Looking Forward, Pressing On.

...but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on... Philippians 3-13-14

2008 was a pretty good year for me. I was very blessed in most aspects of my life. I made some new friends, strengthened some existing friendships and let go of ones that weren't worth keeping. I celebrated my first wedding anniversary, took my sister to New York for her 21st birthday, met my future brother-in-law, got a great raise at work and managed to lose some pounds. Last year's resolutions focused on becoming more healthy and reading more books. I managed to accomplish both goals! I aimed to read 24 books last year and I am elated to say that I have just finished up book 31! I am proud of my accomplishments and thankful for all of the blessings I have received.

This year as 2009 begins, I am looking forward to seeing what is in store for the Holloway family. Brent and I begin our 2nd year of marriage and celebrate 8 years of being together. We have Jami's (Brent's sister) wedding this summer and our vacation out west to tour some of our favorite vineyards. In addition to all of those fun things, I have made a few resolutions to focus on this year. On my list of resolutions:

1. Learn to live in the moment. I am the Queen of looking forward and thinking back. While there is nothing wrong with dreaming and reminiscing, I feel like I miss out the here and now at times. So this year, I resolve to participate in my daily life instead of anticipating what's coming next.

2. Move forward in my healthy living goals. Continue to focus on exercising, eating properly and being the best version of me that I can, physically, mentally and emotionally.

3. Attend Church regularly. I've become back-slidden as us Methodists call it. This year I will focus on growing my relationship with God and seeking out a Sunday School class.

4. Give back. I will focus on finding my niche in the world. While I don't expect to solve this one in 12 short months, I do expect to make some progress. We all have things worthy of giving, and I want to find mine.

5. Live more simply.

I've got some work to do. So here's to a 2009 filled with peace, love, hope, happiness and the ability to weather whatever storms may come! Happy New Year!