I want my kids to look back and think:
- I'm glad we went to church and learned about God and what he wants for us and out of us. (I didn't have that...as a matter of fact, I feel really stupid when I talk to people b/c I don't know what any of the books in the Bible are about. That's not right."
- I'm glad that my mom and step-dad always told me how much they loved me and that they took me to my practices and were there to cheer me on.
- We had so much fun as a family, I want my kids to do the same.
- I want to be successful, but not at the sacrifice of my family.
- I am so thankful they taught me how to handle money properly.
- I want to help others, the same way my mom and step-dad did, as a family.
- I want my kids to have the same kind of memories and parents that I did.
So, how do I achieve this? Well, for starters....(I like bullet points)
- Start saying no, and if I can't say no, I need to be able to include the whole family or it doesn't happen.
- Clear out the crap. We have this thought process that we NEED all of this STUFF. When I die, are my kids going to keep the stuff? NO. They are going to keep the family items like: pictures, keep sakes, etc. They aren't going to keep the box of rags. They aren't going to keep the pile of crap dishes that not even I use. They are not going to keep all the utensils that do nothing.
- What can't be cleared out, like pictures...oh, so many pictures, make a home for them. The pile of pallets that I drug home from work to make that nifty garden that turned out to be a pain in the ass...use them! Make a damn shelf and paint it or stain it and put the things that really matter on there...not in freaking totes waiting for a photo album.
- Have a list. I have noticed that since I have taken on so much, my mind has become cluttered. I forget stuff. So...have list, clear mind. Simple.
- MAKE time for the family and myself.
- Remind myself that while I love my job, some days it really sucks, and that those too shall pass.
- Tithe and go to church. Listen to God's word. Get involved in the church...AS A FAMILY!
- Be present.
When we get home, Faith and Austin (aka The twins), Matt (aka Husband) and Gavin (aka The one that will take me out) can help me do our family scrapbook for vacation. WE can sit down and pick out the pictures. WE can go for walks. WE can sit at the table and share our day. WE can spend time together- As a family.
So, the things that I have stressed about are not stress anymore. God has plans. I wake up on time...most days, and I try to drive the speed limit. I talk to God and admire the sky, not curse at it b/c its raining when I don't want it to or its cold or windy. I admire the amazing thing that is Mother Nature. Its beautiful...no matter the conditions. I find time to sit down and spend it with my family and my husband. I find time for family and friends...not stuff.