New Years Bliss

Happy New Year everyone!!

Crazy that 2013 has come and gone, and rather quickly too. But never the less, I am grateful that 2014 is here, and with that a new start to a new year! 

As the festivities wore on on New Year's Eve, I found myself looking back at the year, as many others did. This year I spent NYE watching the Royal Wedding (yes, I am that much of an Anglophile) with a friend, relaxing and watching as Ryan Seacrest counted down to the New Year. One of my dear friends and I chatted about the past year; it's ups and downs, the most memorable moments, and the not-so-memorable moments. It was good to have a conversation that was very honest and genuine about the past and our own hopes for 2014. 

At the stroke of midnight, the fireworks could be heard going off from the city, and in that moment, the world seemed to swirl. The past collided with the present and spun viral into the future.  In some ways I love hearing the fireworks on New Years Eve. It's an exciting fanfare announcing the New Year. And yet it is the sound of a blast, quickly leaving behind the events of a long ago year. 

As my friend and I sat and talked about the New Year, we talked about our own Resolutions and wishes for the New Year. I've never quite been all gung-ho about making Resolutions but I prefer to think of them as something I do to better myself. 

So, here are a few of my own New Years Resolutions, or goals. 

1. Continue with a year-long project.  (2013 was the Blessings Jar, this year will be the Prayer Box!)
2. Run a Half-Marathon. I absolutely love running. I have begun to build up my endurance and would love to challenge myself with a Half-Marathon this year!
3. Be Intentional. This means taking time to disconnect myself with technology. Spend quality time with friends and family.
4. Write More Letters. One of my favourite things at college is to receive hand-written letters. There is nothing better than receiving a letter that someone took time to write to you! I was pretty good about writing letters at the beginning of this year, but grew a little lax. Time to make sure I stay on top of communication!
5. Dance More. Life is full of joy, so why not dance? :)
6. Do what makes you happy. We only have one life to live, so my goal is to make sure that I do what makes me happy. Life is short and we don't have time to waste it on trivial things that waste time. "Do What you Like, Like What You Do." -Life Is Good Company
7. Listen More. Take time to limit what you say. Sometimes the best learning experiences come from just opening up your heart and mind.
8. Climb some new mountains. Sometimes taking risks is okay! Look at things from a new perspective. One of the most powerful moments from 2013 for me was staring down from the top of a mountain at it's peak above treeline. Everything is small, and looking at the world you realize how vast it is. It really puts things in to perspective. It is good to look at things from new perspectives!
9. Board Games are Great. This is my simple one of limiting the time spent in front of the TV. 
10. Drink More Tea. For me, tea is always a viable option. :)

What are your New Year's Resolutions? 

I challenge you this year to find what is good for your soul and do it. Live and Love every moment. Learn even from the toughest times. Try to seek out Joy in the ordinary. 

It's a New Year! Time to rejoice!

Wishing you nothing but Joy, Peace, Love, and Good Health in this the new year!!