I love finding smart stuff. After a year that was emotionally and physically exhausting, this idea gave me an opportunity to look back and see what changes were made that were good for me and I want to keep up - part of my life menu. Validation for what I'm doing right ...
NON GOAL | You've worked really hard to have an open, honest and encouraging relationship with all four kids (and their friends). Continue to be mindful and keep it up.
NON GOAL | You can open the bills and pay them. It still makes you a bit sick to your stomach, but you can do this. Forget about the demons of the past. You are now fully in charge. Onward.
NON GOAL | You have finally taken charge of your health. Take that thyroid pill each morning but be sure to follow up with those blood tests with the doctor. After all, you changed doctors for a reason, go to her, she's good.
NON GOAL | Great job doing things that scare you! It was hard, but so worth it. Keep doing things that scare you and take those risks.
NON GOAL | So impressed that you, an avowed non-cook, have made 20 out of 21 meals each week from scratch. Keep looking forward to those pizza Sunday afternoons!
NON GOAL | As much as it annoys you, keep harassing CWTB-X to stay in contact with his kids. You might never want to see him again, but they need to foster a relationship.
NON GOAL | Remember the look on Claire's face when you agreed she could (finally) go back to play house league baseball? Keep saying "yes" as much as possible. You've learned the lesson that "no" is just lazy, antisocial and selfish - so keep up the positivity and engage!
NON GOAL | Hasn't it been great to connect with your friends, regularly? Hasn't it been wonderful to be able to have non-censored, kind and complete conversations? Keep going. You've missed a few friends, time to catch up with more. And, while your at it, cultivate some new friendships along the way.
NON GOAL | You have such a passion for writing. Keep writing.
Love me some validation.
Now, to keep it real. There is still a lot more that has to be done!
GOAL | Keep doing the research and decide on the new vehicle. Then start the negotiations. Lease on the Highlander is up in March!
GOAL | Put together a comprehensive calendar that includes not only the activities for everyone, but how you're going to manage to feed everyone with the crazy upcoming schedule. Make it as simple and modifiable as possible.
GOAL | WALK. Every day, follow the routes you've put on dailymile. The weather is NO EXCUSE. You can always walk in the mall in the morning if it's really cold or wet. Maybe this year the blue hairs won't lap you.
GOAL | You've chosen to participate in three rigorous projects for this year: Move More, Eat Well; Project Life and One Little Word. DON'T STOP. You chose these for a reason. Do them.
GOAL | Get the analysis done and the orders placed for the College Shop. Chose some new and fun "spirit wear" going forward. Make a product and merchandising plan for next year! Have the meetings with the right people and iron out a comprehensive plan.
GOAL | Nail down that project you want to do with RJC. It will be good - for both of you.
GOAL | Write up a complete list of things that need to be DONE, PURCHASED and REPLACED in the house. Then budget and execute the plan.
GOAL | Read! If you want to be a good writer you have to be a good reader. Get book recommendations and enjoy.
GOAL | Unpack the boxes. There are 23 left. Empty them. Seriously.
GOAL | Eat breakfast. Every morning.
Ah, character building. It's not just for our children :)