I thought I might share a few here.

1. Memorize more scripture. There is really no excuse for me not to do this. I just don't make it a priority like I should.

2. Read no less than 36 books this year. That's only 3 a month, and I should be able to do this easily. Actually, most years, I have done this without even thinking about it. But lately, I have found myself wasting time watching tv instead of reading. I have only completed 2 books in the past 2 months, and for those of you who know me well, you know that is strange! I miss the books. So, if you have anything you would recommend, send it my way. I will be reading a lot in 2008.

3. I will run a 5k in 2008. I know that's not a long distance for you marathon runners out there. But I hate to run. I detest it! This isn't about a fun time for me. It's about making a statement that my health is important to me, and if I can run a 5k, I will have made progress in my health. Bryan says he will run with me too, so that's a bonus!

4. Stop complaining that I "have" to go to work. This is serious for me. You see, I don't really look at my work as a job, but a calling. I know that sounds hinky to some of you, but it's true. I need to change the way I talk about my work sometimes. I have become negative in the past few months, perhaps because of some changes in my job. But.. it's still a good job, and I am thankful for the opportunity to do it.

5. Have more friends in our home. I am sometimes reluctant to do this because I think I can't cook well enough or my house isn't clean enough or whatever. Truth is, my friends don't love me or my family for my cooking or for how well I can keep the house. I want to value time with friends and family, and that begins at home. This year, I pledge to open my home more to friends.

6. Play more games with my family. Jeff, Bryan and I enjoy sitting at the table playing Rummy, and this year, I intend to more of that. We learn so much about each other at the table, and I love that time together. This year, I want to sit together more, along with other friends. This will be easier for us since most of our money will be going towards the adoption of our daughter. Games at home are free, so I imagine we will do a lot of that.

7. This year, I will finally decorate a little girl's room in our home. I realize that our girl may not physically be with us in 2008 (adoption processes are long), but my prayer is that we at least know who she is in this year, and can start planning specifically for her to be here. I can hardly wait to paint something pink! Jeff and Bryan- you can get ready for a trip to the Cabbage Patch Factory!!!!!! (that's a little inside joke there)

8. Go on more dates with Jeff. Let me just tell ya- I have one HECK of a husband, and after 14 years of marriage, I STILL love going on dates with him. This year, we will take dance lessons (FOR REAL), and I vow to take him out more- alone. I value every minute that we can get together, and I want to make that more of a priority this year.

There are many many more that I could share, but they are more personal and I can't tell all of my secrets! What are your goals for 2008?? if you haven't made any, I encourage you to do so.
There's still a few hours left for ya!