Source: ilashgirls.com via Lydia on Pinterest
Hello! I feel like it’s been ages since I’ve blogged- but the rest was absolutely enjoyed. These weeks have seen my daughter turning six and my father turning eighty and 2012 being welcomed with popping balloons and confetti egg’s being cracked on each other’s heads- it was nice.
My time was also spent thinking up what my resolutions (or good intentions as I like to call them)for this year would be. Losing weight for the first time in a long time was not on the list but “start working out again” was. I also want to write more often, draw and paint and just create more often this year.
I want to more then anything else find ways to simplfy.I found a very cool challenge being led by Debra Dane of Homelifesimplified, 52 weeks to simplify your life and I can’t wait to take part in it. Our first challenge? Create a list of everything that went right in 2011.
This is the list of questions and my answers.
What energised you?
Without a doubt those times spent finding time for me really went a long way towards making me feel more energised. I took bubble baths this year, I found twenty minutes to work out, I wrote fiction, I painted, I attempted Nanowrimo and started attended a local writing group and I tried very hard to not let myself feel quilty about having this time just for me. That was something I told myself I couldn’t have as a mom but I was wrong. These times were imporatnt to keep me sane and I think they make me a better mom and wife.
What made me happy?
The times that I spent playing with the kids this year. I’m not big on play but these times made them so happy that it made me happier- I am trying to loosen up when it comes to this and the times when I do make a big difference in our day.
What made me feel at peace?
My relationship with God has been strained this year, I’ve just felt a little disconnected for some reason. And this has made me feel really quilty in a way that makes it hard to even approach Him. The times I’ve felt most at peace though, have been those times when I let myself approach Him anyway. There is a soothing and a rest that comes from these moments for me. (That’s something I wish I would remember more often!)
What positive people lifted you up?
Other writers have really given me a lift this year, a positive word here and there has really gone a long way to make me feel better about putting myself out there. SAM from My Write Side especially, you really helped me get over my fear of writing again, I thank you!
What filled your tank?
See above under what energised you, add quiet moments spent with my daughters and heart to hearts with my husband.
What worked to bring your family together?
We’ve learned to recognize our children as little people all on their own. I think The Kid starting school this year really brought that about and it made me look at her and Gizmo and try to see who they really are. We are trying not to compare the two, though of course we do sometimes. They are so different though and special in their own way so it’s neat to find things that suit each one.
What is something that made you feel excited to dive right in to?
Starting A Squid Writes and actually writing there, Nanowrimo, Paint Party Friday.
What did you learn(positive things)?
I learned that kids do not need a lot and that too many choices actually leave them feeling overwhelmed and stressed. That’s been huge. I put away a lot of their toys and books switch them out now. I also limit the amount of clothes taht they have out at one time. This has made for much easier mornings when they choose what they want to wear and easier nights when we put everything up and away.
What are you greatful for?
My family and our life. I am greatful that we don’t need a lot to be happy and I hope that we always know this, that we take the time to build our connection up and not focus so much on other things that we may not have
Do you want to join too? The linky starts Monday, just follow this button to find out more:
January 9, 2012 at 9:16 am -
i love that as a family you have such great values that you don’t need much to be happy. That is seriously awesome x
Lyndal recently posted..It’s all about the little things…
January 9, 2012 at 1:58 pm -
Thanks Lyndal! I won’t say money never matters but as long as the basics are covered it’s not the key to happiness- I’m learning that.
January 10, 2012 at 9:08 am -
Love your post – definitely don’t feel guilty about all those great things you did that energised you. So many parents put themselves last instead of first – if we take care of and energise ourselves we have more to give our family!
so great to “meet” you and have you on the journey with us
Deb @ Home life simplified recently posted..Simplify your life {Week 2: Define your Personal Values}
January 10, 2012 at 10:19 pm -
I really agree with that now, I just have to shut off the voices that make me feel guilty sometimes. I’m so happy that you started all of this- I’m trying to think up y values post now—something that will help me tons in the future I think!
January 10, 2012 at 1:26 pm -
Congratulations on moving forward with your writing dreams and taking care of yourself!
I’ve learned the same when it comes to choices for the kids. The same goes for my husband too, funnily enough.
Jayne recently posted..The IBOT post that wasn’t.
January 10, 2012 at 10:21 pm -
Thank you! My husband could do with some streamlining (He has more clothes then I do!) but I just let it be(for now