2012 Goals Update: May-October

It’s been a Looong time since I’ve updated you on our progress toward meeting our goals for 2012. Something about having a baby that’s been a bit distracting. ;)

This update covers 6 months (oops!) so there’s no way I’m going to remember every little thing, nor would you want to read all of that! Still, for accountability’s sake, I’ll give you a quick run through.

Finances

We knocked out our goal of purchasing a van, and paying for all that comes with it (including a flat tire last month! ugh!) early in the year. Our kids eat a LOT, so we’ve increased our monthly budget and utilized our Costco and Azure Standard memberships more.

To make up the difference, I became an Independent Consultant with Lilla Rose, and it’s been wonderful! We’ve made it a goal to invest and grow the business this year so that we really see a return next year. I love the products, and they sell easily, so it’s been no problem at all growing my customer base!

I have had so much success, actually, that we’ve decided to pursue some vendor shows and even the farmer’s market in 2013 (Lord willing). If you live in the area, be sure to stop by the Winter Wonderland Shopping Spectacular in Lee’s Summit on December 2nd- I’ll be there with almost 60 other vendors! (Link is to the Facebook event page, I’ll post a flier on here when the event gets closer.)

Lifestyle

My Total Home Makeover was a HUGE personal success. Reading that book really gave me focus and helped me to form some habits that are making a difference in our overall peace at home. It also motivated me to purge and organize things that I’ve been storing and ignoring. We’re potentially going in on a yard sale with friends before the year is out, too! I have a happy husband. :)

Spiritual Growth 

Bible time with the kids has been so great for me! We’ve read through The Beginner’s Bible, My ABC Bible Verses, and the Jesus Storybook Bible so far this year. Up next is the Word & Song Bible. If you want to see the other things I’ve been reading for encouragement, check out my Goodreads.

Mothering

One word – COFFEE! Seriously, I’ve discovered that the world is infinitely more manageable after a cup (or two or three) of coffee! I’ve never been a regular coffee drinker before, but even Rob has noticed that it makes me a nicer mom!

Beyond that, life with my littles has been so sweet. No words necessary, look at these guys!

Health

Well, I unfortunately got a terrible case of thrush just days after Alex was born. It caused awful, deep pain in my breasts and made nursing almost unbearable. We pushed through it, but I’ve had to completely give up sugar and most carbs again. I *think* I’m pretty much in the clear now, and have added fruit back into my diet.

My pregnancy weight has finally begun coming off. I think the yeast/thrush put that on hold for a while. I gained 50lbs during Alex’s pregnancy and I’ve got 15 more to lose until I’m at my pre-pregnancy weight. My goal is to get STRONG this time around – make sure to read to the end for my plans!

Writing

I’m excited to announce that I am officially a contributor at Renee’s Joy Journey! I’m looking forward to working with Renee – who is already one of my favorite people. :)

I’ve also submitted works elsewhere and am waiting to hear back. I’m motivated to really go for it, and I want to keep up the momentum. Expect more news soon!

Reading

Yeah, my list completely went out the window! I’ve enjoyed reading books aloud to the kids (Winnie the Pooh and Paddington have been favorites), and reading lots of other books that have come across my radar recently. Again, check out my Goodreads.

*****

My word of the year has been FOCUS. The Lord has been faithful to grow this in me. I feel less distractable (which is part of the reason the blog has been more neglected), and have a better vision for our family’s future.

Instead of continuing updates like this one, I’ve decided to maintain a “bucket list.” Specifically, after turning 29 (!!!) in the beginning of October, I decided to make a “30 before 30″ list. Rob helped me make goals for myself and I’ve added a tab up at top of the page. You can also get to my 30 Before 30 list here.