2009 Will Be Mighty Fine

New Year's is ALMOST my favorite holiday, second only Christmas. And I think it's because I relish the idea of a totally fresh start. My curiousity is invigorrated by the possibilities that lay in wait for the new year and I find myself with renewed desire to grow, learn, change and explore who I am, and more importantly, who I want to be.

So I'm sharing my New Year's resolutions again with you this year in hopes that as I do my quarterly check-ins and read your comments and opinions, it will keep that enthusiasm for 2009 rolling along. I'm changing it up a bit, though. Instead of having specific goals that have finite requirements, I wanted to set my aspirations towards becoming more of the person I want to be. So these are all "Be" Resolutions (with a big thank you to President Hinkley, who has inspired me so much with his "Be"s.)


1 - Be In The Moment

While I refuse to worry much about the future, I definitely struggle with wallowing in the past. Regrets haunt me night and day (hence the trouble sleeping and consequent trouble getting up early), often clouding my thoughts so much that I don't enjoy the present. My children are growing, my family is changing, I am aging with each passing day and I think the key to feeling comfortable with the passage of time is in the noting of it. I'm sad to admit that there are 2 years of my life that I hardly have any memory of. I hope that by striving to enjoy the here and now I will be able to let go of the past and look forward to the future.

2 - Be Daring

So often I find myself often saying things like "Someday I'd like to try windsurfing" or "Someday I'm gonna dye bright purple streaks in my hair". And then I just smile and carry on with my pedestrian existence. This year there will be no more excuses for not seizing each opportunity that lies before me - and going after a few. I will be bold, brave, fearless!!! Or maybe I'll just try at least one new thing a month. Baby steps, right?


2 - Be Patient

Which means I'll probably have to cut my Coke intake, at least before I drive or play with my kids. For reals, though, I've rarely thought of myself as an impatient person until recently. I've begun to notice that I am hurrying through my days with a jittery (though fairly friendly) intolerance for anyone who slows me down. My children, the phone, the other drivers on the road...I'm always encouraging those around me to pick up the pace, instead of just easing up and going with the flow. This year I will slow myself. And I will enjoy the relaxing passage of time with the people I share the world with. Especially my children. No more rushing those sweet little things.


4 - Be Dependable

This one's gonna be the toughest, I already know. I have the best of intentions, and the worst follow-thru. Despite the fact that my heart is usually in the right place, my mind is never where it's supposed to be and I end up forgetful, flakey, and notoriously late. I used to this the word "Dependable" was another way of saying "Boring". But lately I'm realizing that my actions come off as quite unthoughtful to the people who rightfully expect me to do what I say I'm going to do. I want to be someone who can be counted on. It's part of being a good friend, a good daughter, a good wife and a good person.


Alright peeps, there they are. My 4 resolutions for making 2009 Mighty Fine. If you've got any suggestions that will help me stick to my guns, I'd love to hear 'em.

If not, at least tell me what you're resolutions are for this year!