Putting on the Brakes

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I've had such a wonderful week so far and I've really tried to put the brakes on my hectic life.  I have such a difficult time slowing down and enjoying the moment.  As soon as one thing is over, I'm on to planning the next.  I caught myself doing that on Tuesday, the day after our party which left me really tired.  I told Dan that it's so hard to not constantly be planning ahead.

Two things that I want to focus on in 2013 are getting myself in shape physically, as well as just slowing down and hearing from God.  I'm asking myself questions such as...

 ► What does He want me to do?

 ► How can I help others use their gifts more (instead of doing it all myself)? 

► What are my motives in doing an activity?  Am I honoring God and pointing people to Him or am I the center of focus?

 ► Is the activity beneficial? Necessary?  

 I've been able to focus on my house and my family this week.  They seem to always take a back seat and I want to make sure that I'm not so busy being all to everyone and neglecting them.

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 Since Tuesday, here are some things I've been able to accomplish that are keeping with this idea of slowing down and refocusing:

♥ Christmas decorations are down and put away.

♥ Had two full, busy days of school with Emily. We are refocusing and buckling down after the holidays.

♥ Went with Dan to the gym the past two days.  I love it and it's an activity that we are enjoying doing together.

♥ Spent some quality time reading and praying.

♥ Did some bird watching.  I have been putting sunflower seeds outside my living room window and get great shots that way!

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 ♥ Closed down my Etsy shop.  I had few sales and actually lost money.  I would love to just get back to making things for gifts and because I love to be creative.

There are a few other things that I need to cut back on or cut out altogether.  I'm looking forward to hearing from the Lord in the new year!

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