Thoughts for 2009

I can't say I'm sad to see 2008 go. It was a hard year, and I'm happy to be starting over with a new and clean slate.

I don't "do" resolutions - because I never keep them and end up feeling more guilty about not keeping them than not following through with what the resolution was to begin with. So for 2009, I've got some things I need to work on...

To be a better wife - to be more understanding of my husband's needs and fears and stubborness that is preventing him from taking the steps necessary to move us to Seattle. Yes, I feel like I've made the sacrifices thus far by being so far away from home - but it was my decision to make eight years ago...

To be a better mom - to be more understanding that time in a four year old girl's world just doesn't exist like it does in my world - to be more patient that the things I think are asinine are indeed of vital importance to my children.

To stop and PLAY more with my kids (see above). I feel like all I do is cook and clean and wash and fold and tell my children 'no' or 'not now' or 'later - we'll (insert activity here) later' - and I'm worried that they'll grow up and miss their childhood. I want to be a part of that childhood - I want to play with them and laugh with them and be a part of their giggles and laughter.

To be more frugal with our finances - and not get caught up in the excesses that we don't need.

To find our church 'home.' Our children are in desperate need of a church home - as are D and I - and we need to find it. We need to be strong in our faith and need that foundation - and finding it needs to be a priority.

To focus on the friends in my life who matter - and stop trying to keep friendships alive with those who clearly aren't worth the effort.

To be a better daughter - to try to support my mom in all that she's doing to try to recover. As scary as it is - I need to face the challenges with her - even if I'm 3,000 miles away from her.

To try to be healthy - for this baby living within me that we will welcome in April/May - and to be healthy for me.

To find time for myself - for Kristen - someone who I miss.