It's that time again...

It is 2011 and we have made it through the first official full week! Here is the update on us...

We celebrated New Years Eve with some friends that were off to start a new adventure in the Land of Oz, completely missed the kiss at midnight ritual due to our interest in watching a movie titled "Devil", but the following day we did manage to eat our black eyed peas for luck and my stand in substitute of spinach for cash.

My husband had asked me on the 1st if I had any resolutions. I was actually in the middle of contemplating them at that time. Then it hit me I am not calling them resolutions this year because for what ever reason, that tends to be an automatic shut off valve for most.

This year, I have goals. Some are material in nature, but as many who know me would expect, many are deep and personal soul searching hopes.

My goal list:

1. My husband and I plan to get the acre we bought a couple of years ago paid off this year. This will take some budgeting and self control.

2. Budget better... One of the places that I have found that I am utilizing for inspiration is:

 

3. Practice self control when shopping. Super sale items only; if you don't love it, don't buy it; if it is a high priced item that is not needed immediately, sleep on it; etc.

4. Volunteer in my community. I am looking to share my time with a humane society.

Now is where I get personal. I don't always like the person in the mirror. I am a giving person, and I would do just about anything for a friend, but at times, I fall below my own standards. That being said, here are my soul goals...

5. Be a stronger personality and stand up for what I believe more often. I recognize that standing quietly by while someone does something I don't agree with is the same as going along with them in a sense.

6. Be more accepting, compassionate, and open. Sometimes our personal feelings on things can get in the way of understanding how someone else may deal differently with something than we would. I want to get to a place where I can be a better friend by listening more and understanding where my friends are at in these types of situations.

This is a short list of goals I know, but they are the types of goals that when completed they will make a huge impact on my life and those around me. A new year usually means striving for a new you, and I can't think of anywhere I'd rather start than my soul...

May the blessings abound in 2011!