Next Step

This realization, that my relationships are everything to me, that my "resolutions" needed to reflect my priorities, has radically changed my "list." It really isn't a list at all, but more of a guide. Priorities for my life with specific goals for the next step. (For those homeschool parents who are familiar with Destinations*, it is a similar process.)

I still plan projects that add to my life's enjoyment (photos, crafts, sewing) and things to better myself (health, exercise, reading, something new to learn). Hubby and I plan the next step in our goals for the kids and our family (employment, house).

But the majority of my goals center around my relationships. Striving to be my husband's "helpmate" and not a hindrance to him, to keep our relationship strong. Creating an environment of nurture and learning for our children, where they are free to grow and develop and become the people God created them to be. Where I can focus on character and the uniqueness God created them with, in a world of young people trying so hard to be unique they end up lost in the crowd of everyone else trying to be unique.

A prayer list, mailing (yes, with a stamp and all) notes of encouragement and support, taking time to listen, pray and really care for the important people in my life. And this is not always easy! Sometimes my relationship with a V.I.P. is not where I want it. I have to give our relationship the room to be what we are both comfortable with it being. While keeping myself open and not taking things too personally (that one is really hard for me!).

The challenge with these goals, is that they are ongoing. The year does not end with neatly marked off items on a list. My year ends with lessons learned, opportunities to grow and new ideas to try. The challenge is that this "list" will never be "done". Relationships are constantly changing, hopefully growing and moving forward, but in my experience they do not stand still.

This is how I live without regret. Knowing that I have given of myself, taken steps to reconcile (though not always successful, at least I'm trying. I am not responsible for the other person.). I've admitted my own mistakes and sought to learn from them. I forgive myself and others, realizing that consequences cannot always be avoided but attempting to learn from those too. It is about being the best me (lets face it, I will never be a Martha Stewart), about becoming the person I was created to be, about inspiring, encouraging and mentoring.

So a blog fit into these goals because....


* Click here for information on Destinations and how to order. (yes, this is a shameless plug for my father-in-law, but it really is good!)