New Year's Resolution

I have never been good at New Year's Resolutions. They kind of put a ton of pressure on you to fulfill something society tells you that you won't accomplish. Or at least give up on by Valentine's Day! People want to quit smoking, lose weight, fix themselves. Whatever. I don't mean to be pessimistic, but I think this is a waste of great energy! What I mean is, I decided about I don't know 5 years ago to make a different kind of New Year's resolution. I decided to look for the positive in every situation. Even the bad ones. Believe me, this isn't the easiest thing to do! But, I have to say that it's been one of the most fulfilling resolutions I've ever made--for myself and for the people around me. Don't get me wrong, I'm not perfect, but I do try to do it intentionally every day. And, you'd be surprised, as I was what an impact it's had on my life! Focusing on the slightest positive really has helped to make some bad situations not seem quite so bad. Sometimes, you don't always see the positive right away, but eventually you will. I'll give you some examples....I have had some health issues which were less than great; but, the positive thing is that after getting a 2nd opinion and tests, I located a serious hormone issue and was able to get it fixed. For over a year now, I have felt great! It's amazing! Our family went through a major upheaval with a divorce to loved ones close to us. It was devasating at first. But, the positive is the wonderful relationship I have with my fabulous cousin, Tracy & her adorable family. We love them so much and have so much fun when we're together! Don't get me wrong, there are still days that aren't great, but at least I try. John told me one time how he loved this change in me. That was the best compliment! I love the change in myself as well!

This year, I've decided to make a resolution, but not something that I can't stick to. I have set up an intentional scrapbooking schedule for the entire year of 2009. I feel that it's important to chronicle the events in our lives. I love to scrapbook, and I want to leave a legacy for my children, their children, and generations to come. I want my life to show that it meant something. Even if it's only to the 5 of us. I love my family so much, and in 2009 I am dedicating at least one day every month to preserve these wonderful memories and events that make up our lives. I wish I had some of those memories from when I was a child. So, I am going to do this for me and my family this year. Tonight, I got out my calendar and wrote IN PEN a date on each month of 2009 beginning in January for my scrapping days. I am so excited that I finally did this! I can't wait to get started! Good luck to all of you who are contemplating resolutions. May you make 'em, NOT break 'em and be sure to overtake 'em. Here's to rooting each other on to better, healthier, happier, selves! Best Wishes to you and yours in the coming year. Hope Everything is FINE in 2009!