Eve

The girl is running around the house singing, "You look like a lady!" I can't decide if this is a parenting victory or a parenting fail (the lyrics are wrong, after all, and yet the actual lyrics are not appropriate). Still, it is better than singing a Bieber song, I decide.  Parenting victory.

The boys are chasing each other around like maniacs, tackling instead of tagging. I guess everyone is finally feeling healthy again. Joey's appetite is back to normal.  Well, normal for a horse.  The kid is eating everything in sight. I guess he is trying to make up for lost time.

Even though I had cancelled our little New Years Eve party due to the sickies I think I may be able to pull something together last minute.  The kids get wind of this and the energy level in the house kicks up another notch.

Hors d'oeuvres are planned, games are picked out, and movies are rented.  I think we are ready for some fun.

As I begin making my hors d'oeuvres I find When Harry Met Sally on tv, followed by When A Man Loves a Woman.  Score! This just got fun.

My mind wanders as I'm busy in the kitchen. I reflect back on our year and think about the new year that is about to start.

I contemplate possible resolutions but once again find that I don't feel the need for resolutions. There are things to work on. Definitely. I could start running again. I could eat better. I must continue to work on my temper. On patience. On many things. But in the end I just don't believe in resolutions.

Instead I focus on each day.

I think of a word to focus on. One word that I will chant to myself when life gets overwhelming or stressful. A word that I will remind myself of when my temper flairs and my patience fails.

I toss around ideas.  Peace. Joy. Still. Love. See. Calm. Breathe. Peace. Pause. Quiet. Think. Heart. Serene. Silence. Listen.

Breathe.  Yes.  Breathe jumps out at me.

When life gets busy. Breathe. When my temper flares.  Breathe.  When life is full and good.  Breathe it in.  Appreciate each moment.  Breathe.

That's my word. In the new year I will breathe. I will pause. I will take it in.  I'm ready for the new year.

Whether you make resolutions, pick a word, go out and party, or stay at home, I hope you all have a wonderful New Years Eve and an even better New Year. I hope 2014 brings contentment, peace, love, happiness, and joy to you all.

Happy New Year!