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Monday, December 29, 2008

Whew! Goodbye 2008

It is hard to believe how different my life is today vs. last year or even a few months ago. We had Christmas week off and I didn't even THINK about homeschooling. I didn't crack a single book the entire week that had anything to do with homeschooling. I already have my list of things to buy for next year, some of which are dependent on whether Danny will be at home or not so those will be bought later in the year.

Let's see, we're in our 3rd year of homeschooling and this is the first time I haven't been consumed (in my thoughts) by homeschooling in 3 years. Working has been good for me, I've lost 8lbs. and my self-image/esteem has been boosted. There are just some things in life that have to happen - in some way or the other to maintain a healthy outlook on life, if some things gets off-kilter then rectifying it is so freeing!

I'm unable to discuss my life as I would like. With homeschooling, I'll be doing our weekly reports each week but I don't really have much else to talk about that I can share freely on a public blog. I'm not obsessing about which curriculum is best or what we should do about a certain subject...we're just doing the work and having fun.

I hope today we'll accomplish a nature walk since we haven't done one in a month, I figured it would be a great way to start off the week. Last year I posted about what the kids got for Christmas, this year...I just don't think it's important. They did get way too much from extended family. I received money for Christmas and for the first time since I can remember- I spent it ALL on me. In the past, the money would pay a bill or get the kids something they needed but didn't get for Christmas, homeschooling curricula/supplies or towards groceries. Not this year. I spent every last cent on me and it feels GOOD. (James Brown GOOD)

This coming new year is going to be filled with change for me and I'm excited. I think it's going to be a year of healthy change, a time to accomplish goals and move towards a more healthy lifestyle in all areas.

For 2009 I resolve to give myself permission to BE. This year I resolve to reduce the limits I put on myself. I resolve to be GOOD to myself.

Usually I would put a bunch of justifications on why I should be good to myself but goodness gracious...why? Smile.

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11 comments:

the striped rose said...

Sounds good, Jessica.
Have a happy new year.
if you ever want to vent, email me
micheletbruce@gmail.com

Michele

Andrea said...

Awesome attitude with which to start a new year! And 8 pounds to boot!! How'd ya do that when the rest of us were throwing down cookies and pies?? :-D
We took off 3 weeks (for my own sanity!!). The last 2 were for Christmas but this coming one is for me to buckle down and get back into the homeschooling planning and prep. It sure was nice to not have to think about it for a little while though, huh?
Have a wonderful New Year!
Blessings,
Andrea

ChristineMM said...

Jessica you don't need to justify why you need to be good to yourself!

I hope that you can concentrate on gratitude and feeling the good emotions despite whatever negative or imperfect things you are dealing with.

As Stephen Covey says we should all be dealing with the big rocks first.

Being good and 'good enough' is fantastic and no one is perfect. From reading between the lines of your blog I got the impression you are a perfectionist. Not sure if you are. I know I am one but am trying to not be one. LOL.

Happy New Year a bit in advance!

Marsha said...

I have to admit Jessica, I do the same thing when I'm given money or gift cards. But I too spent them on myself this year and it does feel good.

Good luck with all of your endeavors for 2009 and don't think about justify to anyone just live life to its fullest.

Emmy said...

Yay for you spending your christmas money on yourself! Enjoy! Happy New Year Jessica!

Anonymous said...

I have been 2 months without a computer and just had a minute to "catch up" and read a few of your back posts. I wanted to take just a minute to encourage you regarding your college classes. I FINALLY completed my bachelor's degree in May 2007. It took me 3 years to complete (I had started years ago), AND I had 2 babies during the time I was a student! If I can do it, YOU can do it! You are so organized, which is one reason I visit your site regularly. I REALLY need help in that area. Keep your eye on the goal--- it feels so good when you finally hold that diploma in hand!
Happy New Year!

Jennefer said...

Happy New Year, Jessica! I hope this is your best year yet and please know that I'm cheering for you. :)

Anonymous said...

HI Jessica ~ your blog always inspires me so. I hope it is ok that I listed you as getting an 'I LOVE YOUR BLOG' award from me. You can find out the details of it on my blog. I know some folks are tagfree/awardfree- I haven't seen that on here, so I hope it is ok. If not, I apologize - but I still love your blog!

Christa
Fairfield Corner Academy

Classical Conversations said...

Just a note to say you have a beautiful blog - I enjoyed browsing through it!

-1 Smart Mama
http://1smartmama.blogspot.com

Sheryl said...

Jessica,
wonderful post and well felt. I too have realized how I have neglected "me" way too much in the past 8 years. I am actually starting to take a night off each week where I can go and do as I please. No grocery stores or library trips for school though. I am even trying to sign up for a pottery class. I feel as though I am coming alive again..is that crazy? Here's to a new year full of discovery and allowing ourselves to be still or to dance, whateve is in our hearts.
Sheryl in GA

my5wolfcubs said...

Hi Jessica! I wanted to share a Maria Montessori quote that made me think of you: "We especially need imagination in science. It is not all mathematics, nor all logic, but it is somewhat beauty and poetry." Jan 6th is the anniversary of the opening of her first school in Rome in 1907. This is from my "Learning Calendar" for tomorrow...I keep peeking ahead!

Today was our first day back to school -- the kids are now outside in the sunshine...only one dd has history left to do. I'm going to join them and just BE. :)

Lee