Well, Hello 2014!!

                     

My intent after ringing in the new year, last night, was to get a family photo.  A picture of all of us together.  The last picture of 2013.  But, I quickly realized that it's impossible to get three children, a man that hates pictures, and me all together for a photo when there isn't anyone left to actually take the photo.  So, I did the next best thing and took selfies with each of my kiddos and Hubby.

All of these pictures were taken right before the ball dropped...so close enough to New Year.

We had such a fun time last night.  Just the five of us, at home, enjoying each other's company.  We played games, we laughed, we ate, we drank, and it was a fantastic way to start our new year together.  As a family.  I realized I don't need loud music, tipsy people, and partying to have a good time.  I had a fantastic time with what was taking place in my living room.  And I'm a firm believer in starting the year as I mean to go on... so I started out with having a good time with the people I love.

I've really been going back and forth with whether or not to make resolutions this year.  I mean, I wrote my not-as-funny-as-they-were-supposed-to-be-but-completely-realistic resolutions a few days ago, and when I wrote them I had every intention of writing some deeper resolutions.  

I think it would feel kinda weird for me not to write some resolutions... because it's a part of my tradition.  Even though I know that 90% (if not more) of them will fall to the wayside at some point or another throughout the year.  

The way I look at it, though, is writing out my resolutions is a way of starting the year off with good intentions.  No, I might not keep to those good intentions, but I don't ever recall a new year where I look back at resolutions I made the year before and feel like my whole world has fallen apart because I didn't do everything I had intended.  In fact, I realize that I still had a pretty darned good year and would have made some of the awesome stuff that happened a part of my resolutions...had I known that stuff would happen.

In fact, if I look at last year's resolutions... 

On December 31st, 2012 I wrote the following resolutions:

Lose Weight

Make the most of my time

Become more financially responsible

Create more memories and traditions

Be happy!

There were specific bullet points added to each resolution, that didn't necessarily get checked off the list... but, if I look at the main resolutions....

In 2013, I did lose weight.  And then gained some back.  And then lost a bunch.  Then gained some of that back.  Then lost a few pounds more.  But...there was definitely weight lost throughout the year.

I made the most of my time.  I spent a good deal of time enjoying myself, spending time with the kids, having family get-togethers, going to sporting events, etc.  I'm still the worst when it comes to procrastination, but everything that needed taking care of was taken care of, and I was never in a situation where I had wasted time and not done what I needed to do.

I definitely became more financially responsible in 2013...kinda had to when we bought OUR NEW HOUSE!!  Not sure why that wasn't a resolution, but it fits nicely with this one.  Buying a house is a very grown up thing to do, and has a tight hold on the budget.  So, in order to make it work, we really had to be more financially responsible.  Still have to be, really.

I can definitely say I created more memories and traditions.  We started some new traditions during the summer when the pool was all cleaned out and ready to go.  I have a feeling that we'll do the same thing this summer.  I made some great memories with the kids going to their games...Peanut with volleyball and Butter with football.  Butter even had his first major sporting injury.  Jelly and I went to the theater and saw our first live production together.  Peanut and I went to see a college team play volleyball.  I took Peanut and Butter to homecoming.  Lots of great memories, and a few new traditions?  Check!

And I can definitely, without a doubt say that I was truly happy last year.  WAY more than I wasn't.  In fact, I would say more happy than I've been years prior.  We accomplished so much this past year that has truly made us all happy.  The house was a big motivator for that, but also with work and school and family...there has been a ton of happiness.

So, looking at that, I actually accomplished ALL of my resolutions.  I guess making them to be broken isn't always the way it plays out.  Huh?

I guess it's time I now move on to the 2014 resolutions.  What do I want to focus on this year?  

1.  Well, it just wouldn't be right if I didn't start out with lose weight.  

For as many years as I can remember, this has been my number one resolution.  It probably will be for the rest of my life.  I am convinced that one year, I will actually succeed in losing the weight I want to lose... but each year after that will have to include keeping it off.  In terms of MAJOR accomplishments, I think this might be the year where my weight might get some limelight.  I mean, a few years ago, stress from college was the reason I couldn't lose weight.  The year after, stress from not being able to find a job.  The year after, stress from getting a new job and wanting to buy a new house.  This past year, I got the new house, but that was pretty stressful.  This year, thinking forward, I think the only stress I should be enduring is the stress of losing the freakin' weight and making it stay off!  No life altering plans for this upcoming year, so what will my excuse be if I don't succeed... or do a lot freakin' better this year?

2. Exercise, exercise, exercise.

I know one of the main reasons I don't lose enough weight is because of my lack of exercise.  I'm one of those people that gets all excited about something, and the novelty soon wears off.  A few years ago, I got all crazy excited about a boot camp I did.  That lead to a love for running.  Before I knew it, I was participating in 5K races.  And wouldn't you know, that year I lost 80lbs!!  I tend to enjoy exercising when I'm actually doing it, but it's the getting to the part where I'm actually doing it that's the problem. I would really like to do the Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure again this year, but there's one race I REALLY want to do.  That would be the Cancer Challenge 5K that comes around in September. I did it one year, but that was it.  This year, I want to do it because I have a very good reason to:  My Mom.  She is going to be my motivator this year to participate in cancer related races.  And, as crazy as it sounds, I'd kinda like to try a Mud Run this year.  No definite plans, but something to think about.

3.  Reduce Some Debt

Up until 2012, I had awful credit.  And I mean bad.  I couldn't even buy a car from a used car lot without a co-signer.  If I applied for some form of credit card, I could just hear the chuckles and stifled laughs come through the phone line as the person helping me tried to contain themselves after looking at my credit score.  I was so relieved when I could start doing that stuff online, to save myself the embarrassment.  But, after a lot of hard work, I started to repair my credit in 2012.  By the time 2012 was over, I had my first small credit line credit card and even purchased a brand new car (with a co-signer).  Thanks to the credit that the new car provided, I was approved in 2013 for a home loan.  All by myself. Without the need for a co-signer, but Hubby and I bought our house together because it increased the amount we could borrow.  I was approved to finance the new furniture that we bought for our house.  I also got not one, but two more credit cards.  It seemed like the more credit I was given, the more I could get.  

I was pretty financially responsible in 2013, however, and just because I had the credit didn't mean I maxed it all out and used it willy nilly.  But, thanks to a pretty awesome Christmas... I did a little more spending than I probably should have.  This year, I want to reduce some of the crazy amount of debt we have.  That starts with paying off one of our vehicles and zeroing out all of the credit cards.  That will be done at tax time.  No lavish spending sprees...using the money we get back wisely to decrease some of our debt.  Then, I'm going to start working on using some of the money I usually spend on paying that car payment and credit card payments to apply a little more to the other car payment to help that one be paid off faster.  By this time next year, I'd like to have a lot less debt...but, without going all crazy, silly.

Which leads me to...

4.  Not stress about money.

I know with number three, this is kind of negating what I just said.  But, I truly believe I can eliminate some debt without going all crazy about it.  Be more financially responsible with paying off some bills and getting rid of a car payment is a great way to reduce debt, but I still want to be able to afford a little fun.  Nothing extravagant, but if we want to eat dinner out occasionally, or catch a movie, or take a day trip somewhere.. I want to do that.  

I'm pretty sure we're going to need some money before the summer to do some work on the pool.  We noticed a few cracks and missing tiles that need to be replaced.  We need to do that.  We had a leak in our bathroom and a couple of floor tiles got damaged.  We need to take care of fixing them.  We really need a new shower in our bathroom, and we might need to take care of that too... but, this year, I'm not going to stress too much about money.  Be sensible, yes.  Be stingy and tight?  No.

5.  Be more organized.

I'm a procrastinator.  I load way too much stuff on my plate that leaves me running around like a headless chicken.  I enjoy a fast paced lifestyle, but often blow off what I consider to be less important, or forget stuff that needs to be taken care of because I'm so busy all the time.  I want to do something about being better organized.  Rather than just relying on to-do lists and charts and planners, I want to get myself more in a routine of taking care of stuff that needs to be taken care of.  Doing stuff like taking care of what I need for the next day at work before I leave each evening, grading papers throughout the week so it's not all piled up to do over the weekend, writing lesson plans daily rather than doing it all on Sunday evening, get in to a routine with housework so that the same things are done each and every week on the same day... so there's no trying to fit it in when I can.  All stuff that would help me be more organized.  I really envy those people who live in the fast lane, but always seem to be so put-together, calm, and have an immaculate house to boot.  How do they do it?  Well, maybe this year I'll find out.

6.  Spend more time with family.

In 2013, I can definitely say I spent a lot of time with my kids.  Doing stuff together, going places, enjoying quality family time.  But, in 2014, I want to make more time for my extended family.  Not going an entire week without calling my mom to see how she's doing, not going a month before we see each other, not letting weeks and months pass before I see P-Momma.  Apart of my organization resolution will be including time to spend visiting and hosting family.  Whether it be inviting them over for dinner, or going over to visit them a few times a month, or planning a day where we can all go out and do stuff together... I don't want to feel like I need to "fit them in" at some point.  Just a natural, normal flow of time spent together... and more of it.  

7.  Date night!!

I don't remember the last time Hubby and I went out and did something romantic or fun with just the two of us.  Well, actually I do.. last year between my birthday and his.  We always seem to get one date night between February and April to celebrate both of our birthdays.  That usually includes the kids spending the night at my parents' or P-Mommas while Hubby and I go eat dinner at Red Lobster and then go home and enjoy some quiet time alone.  This year, I don't want to just get our one birthday dinner.  I want more time for us to spend some quality alone time together.  Peanut is old enough to babysit, now, and so I don't see any reason why Hubby and I can't go out for dinner now and then, maybe go out and watch a movie, or go out with some friends for an evening.  I devote a lot of my time keeping my kids amused and running them here and there for events and stuff they want to do.. I think it's high time Hubby and I get to cash in some of the chips I've been adding up to do some stuff alone.  

8.  ENJOY OUR YEAR!

This one should be easy.  I just want to enjoy the year.  Another year of life.  Making the moments count, laughing, trying new things, enjoying old things.  Not being too serious, and just have fun.  Before I know it, my kids will be all grown with lives and families of their own.  I just want to make each and every moment count while I still have them under my roof.  Peanut will be heading off to high school this year, Butter will be heading in to 8th grade, little Jelly is going to be moving in to 1st grade.  They grow up so darned fast!!  I just want to create more memories, live life to the fullest, and end this year with another round of "had a fantastic year!"

OK, I think that pretty much does it for me.  I really need to get to getting with cleaning up the house after all the fun we had last night.  I didn't get to take the tree down, yesterday, because I was out and about with Butter and Jelly for most of the day... so that's the first thing on my agenda.  

Hope everyone had a great time last night, and I wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year!!

Fifteen Resolutions for 2014 That I Can Actually Keep

So, I saw this amusing post on Facebook the other day that gave me the idea for today's post.  And that would be a list of resolutions for 2014 that I can actually keep.  I will work on a more serious list of resolutions I'm going to try and achieve, but to get me in the mood...let's psych myself up with these realistic aspirations.

1.  Spend Less Time Wearing Pants

Having a pool in my backyard has it's perks.  I don't have to wear a bathing suit in public.  With that being said, I want to spend 2014 wearing pants less, and my bathing suit more.  Of course, it has to get warm enough for us to clean out our pool and fill it with water.... but, you get the idea.  Until then, I'm perfectly content with wearing pajamas and sweats more.  Technically they are pants, but they are comfy pants so that's not the same.

2.  Forget past mistakes.....and press on to greater mistakes.

It's no secret that I like to make a fool of myself.  I don't mind one bit dressing up and looking like a total moron for the sake of amusing others.  I never seem to take pictures of a lot of memorable moments in my life, but it always seems as though I have pictures of my various spirit days.  One thing I have no intention of giving up in 2014 is my passion for acting the fool.  If anything, I'm just going to go on to bigger and better.  What will I think of next?  

And to go right along with that, I intend on making plenty of mistakes and learning from them.  I truly, 100% believe that my life has turned out as great as it has due to the mistakes I've made, and my ability to move on from them taking away any lessons I need to learn.  I don't dwell.  I don't give up.  I know that 2014 will hand me my share of mistakes to learn from...and I'm ready for them.

3.  Don't waste time!!!  Use time wisely doing something silly.  Or sleeping.  

I am the worst when it comes to complaining about wasting time.  If I really think about it, I waste a lot of time whining about wasting time.  There are a lot more productive uses of my time.  Like being silly, or sleeping.  Sleeping is always good.  But, one thing I really want to focus on in 2014 is having a little more fun, and not just for spirit days at school.  

I may be pressing in to my thirties, but that doesn't mean I have to act that way.  I want to spend more time with my friends and family, having fun, and letting my hair down.  Time seems to fly by so quickly that I need to take a few seconds to stop and smell the roses.  Or roll around in them.  Although, rolling around in roses would probably hurt...maybe I should stick to rolling around in the grass.  

4.  Take every disappointment as a reason to grow....or hit something.

I have somehow perfected the art of masking my emotions.  Even on the toughest of days, I have the ability of keeping a smile on my face.  These past few months, I have become an expert at smiling on the outside while crying on the inside.  I'm tired of being that way.  I'm tired of acting that way.  Instead, I'm going to start focusing on channeling my energy to more healthy approaches.  Like hitting stuff.  Not violently... just metaphorically.  Maybe.  I'd really like to get back in to boxing.  And running.  And finding other ways to release stress and anger so that I'm not bottling stuff up.  

But, one thing I know I can do is start telling people how I'm feeling.  Rather than just being polite for the sake of keeping the peace, I can find ways of sharing disappointments, letting out my frustrations, and moving on.  Disappointments come...they're inevitable.  But, they tend to get worse when they are just pushed down to the pit of the stomach awaiting more disappointments to be piled on top. That's not happening this year.  My stomach is going to carry a sign saying "NO DUMPING OF DISAPPOINTMENTS ALLOWED!"

5.  Don't let anything get in my way....of eating an entire pint of ice-cream in one sitting.

I like to think that I've always had a "go get-em" attitude.  If I have my mind set on something, I continue working towards it until I have it.  I wanted a teaching job...I worked my behind off until I got one.  I wanted a new car...I did everything in my power to get one.  I wanted a new house.... I hunted high and low until we found "the one".  I just don't give up that easy.  If at all.  

Except in one area, and that seems to be losing weight.  No matter how much I focus my mind on it.  I always lose weight, but it's keeping it off that's the problem.  This year, rather than start the year off with this "I'm going to lose tons of weight" attitude, I'm going to start the year off focusing on getting healthier.  Give up some bad habits, focus more on exercise, blah, blah, blah.  But, I also want to know that I'm not going to be all crazy about my diet.  Sure, I will try and eat better... but I'm refusing to go through any fad diets, eliminating anything from my diet, and making harsh rules that I won't end up following.  I doubt there will be any consumption of entire pints of ice-cream, but if there is?  So be it!

6.  Take a walk everyday.... or briefly consider it.

I don't really need to explain this one.  I know that I will talk a lot about wanting to walk more.  I will even spend many days actually following through and going out for that walk.  But, if I can at least think about doing it, I'm not giving up hope.  

My doctor says I should be walking 3 miles a day.  At least three times a week.  And all the walking I do while I'm at work doesn't count, because I'm used to doing that much walking each day.  Oh yeah?  If that's the case, why the heck am I so stinking tired at the end of each day?  I'll start the year off with the intention of getting in more exercise, but on the days I'm exhausted... I'll consider doing more exercise.  That will be a resolution I KNOW I can keep.

7.  Stop being afraid of what could go wrong.....and just focus on Channing Tatum

How can anyone think about problems while looking at him?  He has the power of making all the bad disappear.  Even on my worst of days, I know that I can look longingly into those gorgeous pecks eyes and make myself feel better.  While some people will be counting to ten to release pressure, I'll be repeating my soothing mantra "Channing Tatum, Channing Tatum, Channing Tatum".  I guarantee that as long as I keep those words running through my mind, I will stay calm and relaxed all year long.

Seriously, though, I do tend to worry way too much about stuff that could go wrong.  That's for the birds, this year.  My boy, Channing, is going to help keep my mind focused on the positive things in life and away from the what if's?  The only "but" I'm going to be thinking about is his!

8.  See the world....with the magic of the internet.

As much as I'd love to travel the world, the chances of that happening in 2014 is none.  No chance.  But that doesn't mean I can't stay up to date on the happenings, and being in contact with my family who live on another continent.  I've found a lot of new uses for my iPhone, recently, and it's become a big help with a lot of my daily tasks.  This next year, I'm going to continue finding new ways for my phone to keep me entertained.

But, I do plan on being out more.  Locally.  I'm going to use the power of my phone to find me some ideas on where the kids and I can go that doesn't cost too much, but gives us a chance to be silly, have some fun, and explore.  You'd be surprised how much something as simple as an iPhone can be when planning small adventures.

9.  Hold someone's hand at sunset.... Just kidding.  That's dumb.  I'm just going to post more pointless photos to Facebook.

I want to take more photos of memorable moments this year, and share those memorable moments with family and friends on Facebook.  However, I have every intention of continuing the fad to post photos of just about everything.  Everyone needs to see what I'm eating.  I'm sure all my friends are interested in the two snowflakes that fell from the sky and got everyone worked up.  I just have to post all the pictures of my cat asleep in various locations around the house.  And I'm positive I'll find some clouds that look ominous enough to get opinions from everyone on Facebook about whether or not a tornado could come out of them.  And, now, thanks to the awesome new photo editor that helped me create the photos for this blog post, I can even include funny little captions and cool effects.

Photos are a way of capturing memories.  Preserving them.  Even the silly ones that make no sense to many people.  To someone scrolling the Facebook feed, a picture of a person walking along the beach at sunset holds the same amount of significance as the picture of my cat sleeping upside down on the couch.  I like to see what other people are doing, but that doesn't mean I really care.  The same way I'm sure people don't really care about all the stuff I post.  But, it means something to me... so I'm going to keep doing it!

10.  Spend more time doing what really matters.....Watching Netflix.

Another resolution focused on time.  And what better way to spend spare time than watching Netflix?  I spend so much time working on the weekends and stuff, I want to spend more time just relaxing in front of the TV.  I've been neglecting my regular shows that I DVR, but that's because Netflix has added shows that have really caught my attention.  Even Katniss has taken a liking to Netfilx.  

As much as I want to fill my time doing silly things, and having fun, and exploring... I also want to just relax.  Take a load off.  Not having to be go-go-going ALL the time.  Hubby tells me all the time that I always have WAY too much on my plate (and he's not talking about eating).  He's right.  With school events, sports, and visits with family, there isn't much time carved out just to sit and do nothing.  Well, 2014 will have time for me to sit and do nothing.  Well...watching Netflix, anyway.

11.  Lose 5lbs a month, then gain it back, then lose 10lbs, then gain a few pounds back.

I'm not going to pretend that losing weight is a big joke to me.  In fact, I know that I will once again focus on trying to lose weight the minute the clock strikes 12.  It's just what I do.  I have done it every year for as long as I can remember, and I'm convinced that one year I will actually lose a bunch of weight and actually keep it off.  However, I also know that I will have success and I'll have failure.  I'll lose weight, and I'll gain some back.  It's just what I do. This post is all about resolutions I'll actually keep, so I might as well be honest with myself from the get-go.  

January through March are usually pretty good months for me, in terms of weight loss.  Then, I tend to slack off a little. When it's time to bring out the bathing suit in June, I will find some more motivation that will last until the bathing suit has to be put away.  Then, I'll start focusing on holidays, and know that some weight will creep back.  Again, one year I'll actually change all of that... will it be this year?  Who knows.  But, if I can end the year lighter than I started... I'll take it!

12.  It's never too late to learn a foreign language....there's an app for that.

A few days ago, I downloaded Duolingo.  It's an app that's completely free, and teaches foreign languages.  I've been playing around with it every day, and I'm actually learning some Spanish.  So, I'm making the resolution that I will not necessarily learn Spanish, but will give the app a good go and see how I do.  Move aside Rosetta Stone, I can actually try and learn a language without it costing me a penny.  

What I like about the app is the fact that it promotes translating from English to Spanish and Spanish to English.  So even though I can't necessarily have a conversation with anyone in Spanish, just yet, I am getting pretty familiar with what certain words are in Spanish.  However, for a totally free app, it's pretty fun and educational.  I'm even considering downloading it on Jelly's Nook.  It's done in a level/game style, earning points and prizes.  I'll give them a free plug.  It's worth checking out by anyone who has a slight desire to learn some words in a different language... Spanish, French, Italian...and more!

13.  Read more books.... or restaurant menus.

I had no intention of so many of these resolutions to be about food, just so you know.  It seems like since becoming a teacher, I've had a lot less time to read for fun.  I read to my kids each day.  I read books for book studies.  But, when it comes to just picking up a book I want to read, and reading it all the way through.... well, let's just say it's been a while.  In 2014, I want to read more books.  For fun.  Just because.  

If for fun reading also includes menus at new restaurants, I'm totally up for that, too!  But, that was merely to add some humor.  I don't plan on spending 2014 eating entire pints of ice-cream, sitting in front of the TV, and perusing new restaurants to choose from their vast menus.  Just in case anyone was worried about that.  I have no intention of gaining tons of weight in 2014, despite how these resolutions seem to be pointing towards that.

14.  Something, something, saving money.

Every single year, I make the resolution to be better with money.  Either budgeting, or saving, or decreasing spending.  Three years ago, I spent a year making absolutely NO money because I was going through my senior year of college.  Two years ago, I made $13,000 that year working as a teaching assistant because I couldn't find a teaching job.  Both years, money was extremely tight.  We tightened the purse strings, and there was no spending on anything but necessities.  Then last year, I bought a brand new car.  That hit our budget pretty hard.  This year, we bought a new home.  That took it's toll on rearranging the budget.  

We are not rich, by any means, but we have lived a pretty darn good life these past couple of years.  Even with all the budgeting and new car and new house.  Sure, I've had to use credit cards a little more than I'd like, but I've also kept the balances paid down and I'm not maxing out my credit cards for the sake of spending money, and we've been able to take care of situations when they arise.  My goal for 2014 is to not be so aggressive with the money saving.  Of course, our budget has to be a priority, but I wouldn't mind having a few dollars each month to do something fun.  Whether it be a trip to the zoo, crazy golf, bowling, dinner, or a movie, I just want to be able to not worry about money so much and just have fun.

And last but not least...

15.  Laugh more.  Actually laugh out loud.... instead of just typing "LOL" all the time.

I am one of those people that overly abuse the "LOL" abbreviation.  I'm not really laughing out loud each time I type those three letters.  I don't know why I type it if I'm not actually laughing, but I'm going to actually make the conscious effort to either laugh out loud when I type "LOL" or only type it when I'm actually laughing.  If it's not funny, it doesn't warrant a LOL.  Period.  I actually laugh all the time, but I never actually seem to be when I'm telling someone I am via text message or Facebook.  

2013 Conversation:

FB User:  Did you see the weather?  We might get snow tomorrow!

Me:  YAY!! Bring on the snow!!! LOL

2014 Conversation:

FB User:  Did you see the weather?  We might get snow tomorrow!

Me:  That's not funny whatsoever and I'm not currently laughing out loud about it, but I would be happy if we get snow.  

All texters have a bad habit of over abusing those quick abbreviations.. LOL, OMG, JK, BRB, IKR.  Texting jargon is killing conversation.  But, I'm not going to stop using them.  I just want to be more conscious of using my texting appropriately.  Again, LOLing when I'm actually laughing.  Laughing is my favorite, so I should have plenty of opportunities to use LOL.  Just not when something isn't funny.

OK, I think I might actually be able to keep these resolutions.  Tomorrow, I'm going to make a list of my real resolutions.  And before anyone starts sharing concerns about some of my plans for 2014, know that this post was all in good fun.  Do I intend on actually following these resolutions?  Absolutely!  Most of them, anyway.  

I always get so serious around New Year, and I wanted to shy away from that...at least for a day.  Making New Year's Resolutions can be fun.  They can be silly.  They can be honest.  

Who knows, maybe this is the year that things will be different.  Maybe I'll actually be able to keep ALL of my resolutions.  Both serious and not so serious.  We shall see.

Either way, I'm excited about what the new year has in store for me.... new challenges, new adventures.  Bring it, 2014!!

A Week of "Creating Awesome"

                               

This week has been another great week in my classroom.  

A few days ago, my principal emailed everyone at work a link to a video made by the cute little fella in the picture.  If you don't know who that is, go to YouTube and type in "Kid President".  Watch a couple of those videos...your day will become much brighter from doing so.

The particular video my principal sent was called "Pep Talk from Kid President".  You MUST watch it.  It's awesome.  It's so awesome, that I decided my students had to watch it.

This little boy provides a pep talk to everyone about making the world a better place...and in order to do that, they had to "Create Awesome".  He gives some examples of how that is done, and each time I watch the video, my creative juices start going...and I want to do something with them.

This week, after watching the video, I challenged my students to "create awesome" somehow each and every day.  We even did a little writing assignment with it.  For the most part, my kiddos looked at creating awesome by passing their tests, finishing their work, making good grades, etc.  One girl wrote that she created awesome by coming to school.  When I asked her to elaborate, she informed me that she went to an awesome school...so every day that she showed up, she was already creating awesome.  HA! What a great response!!

The positivity helped, and for the most part all of the kids did their work, made good grades, and passed their tests.

On Thursday, my class had it's quarterly testing.  Each quarter, the kids take an online assessment to see how much they've grown.  My class had taken the reading test on Monday and had done pretty well, but the math test is always a little nerve-wracking for my kids.  

I decided to show them a different Kid President video - A Pep Talk for Teachers and Students - before it was time for them to test.  We talked about the video, and the focus which was on "making history". Doing something unbelievable and wonderful that could be recorded down in their very own history books.  The kids all had one focus, and that was to create history on their quarterly math test.

As they were escorted away by the teacher administering the test, I felt confident they were going to do the best they could.

When they came back, an hour later, there was such a buzz in the air.  The kids wanted to know how they'd done.  It's always a little scary for me to pull up test results with the entire class, because I don't want to to make anyone feel bad if they didn't do as well as someone else.  I told the kids I would pull up the results, and let them see them individually.  

I was in total shock when I saw them.  All but two students in my class had MAJOR gains in their math scores.  The two that didn't were pretty high the first time around, so the lack of growth was no concern at all.  History had definitely been made!  All of the kids were so proud of themselves, and so was I.  

Kid President has set a new tone in my room.  One of positivity, challenge, and focus.  My kids want to succeed.  They want to do better...be better.  And as the teacher, it's an amazing feeling to have.

Yesterday, we went on our field trip.  One we didn't think we'd get with the government shutdown.  Thankfully, the government quit their whining just in time for my kiddos to get their day at George Washington Carver National Monument and state park.  

The weather was cool, but nice...perfect for walking around the park hearing the story of George Washington Carver.  A young boy that overcame MAJOR feats to become a famous scientist and humanitarian.  The perfect way to end a perfect week.

The kids did so well, listening and asking questions.  It really sent home the message I had been trying to push all week:  It doesn't matter where you came from, it's where you're going that's important.  

They were able to hear about a boy born in to slavery, being very sickly and surviving, who was nothing more than curious about the world around him.  He craved education, and learning everything he could.  He traveled miles and miles on foot to attend school, and later used that education to help people...becoming a scientist and teacher.  If he could do it, in the times he lived, my kids could definitely do whatever it is they want to do when they grow up.  

Our week ended on a very positive note, once again, and I was able to come home feeling great about my week and what I had been doing in the classroom.  I love weeks like this one.  It helps recharge my batteries and drive home why I do what I do.

This weekend won't be near as busy or stressful as my last couple of weekends.  I have work to do, but not as much.  I have a house to clean.  I have laundry to do.  I have grocery shopping to take care of.  But, my plan is to also get in a visit with P-Momma...hopefully...and spend some time relaxing.

It's a short week next week, so there will be plenty of time to catch up on any work I don't get done this weekend.

If I want to get anything done this weekend, though, I better get to getting....

Positivity is a Powerful Tool

Last Friday, I blogged about my 2nd year teacher meeting...in which the topic of discussion was positivity.  Or simply being more positive.  Focusing on good, and not allowing the negativity to take over and dominate.

Since that meeting, I've tried very hard to apply that message in to my classroom.  

Friday, I was the poster child for positivity.  Praising my students, encouraging them, thanking them for working hard, etc.  And it paid off, being that for the first time since school started my ENTIRE class passed both their reading and science tests.  The kids were rewarded for their hard work with some extra recess time.

Yesterday, they came back to school after their weekend remembering that gesture.  And it meant a lot to me to hear the comments about how they would, once again, work hard, pass their tests, and earn themselves some extra recess.  

And they also picked up on the fact that something wasn't right with me.  I was not my bouncy, full of Monday-joy self.  

Which was true.  Kids are very intuitive when it comes to stuff like that.  They can pick up on emotional changes.  None of them asked me what was wrong, but I was met with several hugs, and they really focused on being quiet when they came in and got straight to work without being reminded to do so.  

Before school even started, I spoke to my team members.  Told them that I was troubled, and feeling down.  They offered their words of support and guidance...and my Mama Bear team member said a prayer with me.  It made me feel a lot better, emotionally.  Like weight was physically being lifted off my shoulders.  She gave me a big hug, told me everything would be OK, and my day started.

A little while later, I was able to talk to Mrs. P and get the situation taken care of that was troubling me.  I'll be honest, I really didn't expect it to go the way it did.  I mean, even though I knew I did absolutely nothing wrong... I felt like maybe I had made a mistake.  Or maybe I shouldn't have gone out on a limb for someone, offered to do what I thought was a nice thing.  That my mistake was just trying to be nice.

But, I found out - or should I say reinforced - that I did NOT make a mistake, and there was absolutely nothing wrong with trying to help someone out.  Mrs. P supported me, reassured me, and really drove home how much she cares for her students and her teachers.  She was there for me when I needed her.  And not only did I get to leave her office feeling better about the situation, but it drove another nail in to very long list of reasons why I work in the best freakin' school EVER!

I have no idea how any other principal would have handled the situation.  I can't sit here and say that my principal is the only one out there that would do what she did.  But, to hear the words she said to me, about me, sent a surge of warmth through my heart.  There is no other school I'd rather be in.  Period.  

Money doesn't matter.  Distance doesn't matter.  I hit the jackpot when she offered me my job a little over a year and a half ago....and I am reminded of that almost every, single day.  With the people I work with, the students that I come in to contact with, and the administration that truly show me I am a valued member of their team.

Walking out of her office, I was able to leave my negative feelings and stress behind.  I made sure that the rest of the day, I focused on the positive.  I, again, spent the day encouraging my students, praising them for their hard work, and the whole day went by smoothly.  It was another great day of learning in my room.

I have never really considered myself a pessimist.  I'm usually a pretty optimistic person.  I sometimes, though, let negative feelings take over when things aren't going the way I expect them to.  Or, I get frustrated when stuff starts getting out of control, or I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong.  What I've learned in a few short days, however, is that a little positivity goes a very long way.  Everything may not work out the way I expect it to, I can't control every outcome.  What I can do is embrace the good that is taking place, and let the negative slip by me.  Not let it in.  Ignore it.

I know that life can't be rainbows and hummingbirds all the time.  There will be days where I want to pull my hair out, scream from the top of my lungs, and curl up under my desk in a fetal position.  But, on the days where I don't feel like doing any of those things should be embraced as a good day.  And I know that as long as I'm fleeting around my room like I'm sliding down rainbows and followed by hummingbirds, my kids are feeling the same way.  When I'm happy, they're happy.  When I'm encouraging them and praising them, they are working harder to get that encouragement and praise.  

When I'm stressed, they're stressed.  When I'm grumpy and moody, they're not focusing on working their best.  They're just ready for their day to be over, so they can get as far away from me as possible. And why on earth would I want a classroom running that way?

What I'm quickly learning this year is balance.  Weighing out the good versus the stressful.  What do I let impact my day?  What battles do I choose to face head on or choose to ignore?  And what I'm finding out is that at the end of every question, there's a positive spin that can be applied.

Got a class full of kids that can't behave during their specials classes?  OK.  I tried taking recess time away.  I tried yelling.  I tried the disappointment spill.  Nothing worked.  One day, I tell them that each specials teacher will select two students EVERY DAY to receive a homework pass for good behavior, and voila!  No more behavior issues.

Got a class that no matter how much I prepare them and study with them and direct them where to go for answers, still fail their tests?  OK.  I tried yelling.  I tried sending failed tests home to parents.  I tried the disappointment spill.  Nothing worked.  One day, I tell them how appreciative I am of the hard work they've put in that week, how hard they've prepared for the test.. and voila!  An entire class passes a test.  Then, throw in that they're going to earn some extra recess time for said passed test, and they blow me away by not only passing but making ALL A's and B's on another test the same day.

Got a class that no matter how many times I remind them to take home their books and papers at the end of the day still doesn't finish their homework?  Yeah...that's my next victim.  That's my focus and test subject for this week.  Rather than yell or take recess time away, I've made a pretty planner sheet for them.  I've given them all of their work that will be expected for the entire week, complete with deadlines.  I've told them that they'll have time to work on ALL of it during the week in class.  I've promised no rewards, no incentives.  Just reminded them that hard work pays off in the end...and we're going to see what happens this week.

I'm going to stay positive that it's going to be a good week for getting work turned in.  

We shall see.

But, this morning, I'm feeling good.  I'm excited to get back in to my classroom.  Great stuff is happening, and I want to keep that momentum going.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!!

This Tourist is Ready for a Vacation!!

Yesterday was Day 2 of Homecoming Spirit Week, and the theme was Tourist Tuesday.

And guess what I didn't do?  

Yep.  Get a picture of myself.  Totally forgot until I was driving home last night.

Don't be too disappointed.  My dress-up consisted of jean capris, a t-shirt, a hat, sunglasses, and flip flops.  That's it.  Nothing that special at all, really.

Because when I think about going on vacation, that's basically all I wear.  

Ah, vacation.  Wouldn't that be nice?  And yesterday was a day I could have really used one.  

I spent most of my day, yesterday, wearing my heart on my sleeve...and almost breaking in to tears more times than I care to mention.  Which is totally NOT me.  I'm not a very emotional person, so when I'm on the verge of tears...there has to be something major causing it.

The major was lack of sleep, served with a pairing of monthly hormones, with a side of stress.

Fun.  Not.

I've been going pretty much non-stop these past few weeks, with very little down time.  This past weekend was a major strain on my relax time being that Saturday I was up and out by 6:30AM, and then the past two days I haven't been home before 9PM.  

Couple that with those pesky monthly hormones that are visiting me right now.

And then throw in the fact that I'm super stressed with some demands that have been put on me this year in my classroom, that I'm trying everything in my power to stay on top of...but feel like I'm failing.  Miserably.

It all got to be so much that I finally broke down.  Got to that place where I'd just had enough... and when that happens, my mouth starts a flappin' and I'm going to pop off stuff I don't mean or throw my frustrations in the wrong direction.

Thankfully, though, I work with a bunch of people that have come to know me well enough to realize that when my mouth starts going, and tears start springing to my eyes... it's time for an intervention.  Cause I don't just do that kinda stuff willy nilly.  It has to be pretty major or pretty pent up for it to get to that level.

And I wasn't shocked when I saw the email in my inbox yesterday afternoon from Mrs. P asking for me to go and see her.

I don't know why, but anytime I receive an email like that from my principal, I get that "oh no, I'm in trouble" feeling.  Which is very stupid...because I've never received an email like that and actually been in trouble.  If anything, I should be to the point of understanding that when I do receive an email of that nature that it's just a "time for an intervention" email, or "I just have a quick question for you" email.  Because that's what they usually are.

Yesterday's email was of the intervention kind.

After school, I went to see Mrs. P.  And it took a lot to hold back the tears that I'd wanted to let out all day...and actually did let out a couple of times away from co-workers.  And she did what she always does - made me feel better.  

I walked in ready to rip my hair out.  I left thinking "I can do this, I've got this.  I'm a person that loves a challenge...and I am ready to stand up to it".  It always helps when Mrs. P throws in a few compliments and words of encouragement.

In a way, she's my coach.  Waiting on the sidelines, watching me make my plays.  She's ready to correct me when I need correcting, provide ideas when I need ideas, and just give me a friendly pat on the backside when I just need to hear some kudos.  And regardless which one she's doing, she never fails at reminding me that I'm a strong player on the team.  A player that's needed, plays a hard game, and NEVER quits.

All day, yesterday, I made an agreement with myself that once school was out I would lock my classroom door and just let it all out.  Cry.  Sob.  Release the pent up frustration.  

But, after leaving her office, I didn't have to do that.  Instead, it was back to my class and to my mentor teacher (my other coach) for play strategies and a game plan.

Wow, can you tell I've got football on the brain this week?  HA!

Today, I feel much better...and I'm ready to put some new ideas in to effect.  I'm ready to start taking a different look at the challenges I've been dealing with and face them head on.  No more crying.  No more getting all stressed out.  I was reminded yesterday that I was the one to ask for these challenges in the first place...and sometimes you just have to be careful what you wish for.

But, they're right.  I kinda sorta did ask for these challenges, so it's only right that I stand up and do what I totally intend on doing.  I truly believe I can work miracles and change the lives of 25 kids.  Nobody gets left behind.  Nobody gets to slip through the cracks.  Nobody gets to slack off in my room and feed me excuses that they "can't".  "Can't" is a word I've banned in my room... so I darned well better apply that to myself!

It's fitting that with my newfound confidence comes Wacky Wednesday.  Dress up as Wacky as possible.

I'm less than 5 minutes away from starting that process...and I have no idea what that process is going to end up like.  But, I PROMISE to get pictures today.  I'm sure they're going to be awesome.  HA!

Alright, time to go...

Have an AWESOME Wednesday...and may it be just a little Wacky, or a lot Wacky if you're lucky enough to work where I do.  

How Are Those Resolutions Doing?

Yeah, I know.  It's February 6th.  Not the beginning of the month - I know that.  But there was another very important event happening the first of this month, so I wasn't thinking about my resolution update.

I am today.  So Feb. 6th it is.  I said I would update on my resolutions the first of each month, to kinda help keep me on track...so I suppose we should get going.

How have I done with my resolutions since the start of the year?

1.  Lose weight:  Well, everyone should know how this one is doing.  I've lost 8lbs since I started Atkins 3 1/2 weeks ago.  I don't think that's too bad - and a great start.  I will admit that I've had some difficulty bouncing back since my birthday weekend - but nothing I'm worrying about.

I've started walking during my recess duty.  I just walk around the playground. Five times around is supposed to be a mile - and I get in about 4 times.  Recess is 20 minutes long, and with making sure I'm supervising the kids and stuff...it's not too bad.  Besides, any walking is better than no walking.

Water drinking isn't going well.  Although, I have been drinking lots of unsweetened iced tea during the day.  Not as good as water, but better than soda or not drinking anything.

Being that I'm on Atkins, the portion control is starting to become a habit.  I eat until I'm full, which is pretty darn easy to do being that all the protein makes me full and keeps me that way.

So, resolution #1 gets a 7/10.

2.  Make the most of my time:  Hmmm... what was this one again?  Oh yes, I was supposed to work more on not procrastinating trying to use my down time to actually relax and stuff.  This week isn't the greatest week to talk about this one.  Monday night I didn't get home until after 9pm.  Yesterday, I had meetings during my planning time, and had to rush off right after school to a meeting.  Today I have another meeting right after school.  Tomorrow I have YET another meeting during my plan time.  I'm out of breath just typing all of that.  But, let's take a look at the progress anyway.  Just for laughs.

I have done pretty well about getting my grading and stuff ready for the next day before I leave at night.  For the most part.  When I actually have the time to do that stuff.  If I don't, then I'm at work pretty early to make sure it's all done before the day starts.

Use my planning time to plan?  Urm.  Yeah.  No.  There have been days where I use my plan time to grade, file away stacks of paper, and try to keep on top of everything piling up on my desk.  But plan?  Not so much.

Get in a routine for cleaning?  Oh goodness...stop... I'm going to choke on my coffee from laughing too hard.   Let's just leave it at that m'kay?

Resolution #2 gets a 3/10...and I'm being generous to myself.

3.  Become more financially responsible:  I filed my taxes last week, and should be getting my refund by the end of the month. I also have to pay both Arkansas and Missouri - which is something I've never had to do before.  Pay state taxes.  Guess that's one of the "benefits" on working in a different state... but I'm not too stressed over it.  It's not a great deal.  I plan on putting away a big chunk of the money... let's see how the progress of that goes this time next month.

I have continued to budget every penny, and still coming in a little under budget.  My Atkins stuff has caused us to spend a little more on groceries, but I think it's a good investment.  It is my health, after all.  Don't think I'm wasting the money if I'm spending for food that will help me lose weight and live longer.  Hopefully.

While I haven't "officially" started a rainy day fund, I've also been storing away the money that I'm under budget each month.  I don't know how much that is right now - because I start my budget count over each month.. but once I get my taxes in I should probably get a better idea of how much I've saved.

And I am happy to say that I have zeroed out one credit card, the other will be zeroed out this month, and I haven't had to really use any credit cards since the beginning of the year.  That's a big bonus.

Resolution #3 gets a 8/10.  That will go up when I start my separate fund and stuff.

4.  Create more memories and traditions:  Is it bad to admit that this is the resolution I've completely made no progress on?  I hope not.. cause that's totally the case.  While I don't remember saying "Momma's too busy right now" one time this year, so far, I also haven't done anything special or fantastic with the kids either.

The family night hasn't been started.  I will say that a lot of that has to do with the fact that either a child has been sick every single weekend since Christmas, or because we're watching a movie, or because a part of the family - or all of it - has been at my parent's house.  The sickness thing is just about to drive me totally up the wall.  It's Butter's turn right now.  He was sent home from school early yesterday with a fever.  Can't return back today.  And I'm just so ready for all the sickness to be GONE!

I am a horrible person.  I haven't taken a single photo of the kids since Christmas.  I've taken one of me - dressed supposedly as an old lady, but coming off more like a crazy woman.  And that's about it.  It's even worse that Peanut won some awards at an assembly last week - and I didn't capture a single photo of the event.  Horrible person, I tell you!

While I'm a horrible person for not taking pictures - I have listened, laughed, and loved.  Peanut and I continue to strengthen our relationship with daily chit chats about her life and how it's going.  Butter has improved so much on his behavior and progress in school.  And Jelly still wakes up every morning with a kiss and a hug for me.  Somehow, I'm doing something right.

Resolution #4 gets a 2/10 just because my kids are happy...and that's important.

5.  Be happy:  I am.  I really am.  Despite being so darned busy, tired, and frustrated about going through sick bug after sick bug with the kids.  I'm still happy.  Deep down, I know I'm struggling with accomplishing everything I set out to accomplish - but I've made a lot of progress, and I'm learning not to sweat the small stuff.

This past weekend, I thoroughly enjoyed a day out with my mom.  I made time for myself.  We laughed until we cried, we shared everything that's been going on with us, and it was cleansing for my soul.

Shortly after the new year, I went to Goodwill and dropped off several bags of clothes.  I am volunteering at the basketball games.  I'm in the midst of planning a formal dance for the junior high kids.  I'm building relationships with the people in my school's community.  As soon as I get off my rear and clean out Jelly's toys, I will be sending them to kids who would enjoy them.  I'm definitely no Mother Teresa, by any means, but I'm trying to distribute my blessings.

I haven't really followed any new ventures.  I have made a few new crochet items, but with the lack of time..that's fallen by the wayside just a little.  I have plans to get to it.  Eventually.

Regardless of what I haven't done, I still have a big ol' smile on my face.  I'm loving every minute of my job, I'm loving every minute I'm spending with my family, and I'm loving every minute of life in general.  So...Happy?  Oh yes I am!

Resolution #5 gets a 9/10.  Cause it doesn't matter how much stuff I list, it's all based on how I feel.

What I'm realizing is that it's February.  While I'm not accomplishing everything on my list - I haven't given up on anything, either.  I have so much of the year left...and I plan on continuing to improve.  The important thing to remember is that I've made some progress.  I'm still committed to continuing the progress.  And, I will continue to see what the year has in store for me.

My Only Goal This Next Week? Stay Strong!

So, after today, I would have officially made it through my first week of Atkins.  I will admit, I've stepped on the scale several times this week - and have seen some great progress.  That was, until this morning.  I was a little disheartened to see a bigger number than I saw on Friday.

There can be lots of reasons for that.  Even though I didn't "over eat" yesterday, I didn't eat dinner until much later than I'm used to eating.  I didn't track my food until this morning and realized that I did go over my carb goal by 3 grams.  I ate bratwurst for dinner, which are LOADED with too much fat...and I ate more than one.

I also walked quite a bit yesterday, haven't "cleaned out my pipes" (yeah, yeah, TMI), and my body could just be adjusting.

Whatever the reason, it was a little disheartening to see the number had gone up from Friday.

It was moments like this morning that made me remember why I'm only supposed to weigh myself once a week.... to avoid riding the roller coaster of daily weight fluctuations.

So, I'm not sure what the scale is going to tell me tomorrow morning - but one thing I'm going to keep telling myself is to just STAY STRONG and go with it.  I'm not going to lose everything in the first week...it's a process, and I just have to have patience, keep doing what I'm doing, and have faith that it will all work it's self out.

Staying strong with Atkins isn't the only thing I have to focus on this next week.

Last week was really tough at work.  I was grumpy almost every day with my kiddos.  In fact, all of the 4th grade teachers were grumpy and frustrated.  And it all stemmed from the fact that it seemed like all the kids had just switched off their care buttons and didn't give a flying patooty what we had to say or what we wanted them to do.

All week long we were sharing stories about how many times we'd gone over something or explained something or asked something - for it to never get done.  How we would give directions, and sit there and watch as most of the class just wandered off in to daydream land...and then do what they wanted to do rather than what they were supposed to be doing.  How I would give 2 multiplication problems to work for homework, and hear a list of excuses the next day about how they just didn't have time to work two problems between watching TV, playing their video games, or playing outside.

We finally decided, as a team, that getting frustrated, lecturing, and taking privileges away just wasn't really cutting it.  It was time we took a different approach, and start rewarding those few kids that were doing what they were supposed to be doing while the three of us teachers focused all of our attention on being frustrated at the majority who weren't.

So, we devised a plan to help instill some responsibility, reward those who do what they are supposed to do, and hopefully release us from some serious stress.  Hello - FUN FRIDAY!  Each kid is going to start the week with 5 tickets.  Those kids that still have 2 tickets left at the end of the week will get to participate in a fun activity like getting extra recess, watching a movie with popcorn, or playing games.  Something.  Those kids that don't have enough tickets will go on, business as usual, and work on whatever it is they didn't do that week - or an assignment that would have been given during that time.

We are all hoping that knowing that those kids who just did what they were supposed to do are getting to have some fun will spark something in those kids that are playing by their own rules.

I just want to STAY STRONG this week and not get all frustrated and upset and stressed over the lack of commitment and effort being given on their part.

Right now, however, I really need to STAY STRONG and get all of my work finished before I have to go and pick up kids from their various weekend adventures.  Oh, and do some laundry.  Oh, and clean and vacuum the living room.

STAY STRONG, STAY STRONG, STAY STRONG!!!

I can do this.

Just Gotta Rely on My To-Do List

Before leaving work on Friday, I had a million things racing around my head about what I needed to get done over the weekend.  That's what happens when I have an entire two weeks off work, and I choose to sit on my caboose the whole time - and take care of a sick child - instead of actually doing it.  All day, I just kept reminding myself of the stuff I had to have ready by Monday.

My usual routine would be to walk out the door, work on stuff all weekend, and then walk back in to the classroom on Monday and be hit with the "Oh crud, I forgot to... ".  Then, I'm racing around like a crazy woman trying to get that one thing I forgot done before my lovelies walk in to the room. 

Friday, I decided to try something else.

Before leaving, I sat at my desk and created a to-do list.  It took me all of 5 minutes.  I scanned my room, my file folders for next week, and the little sticky notes I had written to myself on my desk.  I then wrote up a quick list.

Yesterday, when I sat down to work, I didn't sit there forever trying to remember all of the things I had to do - I just went straight to my list.  And the funny thing was, as I was working, something would pop in to my head that I forgot to write on my list - so I just added it and kept on working.

I had one big project that I wanted to knock out this weekend... but after sitting at the computer for 4 hours and only being less than a quarter of the way in, I decided that it was a project that was going to take a couple of weekends.  Or, a few days after school being that I might have to start working late again because Butter wants to try out for the basketball team. 

It's funny to me, because I actually happen to consider myself a pretty organized person.  To a point.  I'm meticulous with calendars - keeping three running at once, usually.  Important dates, appointments, and stuff go on a shared calendar on my computer, in my phone, and in my written planner.  I'm also meticulous with my plans...keeping a written version and a typed version.  But, when it comes to stuff that I have to do - I've always been a wing it kind of person.  I just try to store it in my brain - and..well...it's not the best way to keep on top of things.

Something was different while I was working yesterday.  I was more at ease.  I felt more organized.  Definitely felt a lot more productive.  And that's when it dawned on me that just having a small list sitting next to me to keep me on track was all I needed.

So, that's something else I'm going to add to my goal list.  Start keeping to-do lists around so that I keep myself focused on what needs to be done..and check them off as I go.

Which, yesterday's list still has some unchecked items...so that's where I need to be focused now.

Blogging Resolutions

Today is Friday.  The last day of the week, and the day I'm celebrating about having two days off.  But, after being off work for two weeks, and only being back at work one day, it doesn't seem as exciting today.  Not that I don't want the two days off... I totally do.

This is also the day that I usually do my Friday's Letters.

I love writing my Friday's Letters.  They are quick, fun, and usually mindless.  I can just let out some steam on the page, and get on with my day.

But, I also feel like my blog has become a hub for recurring blog post themes rather than actual blog posts written from the heart each day.  I have Truthful Tuesday, Ten Things Thursday, Friday's Letters.  I spend Monday recapping the weekend - which is just a repeat of what I wrote about on Saturday and Sunday.  That doesn't really leave much room for unique posts.

While I don't think there's anything wrong with doing weekly post themes, I need to cut back.  I don't want to fall in to a sink hole of doing the same ol' same ol' over and over each week.

So, here's what I'm thinking.  I need some blog resolutions.  First week of January is a great week to think about the future of my blog - and how I want to run it.

I like consistency.  I like plans and organization.  But, I also have to keep a balance of writing this blog for me, and not because it's just a part of my routine.  What happens when I make my blog routine?  Weekly repetitive posts that require little thought.  Not really what a blog is for.  So, I think some resolutions for my blog is the way to go...

1.  The first day of each month, I will try and recap the progress of my resolutions.  MY resolutions, not the blog resolutions.  I will update my weight loss progress, my money saving progress, my time management progress, my family time progress, etc.  I think it's a great way to stay in check with my resolutions all year...and not forgetting about them a month in.

2.  I'm keeping Truthful Tuesday.  Why every day of my blog writing is truthful and honest, I like having a day each week where I throw stuff out there that don't take up an entire blog post.  But, rather than writing my Truthful Tuesday posts about cheating on my healthy eating plan, or not doing something I said I would, or being an entire post of complaining about what I want to do but haven't done yet - I'm going to try and keep it a little more upbeat.  Does that mean I won't be complaining?  Probably not - but just not about myself.  All of the time.

3.  I'm will do themed posts the last week of each month.  I don't want to get rid of my Letters post and Ten Things Thursday... I just don't want to do them every week.  So, I figure if I designate a week each month to do them, I can focus on writing about other stuff throughout the month.

4.  I will read and comment on at least two blogs a day.  I miss the interactions I had with fellow bloggers.  I would comment on a blog, they'd comment on mine.  That's how it works.  I know that I started avoiding reading blogs because they were focused on weight loss - and I.. well... wasn't.  But I considered those bloggers as my friends - we built relationships - and I bailed on them.  I can't expect people to come back to my blog and support me if I bailed on them.  So, I'll be rekindling some relationships - and looking for new ones.

5. I will stop worrying what others might think about what I have to say.  Kind of.  Being a public blogger is difficult - especially in my line of work.  I'm a very opinionated person, and I usually have opinions and feelings about everything.  I don't like to share a lot of them, however, because I'm always worried about offending someone or what people might think about me.  While I have to censor and monitor some of my feelings, I should NEVER have to worry about what others might think about me.  From now on, if I have something on my mind that I want to write about - and I know it won't get me in to trouble - I'm going to write about it.  If it offends people or upsets them or makes them not like me - so be it.  I can't write a blog about me if I can't be me.  Right?   So while I'll still probably stay away from the top stuff like religion and politics, I won't be backing off from saying something just because a few people that may stumble across my blog might not like it.  It's my blog - and I often forget that.

OK, I think that about does it.  I know, I know, this all sounds very planned and organized - but there's no way I can totally throw out my plans and organization.  It's just who I am.

I haven't had great progress with resolutions in the past, I know that, but I feel like this year may be the year.  If I make myself more accountable, keep track of my plans and progress consistently, and use my resolutions as my guide through the year, I may have some major progress.  I can hope, anyway.

Alright, time to get ready for work.