Resolutions

res·o·lu·tion

[ rèzzə lsh'n ]

1. process of resolving: the process of resolving something such as a problem or dispute
2. decision: a firm decision to do something
3. determination: firmness of mind or purpose

Synonyms: decree, declaration, decision, motion, ruling

 

As I have always chosen, I don't exactly make New Year's Resolutions. Probably because I have things I want to accomplish all through the year and starting at the beginning of the year doesn't allow for something "new" in say, July. Last, last year I started running around December. Good thing I didn't wait until January 2012, because it may have just been too cold to start. I finished a handful of smaller races and then a half marathon in December. I "resolve" to continue running and hopefully complete another half this year. It isn't exactly a New Year's Resolution. Rather, just a continuum of a current goal, a resolution nonetheless, as it pertains to definition 3.

Another goal, as I wish to call it, is to limit the amount of time the TV is on in our home. We don't have cable or any such plethora of channels available, so we have a limited number of shows anyway. Even so, it is easy to put a quick 30 minute show on so I can get a few things done, take a shower, etc. The only problem is that 30 minutes goes by so quickly, it often turns into one more quick task, and another show is done. I have been more intentional lately to turn it off after one show, hopefully setting the example of active play, crafts, helping, outside, etc instead of the tube.

I am grateful to have a fresh beginning in this new year, however, I am even more grateful I have a fresh beginning each and every day with God. 

On the news yesterday, they were giving tips on how to keep a resolution going for longer than a few days or weeks. It reminded me that so many things in life are purposeful, intentional, and I have a part to play each and every day. The news clip advised to leave room for slip-ups because if you don't allow grace, you may mess up and never go on to accomplish the goal. I am so thankful I am allowed slip-ups in this crazy life! If I gave up on as many things as I often want to, I would go nowhere. I am glad I can start over tomorrow if today doesn't turn out exactly as I wanted. And, that being said, it doesn't even matter if it is January 1, June 6, or October 22. I can start each day fresh and new, with a RESOLUTION, a goal to live each day to the fullest. That's what I have been promised, Life and life to the full! (John 10:10)

Attitude of Gratitude

November or not, I have so much to be thankful for. Since it happens to be November, I am reminded of all God has blessed us with. Today, I am thankful for His provision. I am talking the kind of provision where He provides for ALL our needs. We have never had to skip a meal due to not having food. We have never had to go without clothes, and have seriously not bought clothes in such a long time because we have been blessed for both kids. We live so comfortably in our neat, cozy little city where everything is just as it should be. We have good health and don't have many "down" days in our family. So what happens when something strikes you that it stirs everything up inside and you can't do anything but pray and believe God to be who He is and the God who heals and provides? I choose an attitude of gratitude.
Last weekend, the stomach bug hit our home, and 3/4 of our family was down. Not to mention, Mr. Dad took on roll of caregiver for a sick wife and 2 sick kids after working for 12 hours, minus sleep. Thankfully, what seemed a dreadful day passed rather quickly and things were looking up. Roll forward one day to waking up, everyone slept all night, no more vomiting, ready for a great day. We had breakfast, played, ate a snack, then headed outside. What started as a fun, healthy morning turned into little man having some kind of seizure, calling an ambulance and spending the rest of the day in the ER. Nothing was really confirmed except the fear that had already crept its way into my head. I have never been more scared in all my life.
I realized I had a lot to be grateful for, even in the midst of such a scary time. When I heard nothing, the sound of your child crying again brings a huge sense of relief. I am grateful we were all home together and our errands hadn't carried us out the door quite yet. I am thankful all the tests completed at the hospital came back normal. I am thankful for a healthy boy. I kissed him a bunch of extra times before putting him in bed that night, whispering my gratitude as a quiet prayer.
We have had other tests to rule out anything serious, but I serve a God of power, and no matter the outcome, He is bigger, stronger and will always take care of us. As the bills come in, I am grateful for His provision. He always takes care of those who fear Him. He is our Healer, as he proved by taking care of Micah through it all. I trust Him with ALL my heart! My attitude says gratitude!

Sand and Sun

Who doesn't love a trip to the beach? Sandy shores? Lapping waves? Time by the pool? Oh, yes, I do!! We took a little trip down to the beach last week to celebrate Chad's graduation, Micah's birthday, and our anniversary. It is supposed to be a yearly trip, although we skipped last year since Micah was so young. Claire and Micah both had a great time! Chad's family came too, so we stayed in a condo to have some more space. We spent a lot of time on the beach as well as at the pool. It's funny how Claire was a little intimidated at first but was the last to want to go in to call it a day. She swam herself out every chance she got. It was so nice to be able to relax and be away from our normal daily activities. I am so thankful our kids traveled well and enjoyed our time away!

A Happy Grad

Yay for Chad!! After about 2 years of classes, twice a week for about 5 hours each, he is DONE!! Yes, done! I am so proud of him! It was definitely a balancing act to keep up with school, work, church, having a family, homework, and, oh yes, sleep!

Graduation was a nice ceremony, and being able to think about having Chad home a little more is a bit refreshing. It's amazing how quickly time goes, so looking back now, it wasn't so bad. I am thankful he was able to get his Master's degree, keep impeccable grades and now look forward to the future. I love you and am proud of you!

Avalanche

I pretty much love this song. I remember a girl sang it at the end of service one week at church. It was moving to me then. I got the CD from the library and can't get enough of it...especially this song. Really, it just speaks of God's amazing love and grace. I want more of Him every day! This song says "Take my life, take all that I am. With all that I am, I will love you. Take my heart, take all that I have. Jesus, how I adore you." I owe Him so much, but he just wants me to love Him. Hillsong United

Pictures speak a thousand words...

Cutie Pies

We have had so much fun being outside lately. I have been trying to snap pictures when we are out and about to have something to remember our outings. Claire has always loved to swing, and it seems Micah enjoys it too. I can't get enough of my two cutie pies. They are so fun, silly, smiley, sometimes sassy, and the best of it all!

My loves...