There is something about a new year that is refreshing, not only mentally, physically, but also spiritually. We have a rather large list of changes we want to make. Some we know are necessary, such as those pertaining to spiritual growth, physical health, mental well-being. Other changes involve our home furnishings and decor, our wardrobes and landscaping. Always something new, something different! Out with the old, in with the new! But if the old has served you well, maybe it's ok to relax and just "let it be". Like, "flowers that bloom in the spring, tra la!"
Changes that aren't truly necessary, but just fun to do, are on my list, just not at the very top. I want to re-do my "room". This room, floor-plan-wise known as the den or office, is used for multi-tasking: piano, computer desk, filing cabinet, storage cabinet, scrapbook cart, small storage table, desk used for sewing and storage and finally, a 6-shelf kind-of bookcase that just has a lot of stuff on it. My plan is to go shabby chic in here...refinish wood pieces in white and give it that aged look, and get rid of some of these pieces and replace with Victorian style bookcases, hutches, or cabinets. Change out the light fixture and add an area rug. Will do before and after pictures if in fact, I get to it this spring.
Other changes in this category, are to donate clothing. I like clothes and take advantage of some great sales, and have been known to "save" a sale item for a year or more before wearing it. The problem is in recycling clothes that are in good shape that I haven't worn for some time.
There are about 35 to 50 books that I have meant to read during the past 5 years, and seldom get to. One problem is making (actually taking) the time. I feel guilty if I'm sitting down reading, instead of up doing. There's always something to be done, a phone call to be made, someone to visit or invite. Another problem, is that when I had cataract surgery a few years ago, a problem occurred during the surgery on my left eye, and I have had trouble easily reading since then.
I enjoy so many things, and need to change that...meaning, choose a couple for this year and forget the rest. Projects started and others I'd like to start, include a rag rug, crocheting, scrapbooking, oil painting, sewing, beading, redecorating, quilting, ribbon embroidery, plus hobbies like playing the piano, reading and photography. Plus, we joined a gym, and need to get started! Along with these pleasures, are commitments to other things I enjoy, mostly involving my church, but also a birthday club and some mentoring. So you see, trying to work this in, along with housework, grocery shopping, laundry and blah, blah, blah ad nauseum, makes me just like the rest of you...BUSY! I am learning to actually hate that word.
So as far as physical well-being, we are careful with our diet, have joined the gym and get regular check-ups. Mentally, we're aging, what can I say? I do things that are supposed to keep those brain cells going and time will tell! As far as spiritual growth, that is the most exciting and the easiest to do. My hubby and I are not using a devotional book this year for our together time. We decided to daily read the chronological Through the Bible in a Year book. So we each have one, and daily read during our own preferred time, and then sit down together and discuss what we've read. Do a little research if necessary. I have found that going through the Bible in a Year with someone else, makes it stick more. The focus is greater, because it's going to be discussed. I'm not just sitting down and making sure I spend 15 or more minutes daily...you know, get in that "dose for the day" mentality. How funny when we get in that mode...for example, sitting next to someone in church whose Bible is well marked, underlined, highlighted, and yours is bare and you just MUST explain that you have a new Bible...that's why it looks so new! :) I do have a new one, so I understand this feeling. I purchased a Holman Apologetics Study Bible and am enjoying it very much. Spiritual growth doesn't come just with a new year, but daily. More on that in another post. Exciting things happening!
As a mom, grandma and great-grandma, I know how quickly time passes. Things change, some remain the same. Friendships are valuable, but some come to an end. These are friends for a season, and you always come away having learned something of value, even though it might have been a hurtful parting. God's children come in many colors, sizes, shapes, personalities and with diverse needs. Some are rich, some poor, ill/healthy, outgoing/introverted, fighting the flesh/fighting the flesh, judging/accepting and on and on. God has permitted some situations in the past few years that have brought me to my knees with a deeper understanding of the purpose of forgiveness. Freedom! Not only receiving His forgiveness but also forgiving yourself and others. And never weighing whether they deserve it from us.
Well, friends, have much to do today, but may add a couple of pictures, just for fun. One picture of a little bear I put together at a store in the mall. Have named her Gertie and she will be given to my next granddaughter. More later!
