FOR THE FUNK OF IT.

these are a few of my favorite things, in no particular order

i’ve never really been one to make new year’s resolutions.  other than the obligatory assignment back in elementary school, i haven’t made a list of resolutions (or kept to one) in years, decades even.  but nine days into 2012 and after a weekend of rest and relaxation (kinda) after my NOLA trip, i’ve decided to jot down a few things that i truly hope to accomplish in the new year.  but, instead of the usual “new beginning” that comes with a new year, this list is more to help me continue to grow, learn, laugh and love.  2011 definitely had its fair share of ups and downs, but i wouldn’t trade any of it for the lessons i learned and the strength that i gained.

that said, this year i want to…

  • travel more, whether it’s exploring nearby cities or going abroad
  • be less judgmental/negative
  • be more open and patient
  • put family first
  • be better with my finances
  • be more organized
  • put my health first
  • keep moving forward (in ALL aspects of life)

it may sound pretty vague and maybe even a little generic, but i believe these basic things can make a huge difference.

in addition to the list above, this poem always comes to mind when a new year rolls around:

Promise Yourself
by Christian D. Larson

Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best and expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large to worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

So, here’s to 2012 and all the progress and prosperity it has to offer!