a brand new world...

A brand new world...or just a brand new year.  Whatever works though, right?

I decided that I would start doing a 'thankfulness' type of journal, among other things.

2013, so far, has different ideas for me.  But I'm trying to take it all in stride.  Less than 24 hours into 2013 I am dealing with personal health issues (still recovering from a tonsilectomy 3 weeks ago), a sick kiddo (possible flu), a car that is not functioning properly, a dad that can fix it but is down with the flu, school starting in less than a week, and my ever present desire to make this year so much more than the last.

So...for Day 1 of 2013 I am thankful that I am able to take this stress in a peaceful manner and know that God has great things in store for me.  That the storm comes before the calm, and that I have gotten through the last 3 years, I know without a doubt that I can make it through this stress like it's nothing. 

I also have goals for 2013.  Not resolutions, because we all break them.  I set goals that I WILL accomplish and complete before the end of the year.  And if for whatever reason I don't, I am not going to beat myself up over them.  I will simply know that I did everything in my power to make them happen.

These goals include (in no particular order):
- Completing two 5k's.  Specifically the Color Run 5k's in both Ypslianti and Grand Rapids this summer.  (if you have never heard of the Color Run, do yourself a favor and visit their website at http://thecolorrun.com ...I did it last year and had SSSOOO much fun!!!) 

- Completing a half marathon in September.  Yes...13.1 miles.  I know exactly what this entails, and am under no illusions that it is going to be an easy task, but I am well aware of the reward of completing it.  And am looking forward to it.

- Blogging on a regular basis.  And working on a book (or two...)

- Focusing more on deepening my relationship with God. 

- Reading more. 

- Losing weight.  (obviously I can't train for a half marathon without losing some weight...I have a goal in mind, but will be happy with whatever I end up with.  I just want to teach my son healthy habits, and be able to keep up with him, and most importantly be able to stay around as long as possible for him.

I have a few more goals but they're either not super important, or not set in stone, or any variety of reasons why I don't want to post them here.  I want to be open and honest, but I also have to cover my rear in certain areas of my life as well.  I'm praying that will one day change.  Living three steps ahead of someone, or multiple someones, is exhausting at times.  And beyond fristrating, but is necessary and warranted at this point in my life.