Yes!

In less than a week I will turn 29 years old. 30 has always felt far, far away. It's not. I may still feel like I'm 22 years old, but there's no denying-no matter how many adult responsibilities I pass along to Chad (oil changes, budget balancing, taxes, mortgage, to name a few)-I'm a full-fledged adult 

Blame it on getting older or recently entering motherhood, but I now have a desire to say "yes" to any dream and opportunity that presents itself before doubt creeps in and talks me out of it. Don't get me wrong, I still strive to maintain boundaries and deliver strong "no"s to things that take without giving back or may infringe too much on family time. Rather I will say "yes" to taking chances on things that may make me uncomfortable but ultimately bring along the promise of a more enriching life.

Already...

Saying "yes" has allowed me to forget about the spit up on my shirt, jeans that don't fit, and sink full of dirty dishes and instead smile and laugh more while fellowshipping with friends. Saying "yes" has allowed me to take one step closer to a dream while building confidence and witnessing Chad's love for me as shown through his unwavering encouragement. 

Yes, 2014, I'm ready for you.

Two Month Old Nora

Our baby girl is two months old today! I kissed her bare bulging belly tonight and thanked the Lord that she is healthy and strong. Her smiles are still rare, but more frequent, and she has much to say. She loves finding the picture frames on nearby walls (yeah, we can't figure that one out either), and is quickly becoming best buds with Koda, the lazy Shiba Inu pup. Her legs are slowly getting more and more plump (much to mom's delight), and we celebrate the fact that she is a big ole' sleepy head (8-9 hour stretches at night-amen!). 

She is loved.

Hello there, 2014

A blogger I follow is embarking on a challenge to make a list of 101 things she aims to accomplish in 1001 days. Her ambition inspired me to make some real goals at which I truly desire to succeed. But let's be real - as a new mom returning to work in just three weeks, I'm likely to lose my way somewhere between today and 1001 days from now.  So, here is my (really) scaled back version for 2014 - 10 goals for the new year. I'm hoping that by sharing these with you I will have some additional accountability than just my own conscience. Yes, that means call me out!

1. Spend more time in the Lord's Word.

2. Write in my journal at least two times a week. Focus on recording things I learn about the Lord - His character and promises, myself, motherhood, and any moments from the new year that I don't want to forget.

3. Write in Nora's journal (a place for me to write her love letters) at least two times a week. 

4. Return to my pre-pregnancy weight by incorporating clean, healthy eating and regular exercise as facets of my everyday lifestyle. The sooner the better! Can I get an amen?

5. Work out three times a week. I'm going to try to run a familiar route in my neighborhood that totals two miles, but a nice walk around the block will do. Notice the wiggle room behind the intentionally vague phrase "work out".

6. Replace one grocery list item with a healthier, organic option each time I grocery shop.

7. Once I figure out my afternoon/evening routine when I return to work, set an exact time for when I "turn off" work - no checking email, grading, lesson planning -  to spend quality time with Chad and Nora.

8. Go on more dates with Chad! I want to go on one new date (something we've never done together) each month. Suggestions welcome, especially free ones!

9. Spend more face time with friends. Make a "date" with one friend each month to just enjoy her.

10. This came at the suggestion of Chad. As I was trying to be cute - 14 goals for 2014 - he suggested I scale back. This is embarrassing, but there are days when I get so caught up with doing things I feel are so important that I forget to eat! Who does that? I love food! There are also the days - more recently - when I don't get out of pajamas. This is normal, right? So, at Chad's urging, this list includes just 10 goals, the last of which is to do one thing for me each month. Some ideas I have are to actually make things I pin on Pinterest, read a non-teaching book, get a mani/pedi, take an afternoon to wander the aisles at the Depot... you get the idea.

What lies ahead for you in 2014?