Well....it's been a while...I am parenting teenagers!

I can happily say that I am not going backwards on my new year's resolutions...however, I am not leaping forward in huge bounds with those goals, but I am making baby steps. 

I have not managed to run 3 x per week (on the street), but I have gotten back to the gym.  Even when I am crunched for time, I have convinced myself that a fast run for 20 min. is better than not getting there at all! 

I am shifting my attitude on several things (more on that in the days to come), and realizing that often it is just the perspective that I use that blocks achieving my goals. 

Today, I am wondering about parenting teenagers.  I have 2!  Both are daughters!  They are wonderful kids--very smart, very considerate of others (outside of family, that is), compassionate and caring.  All of this is good!  But, sometimes, I do not know what to do with them. 

I am afraid that I have taught them to consider others before themselves; and to over-commit themselves to too many things; and to cave to high anxiety when they are afraid that they want get their work finished to their level of perfection.  I am, also, afraid that I haven't taught them enough about being responsible and reasonable, or taking care of what they have. 

For most of their lives, I have believed that if they know they are loved, that really is the most important thing.  I still believe that!  But, sometimes I wonder if I haven't taught them other essentials. 

Today has been a difficult day of too many projects to complete, too much homework, and stress from the pressure.  I have been fussed at and have fussed back.  (I am human!) We all have said things that we should not have.  But as we prepare for bed, I know that I am loved by them; and I hope they know that they are loved by me....I will tell them, just to be sure!

My daughters are wonderful!  I look at them and see smart, charming, witty, compassionate, caring, beautiful young women.  

Maybe I should just be thankful that they know my love is secure enough to survive a stressed anxiety outburst!

making progress in 2011

I have completed 2 unfinished knitting projects, that I discovered in the mess of my closet--a washcloth and a scarf.  Not big projects, but now they are finished. 
I ran/walked 3 miles yesterday, so I need to work 2 more of those in this week--i am thinking tomorrow and saturday!
No further progress to report at this time, but I am seeking ideas for knitted Christmas gifts (for Xmas 2011) that are appropriate for males and females, especially gifts that do not use huge amounts of yarn. 

Cleaned out my closet yesterday! Discovered I have LOTS of yarn... I think I will start working on next years christmas presents. Had brunch with good friends.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!
I am looking forward to many things this year--simplifying my household, taking better care of myself, and focusing on relationships.

Getting ready for the Thanksgiving 5K helped me to realize that when I want to do something, I can do it.

Some of my goals for the coming year:
(ok, it is funny....I have several goals inside of me, that I have been musing over for a few days, but I am finding it hard to put them "down on paper" and let you know what they are....ummmm, what does that say about these goals?   Is it fear of failure?  Fear that you will think I am crazy?  or what?  I believe it is that you will know what my goals are and then I will have to be more diligent.   Oh well, here goes--if you think I am crazy, you are probably right! :-)  If I do not succeed at my goals, it will not be for not trying, and that alone is success!  So, here they are:)

• To run at least 3 miles at least 3 times per week, and train for another 5K (soon), when I am settled into the 5K, then I will strive for a longer race (8K, 10K....not sure I want to go for the 1/2 marathon yet; that will be a part of my 6 mos. evaluation.)
• To lose some weight, at least 25 lbs.
• Help my daughters and husband realize how wonderful they are.--Not sure how to do this, but will be working on it.
• To set up my own business---yes, as clergy I am self-employed, but I want to take this a step further.  I am a wonderful coach and an amazing group facilitator, I want to put these to work for me.  I am certain there will be more of that on my blog in the coming weeks.
• Clean out my closet. (maybe today!)
• Clean out my attic. (before it gets too hot!)
• Have a small group of friends over at least once per month, and have a party at least once per quarter. 
• Find out more about what is going on in the lives of those around me.

I think that is enough to get me started!

Now, to wrap up some of the end of 2010--

• pictures of the butterfly costume (sorry I do not have very good ones, because once the costume was finishced I was so busy, I didn't have much time to pick up a camera!)

this is the "butterfly" with "Clara" and "Fritz"

This is the "butterfly" with "Marzipan" (I didn't make the Marzipan costume.)
Happy New year!