Every year I make New Year's Resolutions, and every year it's the same old story... I either don't even touch them, or I make a small dent and then give up. I'm not beating myself up about it, because I'm guessing that's what happens to almost everyone! The past few days I've been thinking, though- I think I've actually succeeded in a couple of things (so far...I mean, we're a month into it, people). Let's review a few of mine:
1.Buy more handmade/shop local: I get a 10/10 on this one. Let's just say my Etsy shop supports my Etsy habit. Ok, that's not entirely true, but I have made several purchases from some wonderful Etsy shops, as well as trying out new local restaurants for our date nights, etc. At this point, I feel pretty good about this one.
2.Exercise. Like, period. Like, get off my bum and do something (besides chase after my boys all day, which should count!) So...yeah. I "danced" one morning for about 20 mins (jumping around in my dining room to fun music). My boys were like, "What the heck is Mom doing?" I didn't even sweat, but I got hot enough to take off my hoodie. FAIL. I really need to get back on this. When it's warm, I run and walk almost every day, but the cold just does me in. I also struggle with finding the right time to exercise. I need a good video or something. Open for suggestions, friends.
3.Work harder at my Etsy business. Yes. I have been. And it's been really good. I've had the best sales of any month so far. Still learning to balance this and being a Mom and wife, etc. etc. I'm happy with where I'm at. It's a creative outlet for me and I really enjoy it. I never want to get so stressed out with it, that it takes away from my most important job. So yeah, pretty happy with that one.
4.Start a new blog. Done and done. Now, just need to learn how to navigate it and all that jazz. Oh, and also, keep up with it. I really am going to try, I promise!
5.PLAY with my boys more. SIGH. Tears. Guilt. This is a huge battle for me, and I think I have a whole other blog post already lined up in my head revolving around this (and other things). First of all, let me say, that it has been better. I have left projects I'm working on to go play with my boys. I've taken more time to tickle and laugh and enjoy them, but like many Moms, I always feel like I could be doing more. And I totally have those super selfish days, as well, where I WAS on my phone way to much and too preoccupied bee bopping around the house to really take time and love on my boys. I beat myself up, but I give myself grace, as well. I think I'm probably the hardest on myself in this area, but I also know I want to be better at giving selflessly of my time and energy, especially to my family.
6.Last one: TRUST GOD MORE. I'm learning...I'm learning. I have great days, and I have horrible days, but I'm moving forward. Again, a whole other blog post, and there will be many on this, I'm sure of it. One thing I've been chewing on the past few days: Why is it SO hard to just let go...to let go of the control and let God work? It's such a simple act if you think about it, but so much harder to put into play.
I'm a work in progress, and I have to accept God's grace for me everyday. I'm thankful that it never runs out on me.