A new year.

I want to get down a bit of what I'm looking forward to in 2014. These aren't really resolutions, just my goals. I've also shrugged off my 101 in 1,001, quite a while ago for that matter, which I'm completely at peace with... I think it was too much for me, as a semi-type-A person, to keep track of efficiently. I realize that doesn't make the most sense {type-A not wanting to keep track of things} but I was setting up myself to spend way too much time each month looking at and tracking things. For me, this works much better; keeping goals broad and positive. Though I do acknowledge the value of measurable goals, for me right now, this feels good.

Anyway! I'm going to write out Dear Abby's New Year Resolution as I did last year and then some of those things I'm interested in for 2014. I really like this little ditty {I couldn't think of a better word}; it's concise and thoughtful and even if I read it once or twice a year, it brings good, grounding, and simplistic perspective.

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 Dear Abby's New Year Resolution; adapted by Pauline Phillips from the original credo of Alcoholics Anonymous.

 Just for today, I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once.

I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

Just for today, I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.

Just for today, I will accept what is, I will face reality. I will correct those things that I can correct and accept those I cannot.

Just for today, I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly, and not interrupt when someone else is talking. Just for today, I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.

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 For 2014...

1. Finish up my school year; for me this means teaching my classes while making some good plans in place for my maternity substitute.

2. Prepare ourselves, as much as we can, for welcoming another life into this world. A life that we are in charge of {what an odd concept for us}.

3. Prepare our home and car for this little one; crib {pack n' play, stroller, car seat, diapers, clothing...}.

4. Birth our child.

5. Keep our child alive; this one is very important!!

6. Make some strides towards finishing up my teaching credential.

7. Get ourselves moved when our lease runs out this summer {ugh} {be positive!}.

8. Continue to explore cooking our tried and true favorites as well as some new dishes.

9. Continue to get to know my husband and our marriage. I think this process is a never-ending experience for all married/committed couples. It's also an aspect of marriage I wasn't able to really know until we had been married for about a year and a half. It astounds me how amazing this relationship can be and how rewarding it is. It can only be more challenging --> rewarding as we continue to know each other and our relationship. Sorry to get sappy on you here! But it's true ♥.

10. Get back into running!

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As I mentioned earlier, I'm grateful for everything that 2013 brought us {highs and lows} and I'm thankful in advance for where we will find ourselves in 2014. Let the games begin!
xoxo, natty ♥