GOALS FOR 2009...

I am not a big fan of New Year resolutions, although I do think they are important to have. I like to think of them more like goals for the new year. There is a quote, from my friend Raul, that is written on the wall of my garage. It simple states: "A vision, without a plan, is only a dream." I believe that goals should also come with an action plan. So this year, I am going to set goals, and include steps to help me reach those goals. If I write these down, maybe, just maybe, I will follow through with them. Wish me luck!


I WILL BE THANKFUL FOR WHAT I HAVE
The man that works in the parking ticket booth at my gym greets everyone, everyday, with a smile, a series of warm greetings, and end with a "God bless you!" He is always upbeat, friendly, and treats you like you are the most special person in the parking lot. Gee, how neat it must be to be so happy, positive, and take that much pride in what you do. I am going to try to do that this year... be the best educator I can be!

I have a dear friend that has been battling cancer for awhile. I am amazed at how courageous and proactive she is. It's been a long and difficult battle, but she fights it head on with such determination and grace. I am in awe by her spirit. She inspires me and reminds me that all the little stuff we complain about just doesn't matter.

I will cherish the family and friends in my life by making extra efforts to keep in touch with them (via visits, lunches, phone calls, text messages, email, facebook, cards, and letters).

I will appreciate all that I have and not wish for material things that just don't matter; although I will allow myself to dream about winning the lottery.

I will not complain about my hair, weight, and wardrobe because none of that matters because I have my health.

I WILL IMPROVE MY PARENTING SKILLS

I have a beautiful, healthy, wonderful, active, curious, 8 year old boy. I want to be the best parent I can be.

I will continue to follow up (and through) with my parenting classes and listen to what the behavior therapist suggest I work on...
-I am the mommy, I am the mommy, I am the mommy...

I will not raise my voice no matter how loud and obnoxious my son gets.... I am the mommy, I am the mommy...
I will wait 5 seconds before I respond to disrespectful acts/behavior displayed by an 8 year old
I will be more patient during _________ time and remember that he has come a long way in 4 years.
I will hug, kiss, and say I love you at the times when I want to do the opposite.
I will remember that I AM THE MOMMY...

I WILL TAKE CARE OF MYSELF

I will not know Letterman's Top 10 List for at least 3 nights a week.
I will spend 2 hours each week doing something just for me.
I will choose projects that I am most passionate about and pass on projects that others can do.
I will get a mani/pedicure once a month.
I will exercise at least 3 days per week (on average).
I will drink more water and eat less chili cheese fries.
I will not think that I have to eat cake for every birthday that comes around.
I will take vitamins and go in for a yearly mammogram.

I WILL DO SOMETHING NEW AND IMPROVE SOMETHING OLD

I will try one thing I haven't tried before.
I will work on my writing and write more.

I WILL WORK ON BEING MORE POSITIVE

I will remember that there is something good about everyone.
I will learn something for each challenge and problem that I face.

Happy New Year!