Resolutions? No...Declarations!

There are only a few hours until the new year is upon us. Many of you are getting dressed up for parties, already at your friend's home where hearty soup is on the stove, or on the way to some cool restaurant that I've only heard...while I sit here in the comfort of the Little Blue Bungalow. I suppose I should give you some wonderful perspective on resolutions or maybe some of the highlights of 2008. But, atlas, I'm feeling a bit uninspired, but I'll do my best.

I, too, should be getting ready to head over to friend's house, but find myself singing to the radio, making biscuits with Fiona, and browsing on the computer. Frankly, I'm shocked another year has come to the close. It seems like just yesterday I was ringing in the new year at Target (previous employer 1998-2001) in 2000 on the Y2 committee since we all seemed the world was going to explode. (What in the world were we thinking?)

After 33 years, I've come to understand that resolutions or "goals" are only achieved if you want to succeed. For me, some of the best goals or resolutions are the ones not made New Years Eve. For instance, mid-May this year I decided enough was enough with my health and joined the YMCA. Kick starting my health mid-year has been a blessing for me...I have more energy, confidence, and everything else has seemed to fall into place in my little world.

And now I don't have to dread January. As I was working out (OK...make that getting my butt kicked!) this morning in a step class, it "hit" me. Tomorrow, I don't have to worry about starting an exercise program, loosing weight, and getting healthy. I'm already doing it! I didn't put it off for another year...I started my goal when I realized I was miserable with me. (Yes...I just wrote that. Being overweight spills into so many aspects of your life. Trust me, I know. I have a long way to go but at least on the up and coming...watch out world as I start running 5Ks this summer!)

You see, resolutions don't have to "magically" start on January 1st. Make them start when you need them and make them count. Don't just make "loose" comments about your ideals for next year with goals you'll never be able to achieve. Make them count or as my pastor, Jeff Knight, said on Sunday make a "declaration". DECLARE that you'll live a healthier lifestyle, be a better mom, reconnect with those that you've lost touch with. Get the idea?

No one could make me loose the weight and start exercising. You have to want it yourself. You can have the best workout partner, trainer, etc...but only if YOU want to make it your goal will you succeed. I think I can officially say I WANT a better life. What do you want?

So...I guess when you see me at the YMCA on January 2nd, don't assume I'm working on my New Years resolution. No. I'm working on my DECLARATION that I started in May 2008. I've got a long way to go, but I'm making strides in the right direction and you are welcome to join me for the run.

From inside the little blue bungalow,
Katie Jean