My Blessed Little Life

Happy New Year!  Another year has come and gone.  I hope 2010 was good to you, and that 2011 will be even better!  I am hoping for great things in the coming year.  I've been thinking a lot about the things in my control, as well as the things that aren't.  I am resolving to do my very best to manage those things in my control, and to learn to let go of all the rest of the things that I worry about far too much, most of which I have no control over anyway. My 2011 resolutions goals: (because everyone knows that resolutions never last) Pay more attention to my health: Drink more water. Take my vitamins. Exercise more...at least walk the dog because she is getting pudgy too. Be a better mom, wife, friend...do what I can for those I love. Organize my world a little better. Cook more at home and avoid the drive through windows. I'm sure there will be more that will be great goals for the new year, but I think this list is a good start. I wish all of you ...

Another year is ending. It seems everyone is reflecting back on this year; I've seen the usual best and worst lists for just about anything a person could think of in the last few days. 2010 has been a year of changes for me, most occurring in the last few weeks! I am hopeful that those changes will lead to bigger and better things in the coming year. I've never really been one to make New Year's Resolutions. At least, not one to stick with them once they are made. I think that I will make resolutions for 2011, but they will be things that I believe are attainable. I may even start small and build on them as the year goes on. I think I'd have more success that way! I wish you all a very Happy New Year and hope for only the best for you in 2011!

What a year! It has been a busy few months since school started in August. I started out the year as a Special Ed. Instructional Assistant, and am now working as an 8th Grade Social Studies teacher. While no one could have predicted the events that have led to this place, I am truly enjoying being back in the classroom. It has been a big transition full of changes for everyone though. It has meant that my free time is now consumed with planning and grading, instead of other activities, and I have learned quickly that finding a balance is going to be even more important than in the past. Between school, my master's classes, and the activities of three busy kids, I am worn out at the end of the day! That doesn't even include keeping a house in order and finding time to have some me time. However, I am very lucky to be able to be teaching again, and feel very blessed!

It's been a big week for me! After deciding I was going to work out more, I of course didn't. But that has all changed this week. I have recommitted to getting some sort of exercise routine in place. This week I have visited the gym three times. I know, it isn't much, but it is more than I have been doing lately. The weather is finally starting to warm up (although they predict a blizzard this weekend). It is nice to get back outside and just go for a walk with my kids. I am excited to get out in the yard and get things ready for summer. It is a small step right now, but I am hopeful that it is something I can continue with. I know that my coworkers are going to help me keep this new commitment to exercise too...no getting out of it, which is good for me! Enjoy your weekend, where ever you may be!

I've set a goal for myself...it's the only way that I am going to stick to this exercise thing. I'm challenging myself to virtually walk across the start of Missouri...river to river. I think that I will plan to walk from the Missouri River in KC to the Mississippi River in St. Louis. I'll post my progress as I go. According to Google Maps, it is 270 miles, so at a rate of 2 miles per day, it should take me around 135 days to complete the challenge. I'm glad to have a goal...anyone want to join me?

It's amazing that it is already January...and almost the end at that! A few months have passed since I've last logged in. My exercise plans kind of came to a halt when school started back up. I haven't done very well at balancing school, family AND exercise. Unfortunately, my body is feeling it right now, too. It is time to get back to it! I just joined a gym here in town, and with the help and encouragement of some coworkers, I am recommitting to a healthier lifestyle. I've worked out twice this week already, and it is only Tuesday! I need this to continue. If nothing else, it can be a little stress relief in my day! Today's exercise: treadmill, 30 minutes.