Monday, January 11, 2010

Bring it on...

I'm talking about the year people! It's a whole new year, in case you haven't noticed, and I have been thinking long and hard the past few weeks about a lot of things. I have decided that I'm not going to make any resolutions in 2010 just for the sheer truth that I know I won't keep them and don't want to disappoint myself :) But what I have decided to do instead is to change my way of thinking. It all started right before Christmas when I had a small emotional breakdown/through about the craziness that has become our holidays. I was stressing out way too much about getting everything together-gifts, food, something to wear, etc.-and I had one of those "AHA" moments that made me think. When I got home, I had the newsletter from our church and it had one of the best messages in it-it was just what I needed. It talked about how much life would change if we gave each other different gifts (other than the material ones we are used to). Gifts such as: Forgiveness, Respect, Admiration, Friendship, Encouragement, Humor, Kindness, Love, Gratitude, Recognition, Compassion & Understanding. WOW! These things don't cost a penny, yet we neglect giving these things to the people we hold most dear (and some we don't). So this year, I am going to try my hardest to give these gifts to those around me. I am truly blessed beyond belief-I have more than I ever deserve-but know so many who need these gifts and don't have anyone in their lives to receive them from. I don't personally know everyone's story or what is going on in their lives or what they believe in. You may not believe in God, or even the same God I believe in, but as a Christian I am charged with sharing what I know about Him with others and giving the gifts I mentioned before would be the best way I know how. I am by no means perfect, and I know at times in the past I have failed at LOTS of these, but this year I have decided to focus on giving to others what I have been so richly blessed with. And as for the age-old resolutions: eat better, exercise, get out more--I will work on that as soon as it warms up outside!!!

And here is an obligatory Caleb pic-since that is of course why you are here!
Chillin in his recliner (courtesy of Aunt Donna). Yes he is double fisting with the beverages and yes, he is not wearing any pants, and yes, that is his duck call sitting with him. What a boy!

Have a great week!

4 comments:

Bobbie said...

Wow - thought that was Bo for a second!

Seriously, your blog really touched me. We should all have the same resolve this year. Think I'll try to do the same thing! Thanks for reminding me.

gj said...

This was a beautiful post, and you are so right!

ps, you did leave out one thing about the Caleb pic...and yes I have my mommy's baby legs.

haha!
Love ya,
gj

Anonymous said...

Thanking you for sharing your blog. It touched me and you are so right. I'm going to work on this myself.
I luv the pic of Caleb kicked back in his chair.
Love ya,
Kim

Jessica Conway said...

So sweet - and totally right - love you more than my luggage!