simple new year

We began 2011 simply. With friends and family - eating too much, playing euchre and all the while watching required new year TV, Dick Clark and the Rose Parade.

A family member asked me what my New Years Resolution was and I had no answer.

So, am I entering 2011 with no new goals or plans to improve in some way? I plan to give this some thought and prayer. I do think new goals are important mostly because it takes some level of self evaluation to identify what is lacking in your life. But, I hesitate to launch into some new routine just because it is a new year. I would really like to keep it simple in 2011 following a year of college graduations and weddings. A simple new year - sounds so good to me!

I would absolutely love to know if you make resolutions AND if you keep them. Leave us a comment to get the discussion going!

reflections

What is it about the new year that causes us to take a look back, and in most cases consider making changes for the new year?

I guess everyone loves a new beginning...

I have a lot to finish this year. A lot to evaluate - is it worth more time investment - or should I let it die? This requires prayer. But, more than that it requires truly giving it to God - not just praying about it, but, laying my year at His feet.

I make it sound like I have earth shattering things to consider, that is not the impression I want to give you. It's just regular stuff mixed with a few new opportunities if I feel God really telling me to develop these things. They are things that take additional leadership time investment. I think my team can help other ministries - but, is that arrogant thinking or is it God's leading to reach out beyond our own Crossroad walls? A lot to decide, so I start praying again - over and over I pray. For focus, for answers, for signs from God. But, for now I'll wait and try really hard to just start organizing so room for His answers exist.

Are you preparing for God opportunities this year? Is there space in your life and your dreams?

my head gets full

My head gets full of ideas and it is hard to concentrate! I have so many ideas right now for new groups, new projects, new writings and new relationships to foster that I don't know where to begin.

Most would give me the advice of prioritizing, but all are equally important. Honest! Scheduled events help push me toward decisions. Such as our new art small group that will begin meeting this Thursday. In preparation for this group, I have set aside Tuesday to finish research, project descriptions, follow up contacts with group members etc.

Beyond that it is a toss up! So toss I will, trying not to let a single unproductive moment pass. Don't worry I include the productive moments of rest and study also! Oh yeah, and back to the gym. I want to be in shape for warmer weather so the toning will also begin shortly. I don't know why I put off working out, I accomplish things while working out too - reading or reviewing new music. Overlapping tasks, that is what I like the most.

With God's help the new year holds endless possibilities. So I wait anxiously for the new week to begin, the new list of to-do's to start and the blessings that I know God will bestow upon our ministry this year!