Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Sometimes You Have to Say "No" to Say "Yes" to the Right Things



Isn't it interesting to take a new year and dream about the possibilities that it holds? Isn't it fun to imagine a better you (either emotionally or physically)?
As part of the #letsblogoff series, I have chosen to look at the things I'm looking forward to in 2012.


I will preface this blog by saying that I'm not one to usually make resolutions, or if I do, I don't put them out there. You see, I'm a great starter by trade, but a horrible finisher. I hate defeat and hate admitting it even more. But, this is a new year and changes must be made to assure that 2012 isn't the same as 2011 or 2010.

This year, I vow to make myself slow down long enough to appreciate it. I don't want to be sitting around the fire in September wondering what happened to May and June. Did I truly show love to others? Can I even remember those times? I am planning to pick and choose my activities. My priority will be my family. There may be things that I might have to say "no" to, but those decisions will be run through the filter of "Is this best for my family?". Yes, I might just have to retire my Super Woman (or Splintergirl) cape and admit that I can't do everything.

I'm looking forward to continuing to work on my marriage and work on really listening to my husband and learning how to use the differences in the ways we approach things and communicate to make us stronger, to make our bond unbreakable. I'm looking forward to the work it will take to put us there.

I'm looking forward to seeing what will come of my husband's lay off. I'm hopeful that he will find a position that better suits his needs for a company that truly cares about him and his abilities. So, anyone in need of a very experienced AutoCAD draftsman with building designer and LEED experience that is working on his Architecture degree? :)

I'm looking forward to continuing to work with the middle schoolers at my church, especially my 8th grade girls' group. I love them to pieces. They honestly teach me so much about life without even realizing it and I only hope that the feeling is mutual. I aspire to inspire them, accpeting them as they are and challenging them to strive for more.

I'm looking forward to my work with Lancaster County Timber Frames, Inc. and really getting some much needed PR for the company. I love my job and my dream has always been to get a frame featured in a magazine. I'm not sure why that seems to be such a dream for me, but it is an accomplishment that I've been striving for. I'm also working towards making my position much more fluid and structured, so as to be as efficient and timely as possible.

On a personal side...the "for me" part...I am looking forward to continuing to run and really getting on a good schedule for that. I've always felt guilty going for a run when something else needed done. This year, I want to strive for a better balance of that and realize that the run is important for me for health reasons, but also emotional ones. I want to run my 2nd half marathon in under 2 hrs. 15 min. this October. I want to write more. It is something that love to do, but again, I don't make time for the things that I love. So, I'd love to blog weekly or at least write poetry.

Ahhh...so I've put this all out there. "All in" as I tell my daughter. Now, it will be up to me to see if I can actually fulfill this list or at least put myself in the right place to have a good start on it. Now, you know MY heart. What are some of the things that you are looking forward to?

If you'd like to read the posts of the other contributors to #letsblogoff, you can visit www.letsblogoff.com or view the chart below:


Photo credit goes to: cameronsong.blogspot.com

9 comments:

Sean @ SLS Construction said...

Ahhh the cape can remain, it's just time to let your sidekicks grow... I wish both you & your husband the best of luck & I am sure something will come along as many areas are improving. Happy New Years Amy

Robin Rigby Fisher, CMKBD/CAPS said...

Best wishes to you and your family this year and good for you to post your goals. I find that the years when I post my resolutions, I am much more successful - especially in the area of my husband - having both parties focusing on the same goal results in much success!!! All my best for a wonderful 2012!

AlexandraFunFit said...

I didn't know your hubby was laid off. I'm sorry to hear it as that's stressful. My wish for 2012 is that you get that magazine feature you want. I know it will happen. Put it out there and tell everyone as they'll keep an eye out for you!

Unknown said...

Wonderful post Amy and you have many things you're looking to work on in 2012 and I have a feeling that you'll get them all set too. I hope something comes up for your husband and if there is anything I can do to help, just ask. Happy New Year!

Raun Lauterbach said...

It's very profound saying "no" allows you to say "yes" but it is certainly true. I think all of your goals are attainable and that, given the proper focus, you make them a reality. Thanks for sharing!

Nick Lovelady said...

Great post, Amy- Here's to the best in 2012!

Eddie Bashaw said...

Amy good luck. I know finishing can be tough and not as fun as starting something. Best wishes.

Welshcakes Limoncello said...

Have a very happy New Year.

ModernSauce said...

Sorry to hear about your husband but I'm sure things will turn around this year. I have a feeling it's going to be a great year for everyone... ; )