New Ventures of mine in 2014

I've come to realize that when I don't spend time doing things I enjoy, I am not the happiest mom and it shows.  So this year, I've started a few things in this aspect which although have to do with me, have more to do with others: 

1) Part-time work in a field I LOVE!

I started back at work (just 10 hours a week-while David is home and while the kids nap) I'll be doing home-based therapy for families. This will not only help me keep my juices flowing from the 8 years of higher education I endured but is also my passion. It also gets me out of the house a bit while bringing in extra income which benefits our family as a whole.  David has already commented how much happier I seem. I've also noticed that when I return from work, I feel more motivated to be more "present" as a mom.  I've always enjoyed the work I do and feel meant and called for roles such as these so I guess when I'm walking in that calling, the effects of it are felt in other aspects of my life as well. Win-Win!

2) Leading a young adult community group

Starting this Tuesday, I'll be starting as a leader of an Emerge young-adult community group-ladies only.  This has been on my heart for some time now but with 3 kids ages 4 and under, 1 of whom exclusively nurses, I didn't think it was possible for me to commit or serve in a ministry setting---this opportunity however came along and after much prayer and discussion with David, seems to just fit. So 3 times a month, i'll be meeting with college-aged girls down the street from my home (after I have dinner with David and the kids). We will meet at Dunkin Donuts to discuss life, maybe go through a curriculum (if that happens), pray and grow together. While I"m out, David will take his turn getting the kids bathed and ready for bed those nights (since he works evenings and isn't home for that part most of the week).  I'll return home in time to wish them good-nite and hang out with David until our bedtime. 

3) Making time for fitness

 I've started a January Ab challenge. It takes just a few minutes a day--but these days, that seems to be all that I can commit to. It's day 25 and already, people have commented on how thin I look. My arms and abs have been sore since day 2 and it feels great! I hope to stick with a similar challenge each month for the rest of the year! Hopefully once the weather get's better, i'll turn to running again as I long for those days when I would run like the wind along the serene and beautiful nature trails listening to the birds chirp in the crisp air.


What are things you will be starting in 2014?