Building 2011

Look at what she did.  Can you believe it?  She changed the background.  Again.  I would never have chosen this one.  I like the old one.  And up at the top.  She's already put 2011.  Who does she think she is?  Probably rubbing my nose into how organized she is.  Oh look at the line underneath.  40.  She is so old.  What's that last part mean?  Live better?   (squiggly lines squiggly lines...picture fade...)

The other day I was talking to Jace and we were discussing everything that happened this past year.  It's been a great year.  I don't remember having accomplished so much "quality" stuff in any other year.  Then the other, other day I talked to a friend about it and we both agreed it had been a pretty phenomenal year for her, too. 

Here's a recap:

Planted a spring garden and had tomatoes coming out my ears.
Started running.  Ran in a 5k and didn't die or come in last.
Started knitting and crocheting and crafting on anything that didn't move.
Helped start a business.  I'm still in business.  Volunteered at a craft show.
Read more than 12 books.  A few of them changed my life and sent me on new journeys.
And lots of other things I can't think of right now because it's late.

Now it's the end of the year and what most people want to do is come up with their New Year's Resolutions.  This is a bad plan.  Oh sure, the idea seems good but it's usually done without much forethought.  Something quick and broadstroked, like...I'm going to give up sweets, or lose a million pounds.  People mean well but it's not thought out.  The idea or resolution just seems to hang there in midair. 

A person should also ask themselves why.  Why am I giving up sweets?  Why am I losing a million pounds? 

I sat down and thought about the past year.  I asked myself what could I do this next year that builds on what I've already accomplished?  How will I live better?  And that's why I put that in the blog description up at the top, to be a reminder to me, and maybe you, to stay on track and do things that help me live better. 

Living better, for me, is not about having more money.  It's about learning new things, taking on new challenges, working hard to keep my family strong. 

Some things I'll be working on:

Read 12 books
Making a sock.  I could say "pair of socks" but I figure if I can make one then I can make the other and then it just sounds redundant.
Plant a bigger spring garden
Consume less.  Of everything.
Eating much healthier.  Working towards eliminating processed food.  Giving up soda. 
Learn more about nutrition, the food I eat and where it comes from.
Learn to can my own food. 
See how long we can go without a microwave.
Remake a piece of clothing.

That's my rough list.  Hopefully I've made you rethink how you want to build your 2011. 

 I'm looking forward to blogging another year of successes, mishaps, and miracles in 2011.  Hope to see you there.