Reflections on 2011 and My 2012 Goals

Reflections on 2011
2011 was a year of blessings and learning through trials, for my family and I.

During 2011:
We bid on two houses,and lost both bids.
My baby turned one.  
Our home was broken into in June.
Our van was broken into in October. 
My husband received a promotion.

God has taught me a lot this year about what is truly important.(and I have so much more to learn!) Earthly goods really can be stolen, and are not where my emphasis should be.  I am so thankful for God's protection over my family and I during the challenging times. The blessings he pours out to me are so much more than I could ever deserve. I am thankful that no matter what happens, He is always teaching me. I am thankful for my little children, who teach me how to forgive, when they pray daily for those who broke into our home and van. It can be easy to tremble at the unknown awaiting me, this upcoming year. But all I need to remember is that my Father will guide me and help me every step of the way.


My 5 Favorite Books Read in 2011:
1. One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp 
2. Grace for the Good Girl by Emily P. Freeman
3. A Love that Multiplies by the Duggars
4. Crazy Love by Francis Chan
5. The Money Saving Mom's Budget by Crystal Paine


My 2012 Goals

As the new year approached, I spent some time pondering what goals I wanted to commit to in the new year. My largest goal is to simply Abide. I want to Abide in Him and to dwell in the present moment. I also decided to set goals in different realms,such as organization, health, walk with God, financial, etc.. Some of these, I have already been implementing and are a continuation of my current goals.

Health
Exercise 30 minutes daily. ( Even walking is great.) This video inspired me to just get moving.

Drink at least one green smoothie daily.

Aim to go to bed as close to 10 pm as possible.

Organization
Declutter the house room by room. Use this calendar to help with this goal. 

Get rid of excess. Sell/Donate unwanted items.

Financial
Continue saving each month.

Look for ways to be a better giver of the talents, time, money, other resources entrusted to us.

Pictures
Take a picture daily in 2012 and create a scrapbook via Shutterfly.

Walk with God
Read through the Bible chronologically.

Read through New Testament with the children.

Journal. I was so inspired by Ann's journal.

Make Scripture memorization a priority.


What lessons did God impress upon your heart in 2011? What were your favorite reads? What are your goals for 2012?

This post is linked to Money Saving Mom's goal post.