Organized Chaos
Big Apples & Beautiful Plants
The big apple and beautiful plant on my desk!
These past couple of weeks I have been in a bit of a funk…. Some little unexpected things happened that I let pile up and bother me. Instead of letting these incidents roll off of me and turning my focus towards the many blessings in my life I let these little disappointments and inconveniences capitalize too much of my energy.
All I have to do is look around me to how truly see blessed I am and yet at times I struggle with being content. My negative attitude is not benefiting myself nor those who are in close proximity of me (family, friends, co-workers). In reality it is probably pretty toxic to myself and those who have to be in my presence. While my life is not even close to being “perfect” mostly because I manage to mess it up more than I care to admit, it really isn’t bad by any means either. There are a lot of people that are going through far more challenging situations.
As I was thinking about some of these recent events, situations and incidents that got me into this little funk I was reminded of big apples and beautiful plants. I know it sounds random, but sometimes it’s silly little objects that help bring clarity and focus to my messes of life. Often times these objects remind me of the person who thoughtfully and gave or made them for me which in return makes me smile.
My husband will randomly get me something that he knows I will enjoy. An apple is a common fruit found in my work lunch, one day he surprised me with a very large apple as my work snack. It made me laugh because the apple was so big it barely fit in my lunch bag and ended up being part of my snack and lunch. I love all kinds of plants and flowers, however, I have a black thumb which means it is a miracle if I keep a plant alive for a year or more (yes, I have managed to even kill a cactus….). One day he brought home an adorable potted plant for me. I took it to work and had so many files on my desk that day that it ended up finding a home next to my monitor and in front of my main work space. He is thoughtful and knows how to make me smile. The photo above is the day I had the big apple next to my beautiful plant. While these are just two visual examples of ways I am reminded of him and the many blessings in my life there are many more if I take a moment to look around me.
Unfortunately, there are many days when I am busy with tasks that I overlook the big apples, beautiful plants, and the many other little reminders of the multitude of blessings in my life. Some days I get sucked into tackling a variety of “to do” items or choose to focus on disappointments which tend to weigh on me instead of working hard while appreciating the positive blessings all around me. It’s time to break out of this funk and remember who really is in control of my life. When left up to myself I get off track, my focus is not on what truly matters in life, and I am not the easiest person to hang around. I am ready to get back on track, anybody else ready?
A few ways to encourage us to turn our focus towards positive blessings:
- Look – What do you see around you that makes you smile or brings are certain special person to mind? You probably have more blessings than realize you once you take a few minutes to look around and think about it.
- Relax – The to do list is always growing, don’t set unrealistic expectations for yourself. You can relax every once in awhile without being considered lazy, it’s actually healthy for us.
- Breathe – Take a few deep breaths, it helps clear your minds and relaxes your body
- Focus – Choose to focus on the good parts of your life. The hard times and inconveniences will come, but they do not have to monopolize all your time and energy.
- Time – Spend quality time with family, friends, and people you love. Life really is short, make a point to invest time in people.
Here’s to a life full of many blessings! May we always remember what’s truly important and if we forget hopefully we’ll get back on track quickly.
Hershey Story Museum (Hershey, PA)
Learning about the Hershey Chocolate Company
Our family recently visited Hershey, PA. It was a short visit, but we had a lot of fun. The Hershey Story Museum was very interesting. It was neat learning about Milton Hershey and the history of the Hershey company. We made delicious treats in the Chocolate Lab, took a stroll downtown ,and went in a few small shops. Thankful for the an opportunity to visit this beautiful area. Maybe next time we go through town we can check out more fun family activities.
Mr. Hershey’s deposit on his Titanic ticket, he ended up not going because a business matter came up.
Inside the Hershey Museum is beautiful especially around the Holidays!
Hershey’s Cut Glass Torchere
Hershey’s for Health anyone!?
You can get tickets for the Chocolate Lab and make delicious chocolate treats!
Pick up a tasty treat at the Santry Cafe at The Hershey Story Museum!
It was cool clear day so we took a stroll in downtown Hershey.
You can see the Hershey Amusement in the background behind Chocolate Avenue!
The street lights are giant Hershey kisses!
Hershey grounds complete with bushes!
Three Ways Your Family can Welcome in a New Year!
With a new year comes a lot of excitement! The feeling of a fresh start in many areas of our lives, planning for future events and adventures, new goals, and more! Everyday is a blessing! While we welcome in the New Year don’t forget to reflect on the many blessings that you have enjoyed over the past year(s). I encourage you to initiate a conversation with your family (it can be during a family dinner, game night, or any good time when everyone is present). During this family time focus on these three things as a family to start off your New Year right. This time together will make a positive impact on the hearts and lives of each individual family member and is worth it:
- Reflect back the fun memories and blessings of 2016! Often the hardest part with this stage is getting the ball rolling. Before the family time create a list of several good family memories to get it started. Mention one and let others input their memories tied into that event as well as start adding their own memories. Give everyone a chance who wants to talk the opportunity. If there is a pause bring up a different memory to keep them going. Before long you’ll be laughing and the kids will be bringing up memories connected to the event or new ones that you forgot about. This is a wonderful way to end a year and begin a new one.
- Take a moment to think about the tough times over the past year! While the harder times are not easy to deal with or will bring back sadness or emotions they still have an impact on our lives. Sometimes during these times of discussion you realize that a family member is still struggling with something. Whether it is grief over a lost pet or loved one, anger, frustration, or something else. This is a good time to gauge how everyone is doing and give you an opportunity to encourage each other or help those family members heal. The love and support you receive from those around you can make an incredible impact on your life as you continue to move forward. Knowing you are not alone, you are loved, and you have a team of people who want to help you can help the family member heal more quickly. (Do not use this time to point out problems with each other, but to talk about harder times and to encourage. Some topics made need to be tabled for a later and more lengthy conversation) It will give you a good insight into your children and some ideas of what to help encourage them with over the next few weeks as they continue to grow and heal.
- Look ahead! As one year wraps up and a new one begins it is a great time to set some goals both personally and as a family. Use this time to set family goals together. There may be some activities that the kids have been wanting to do, but you have been letting it slip not even realizing that it was very important to them. The goals discussed during this family time should be family related, although they most definitely have a personal impact on each family member. Write these goals down and review them weekly or monthly or regularly throughout the year to remind the family members of what is important to the family as a whole. This also provides a lead in for each of the members to think about their personal goals. It allows a great opportunity to have a group of people focused on similar goals and encouraging each other along the way. Some family goal ideas (eat healthier, regular family game night, monthly date night with spouse and each child, daily family devotions, learn a new skill together, plan a family vacation, weekly family night, quarterly family service project, etc…). Make a point to write the ideas down and either make a decision that day or within a few days on the family goals. Type up a list, print it or email it to each family member so that they can be reminded of the ways your family is working together to create stronger bonds, happy memories, and improving lives.
Setting aside a time when everyone is together can be difficult, however it is important. It can be during a family dinner, game night, or another time when the family is together. Make sure it is a convenient time with as little distractions as possible. A time when everyone is more relaxed (not hungry, ready for bed, or trying to multi-task while having this conversation). The reflecting on memories helps create a happy bond, the tough times allow family members to see that they are not alone and have the support of people who love them, and looking ahead gives you the opportunity to improve and grow into a better individuals and family unit. If you do write down the family goals please do your best to follow through as much as possible because these goals are important to the members.
Life has a way of staying busy. Taking the time to spending reflecting on good memories as a way has a way of bringing everyone together. It may cause some laughter, tears, and healing. It is good to be reminded of the many blessings in our life and to realize that we are journeying through this life together. Yes, we make mistakes along the way, but we can can make the best of it and have a lot of fun too. Many blessings to you and your family this 2017 New Year!!!
What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan
We have a full schedule this week, but no traveling as far as work so everyone will be together for the evening meals. Trying to make the menu simple and easy as our evenings together are more limited after work, school, activities and other scheduled events. Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:
Our Weekly Menu Plan
- Monday (Beef or Pasta Entree): Beef Shepherd’s Pie Casserole, Mash Potatoes
- Tuesday (Seafood, Soup, Salad, or Sandwich Entree): Shrimp & Stuffed Talapia, Tagliatelle & Mushroom Pasta
- Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Sweet & Sour Chicken, Udon Noodles
- Thursday (Pork Entree or Kid‘s Night to Cook): Apple Bourbon Pork Chops, Mult-Grain Bread
- Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting
I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or pasta entree and so forth). It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned. I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.
Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family. On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home. As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes. If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).
As a family of four our life can get busy. What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget. Our family typically eats 6 to 7 dinner meals at home a week. We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat. Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family. Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day. Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends. The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety. We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.
Photo by Liz
What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan
Last week went by quickly and as we approach a new week it is another full schedule. Thankful for a family who works and plays together. We had a great weekend, but are preparing for another crazy week of school and work ahead. The menu will be slightly different this week with everything going on, but I will try to stay on track as much as possible.
It will be another busy week, but glad that the family is working together to get everything done. This week I have some special events going on and I need to utilize the items in my pantry. Trying to keep it healthy, yet simple since several nights we are tighter on time. Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:
Our Weekly Menu Plan
- Monday (Beef or Pasta Entree): Sloppy Joe’s, Fresh Salad
- Tuesday (Seafood, Soup, Salad, or Sandwich Entree): Sandwiches, Salads, Fresh Veggies
- Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Hotdogs, Baked Beans
- Thursday (Pork Entree or Kid‘s Night to Cook): Crockpot Pork Roast, Mash Potatoes (we switched this night around last week so it’s back on the menu)
- Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting
I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or pasta entree and so forth). It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned. I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.
Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family. On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home. As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes. If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).
As a family of four our life can get busy. What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget. Our family typically eats 6 to 7 dinner meals at home a week. We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat. Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family. Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day. Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends. The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety. We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.
Photo by Liz
What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan
This week we are back to our “new normal” schedule. Last week was a little different since the girls were out of school Monday for Labor Day and Tuesday and Wednesday for Teachers Professional Learning Days. LOVED having extra time with my sweet girls and Jake over the Labor Day weekend!!!
We are gearing up for another full week of school, work and extra activities. The girls are starting to have more club and after school activities starting this week too. Along with a handful of appointments and other fun activities so it will be a busy week for the whole crew, but looking forward to hitting a rhythm.
It will be another busy week, but glad that the family is working together to get everything done. This week I have some special events going on and I need to utilize the items in my pantry. Trying to keep it healthy, yet simple since several nights we are tighter on time. Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:
Our Weekly Menu Plan
- Monday (Beef or Pasta Entree): Chili, Corn Bread
- Tuesday (Seafood, Soup, Salad, or Sandwich Entree): Tagliatelle & Garlic Pasta, Asparagus, Stone Ground Wheat Bread
- Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Sweet & Sour Chicken, Steamed Rice
- Thursday (Pork Entree or Kid‘s Night to Cook): Crockpot Pork Roast, Mash Potatoes
- Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting
I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or pasta entree and so forth). It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned. I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.
Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family. On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home. As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes. If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).
As a family of four our life can get busy. What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget. Our family typically eats 6 to 7 dinner meals at home a week. We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat. Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family. Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day. Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends. The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety. We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.
Photo by Liz
Intentional Living: Weekly Goals
Last week was a busy week with a lot of activities going on. Jake was traveling for part of the week with work, the girls were busy at school, and I was busy at home as well as work. Grateful for a great family at home and a good team at work, while it makes for a busy week balancing everything every day I am reminded of how many blessings are in my life. I am far from perfect, but glad for the opportunities to continuing learning and growing!
Thankful for the Labor Day weekend and extra time together with my family. We did some fun activities and also squeezed in some time to work on some projects at home too. As I gear up for another busy week I am trying to not over committed myself, but want to stay on track. Here are my goals for this week:
Last week’s goals
Family Goals
Read the book Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry (I had this book, an 1954 version, when I was in 6th grade and it takes place near White River Junction, Vermont near where Jake’s grandparents and Mom live so the girls know the area fairly well)Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids.Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids.Reflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night.Plan one special activity with the familyPlay a Game with the KidsCreate Memories with the FamilySpend Quality time with each family memberDo a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week
Kid Goals
Do Homework Monday – FridayPack Lunches and Prep for the next daySpend one-on-one time with kids each day
Personal Goals
Drink 8 glasses of water- Wear FitBit (at least 10,000 steps and 10 sets of stairs every day) – didn’t make it to 10,000 steps everyday before crashing
- Do Yoga at least 5 times this week – the TV didn’t like working for me while Jake was traveling for work….need to get back in my routine again
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
Household Cleaning / Organization – Pantry de-cluttered and organizedPlan out the Menu for the WeekGive Skipper a bath this weekSpeed clean & pick up the house 15 minutes a night
Business Goals
Update Work Notes- Get caught up on blog posts – working on it
Work on a few special projects- Update my LinkedIn Profile – started on it
- Research a couple of items in regards to the blog – figuring it out
- Confirm the tasks my plate as I transition to a new team – getting into more of a rhythm still have some details I am working out
Ministry Goals
Go to breakfast or lunch with a family member or friendCounting my blessings journal
Financial Goals
- Schedule a meeting with the financial advisor – my schedule was a little different this week so didn’t get it done
- Get our finances and budget back on track – doing better
- Pay down debt we owe – made extra payment
Limit amount spent on Groceries, Household, and Other Items (use what we already have at home)
My goals for the upcoming week
Family Goals
- Read the book The Land of Stories – The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer to the kids
- Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids.
- Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids.
- Reflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night.
- Plan one special activity with the family
- Play a Game with the Kids
- Create Memories with the Family
- Spend Quality time with each family member
- Do a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week
- Spend extra time with the family over the Holiday Weekend
Kid Goals
- Do Homework Monday – Friday
- Pack Lunches and Prep for the next day
- Spend one-on-one time with kids each day
Personal Goals
- Drink 8 glasses of water
- Wear FitBit (at least 10,000 steps and 10 sets of stairs every day)
- Do Yoga at least 5 times this week
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
- Household Cleaning / Organization – Hang Up Girls Souvenir Necklaces
- Plan out the Menu for the Week
- Work on yard projects
- Speed clean & pick up the house 15 minutes a night
Business Goals
- Update Work Notes
- Get caught up on blog posts
- Work on a few special projects
- Update my LinkedIn Profile
- Research a couple of items in regards to the blog
- Confirm the tasks my plate as I transition to a new team
- Pick from a couple of the “extra” activity and/or product options
Ministry Goals
- Go to breakfast or lunch with a family member or friend
- Counting my blessings journal
Financial Goals
- Schedule a meeting with the financial advisor
- Get our finances and budget back on track
- Pay down debt we owe
- Limit amount spent on Groceries, Household, and Other Items (use what we already have at home)
I think it is important to share and encourage each other as we seek to improve our lives and the lives of those around us. I want to live intentionally not just hope all my dreams and goals come true. When I focus on small steps of improvement I am able to see results as I get closer to my goals. Some weeks I get closer to the goals I have in my life and other weeks a take a few steps back (life happens, emergencies occur, people get sick). Once the goals are written down and shared it provides a guideline for what I aim to accomplish this week.
Why Share My Goals?
- To keep me accountable
- To share a piece of my life with you as I strive to be a better Child of God, Wife, Mom, Friend, Homemaker, Entrepreneur and the many other roles I have each week
- To have my goals consistently written down so I can gauge progress more accurately
- Create healthy habits in my life
- To encourage you to share your goals with me as you continue to grown and learn
How did you do this week on your goals? Feel free to share or link to your list of weekly goals.
The picture above is one that I created for my own purposes, however, The “SMART” acronym was originally coined 30 years ago by Peter Drucker in his classic work, Management by Results
What’s for Dinner: Our Weekly Menu Plan
We are starting to establish more of a school and work routine. I would be lying if I said everything has gone completely smoothly, ha! A couple of nights this past week after a full day at work, picking up the kids so we can do homework, dinner, get everyone settled into bed, I was exhausted and ready to go to bed as well. Typically, I am good staying up late and love getting up early, but with the transition I have had to go to bed around 9 or 10 at night (for those who know me that is early)!
Thankfully we are getting settled into the routine. I think this week will be easier now. This week I have some special events going on and I need to utilize the items in my pantry. Trying to keep it healthy, yet simple since several nights we are tighter on time. Here is our menu plan for the upcoming week:
Our Weekly Menu Plan
- Monday (Beef or Pasta Entree): Beef, Tomato and Noodle Soup, French Bread
- Tuesday (Seafood, Soup, Salad, or Sandwich Entree): Baja Fish Tacos, Salad
- Wednesday (Chicken or Vegetarian Entree): Sweet & Spicy Teriyaki Chicken, Steamed Rice
- Thursday (Pork Entree or Kid‘s Night to Cook): BLT Sandwiches, Pasta Salad
- Friday, Saturday, & Sunday: Leftovers, Family Preference, and Hosting
I have a general pattern I try to follow for my weekly Menu Plan (for example Monday we have a beef or pasta entree and so forth). It is my goal, at least in the beginning, to have at least the main dish and one side planned. I will put together the remaining side dishes (veggies / fruits) based on the food items that need to be used up first and compliment the main entree.
Setting a weekly menu plan helps me utilize my time better, thus freeing up extra time to spend with my family. On the days that I am working longer hours I can prep the meal in advance so it will be easier to pull together once I am home. As I go through the menu planning process I will try to share some of our favorite family recipes. If there is a specific recipe you would like please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate (some recipes are a toss together meal and I do not use any set measurements).
As a family of four our life can get busy. What’s for Dinner is our weekly menu planning series and one of the ways to help keep us organized, on schedule, and within budget. Our family typically eats 6 to 7 dinner meals at home a week. We do try to go out to eat at least once a month as a special treat. Breakfasts are eaten at home before work and school, lunches are eaten at work, school, or home, so dinner is our main meal together as a family. Dinner is our time to reconnect, share, and enjoy being together after a busy day. Our weekly menu plan covers Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday only because the weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) is our time to spend with family and friends. The weekends tend to be more spontaneous and my husband (who is the better cook) likes pitching in therefore we keep the menu open for variety. We use up the leftovers throughout the week for our lunches and on the nights that we are busy or can’t cook.
Photo by Liz
Intentional Living: Weekly Goals
We are off to a great start of the school year! Now if only I can get fully caught up on all the fun projects I have going on at home. Thankful for an opportunity to work, but always enjoy some time to refocus, spend time with family & friends, run errands, and tackle projects around the house. There is always more to do then time allows, but I am super excited about some of the fun stuff in store the remainder of the 2016 year!!!
In case you haven’t already noticed I am a goal oriented, list driven, and more of a type A personality. I LOVE learning new things, but also enjoy the comfort of the normal everyday treasures in each day as well. When I take a moment to soak in what is around me I remember that I take too much for granted and that I am blessed beyond measure (which I don’t deserve).
The time I have with my family is a priority to me. I absolutely LOVE hanging out with my husband, the girls are growing up way too fast and it is always a joy sharing a special moment with them, it is refreshing to catch up with a dear friend, and mentally stimulating to balance a work, school, family, life, and everything else schedule….. I get more wrong then I get right, but thankfully I have a forgiving and gracious Heavenly Father and people who are not afraid to speak truth into my life.
One of my big goals this week is to start sharing with you a “taste” of the adventures our family enjoyed over the summer break. We were able to catch up with people we love and experience some amazing memories together. As I gear up for another busy week I am trying to not over committed myself, but want to stay on track. Here are my goals for this week:
Last week’s goals
Family Goals
Pick out a new Chapter book to read to the girls and start reading it– It is one I got as a girl when I was in 6th grade and read many times (the girls think it is awesome that I am reading a book to them that I received when I was their age). They love their reading time and I hope to more time reading with them this week!
Read 7 more Stories from the Bad Pets on the Loose by Alan Zullo book to the kids.All of Alan Zull’s “Bad Pets” short stories books have been a big hit with our kids!- Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids. – working through them
- Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids. – continuing to learn along with the girls on this one too!
Reflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night. – love this one-on-one quiet time with each girl…the only problem this week I was so relaxed talking with that a couple of times I fell asleep at the foot of their beds as I was chatting and either they or Jake had to wake me up, ha! Obviously, I was relaxing a little too much!Plan one special activity with the family– we have planned some super fun day or weekend activities this fall (I can’t share yet….they sometimes read my blog…..shhh…..)Play a Game with the KidsCreate Memories with the FamilySpend Quality time with each family memberDo a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week
Kid Goals
Do Homework Monday – FridayPack Lunches and Prep for the next daySpend one-on-one time with kids each day
Personal Goals
Drink 8 glasses of water- Wear FitBit (at least 10,000 steps and 10 sets of stairs every day) – wasn’t the best week I have had….
Do Yoga at least 5 times this week
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
- Give Skipper a bath this week – will need to do it next week, other outside items took priority
Speed clean & pick up the house 15 minutes a night
Business Goals
Update Work Notes- Get caught up on blog posts – hoping to gain more momentum this week!!!
- Work on a few special projects – got a couple gearing up….
Ministry Goals
Go to breakfast or lunch with a family member or friendCounting my blessings journal
Financial Goals
- Schedule a meeting with the financial advisor – really need to buckle down and get this on our schedule soon
- Get our finances and budget back on track – doing better now that we are in a more set routine
- Pay down debt we owe – made extra payments again this week
- Limit amount spent on Groceries, Household, and Other Items (use what we already have at home) – better, but not within our target range
My goals for the upcoming week
Family Goals
- Read the book Justin Morgan Had a Horse by Marguerite Henry (I had this book, an 1954 version, when I was in 6th grade and it takes place near White River Junction, Vermont near where Jake’s grandparents and Mom live so the girls know the area fairly well)
- Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids.
- Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids.
- Reflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night.
- Plan one special activity with the family
- Play a Game with the Kids
- Create Memories with the Family
- Spend Quality time with each family member
- Do a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week
Kid Goals
- Do Homework Monday – Friday
- Pack Lunches and Prep for the next day
- Spend one-on-one time with kids each day
Personal Goals
- Drink 8 glasses of water
- Wear FitBit (at least 10,000 steps and 10 sets of stairs every day)
- Do Yoga at least 5 times this week
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
- Household Cleaning / Organization – Pantry de-cluttered and organized
- Plan out the Menu for the Week
- Give Skipper a bath this week
- Speed clean & pick up the house 15 minutes a night
Business Goals
- Update Work Notes
- Get caught up on blog posts
- Work on a few special projects
- Update my LinkedIn Profile
- Research a couple of items in regards to the blog
- Confirm the tasks my plate as I transition to a new team
Ministry Goals
- Go to breakfast or lunch with a family member or friend
- Counting my blessings journal
Financial Goals
- Schedule a meeting with the financial advisor
- Get our finances and budget back on track
- Pay down debt we owe
- Limit amount spent on Groceries, Household, and Other Items (use what we already have at home)
I think it is important to share and encourage each other as we seek to improve our lives and the lives of those around us. I want to live intentionally not just hope all my dreams and goals come true. When I focus on small steps of improvement I am able to see results as I get closer to my goals. Some weeks I get closer to the goals I have in my life and other weeks a take a few steps back (life happens, emergencies occur, people get sick). Once the goals are written down and shared it provides a guideline for what I aim to accomplish this week.
Why Share My Goals?
- To keep me accountable
- To share a piece of my life with you as I strive to be a better Child of God, Wife, Mom, Friend, Homemaker, Entrepreneur and the many other roles I have each week
- To have my goals consistently written down so I can gauge progress more accurately
- Create healthy habits in my life
- To encourage you to share your goals with me as you continue to grown and learn
How did you do this week on your goals? Feel free to share or link to your list of weekly goals.
The picture above is one that I created for my own purposes, however, The “SMART” acronym was originally coined 30 years ago by Peter Drucker in his classic work, Management by Results
Intentional Living: Weekly Goals
We are officially on the new school and work schedule starting this week. The girls are now in middle school. It has been a little bit more of an adjustment, but they (and their parents) are doing well. Looking forward to seeing the schedule get into the new normal rhythm. I a positive there will be a lot of fun and exciting events as we fly through these next few weeks.
Thankful for a great summer. We had a lot of great opportunities to catch up with family and friends across the county. We were able to cover a lot of territory over the past couple of months. Last week we had close friends staying with us for a few days which was awesome. Grateful for friends who check in on our house and pets while we were traveling and that work was flexible with the slightly insane schedule.
I am hoping to get back up, running, and staying on top of things more regularly with the house, blog, and personal goals. You should be seeing some of our fun adventures over the summer break. Hoping to ease back into some of these items so I am not over committed as I gear up for a busy week. Here are my goals for this week:
Last week’s goals
Family Goals
Finish reading The Forgotten Filly by Karle Dickerson to the kids- Read 7 more Stories from the Bad Pets on the Loose by Alan Zullo book to the kids – these are fun, short stories that make the kids giggle. We actually saw one of the locations where one of the stories took place when we were traveling through Alaska! Very exciting!!!
- Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids. – somehow this set got placed in a random spot and didn’t go through it until later in the week
Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids– these have been a fun learning tool for me tooReflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night– always love hearing the neat things they are thankful for in their daysPlan one special activity with the family– spent time with our friends that were visiting from MainePlay a Game with the Kids– we did a Nerf war with friends while they are visiting all adults and most of the kids participated (Savannah slept through the whole Nerf game)Create Memories with the Family– thankful for great memories and special times together – I took off the girls last day of summer to hang out with them and our friends from Maine- Spend Quality time with each family member – the girls did a slumber party with Bradley this week so we did not do one-on-one time with everyone this week
Do a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week– craft time and science experiment fun over the weekend
Kid Goals
Spend time Monday –Friday encouraging the kids to find creative ways to learn and grow their skills– lots of fun learning and being creative as well as attending the first few days of school- At least 30 minutes of outside play, fresh air, or activity time a day – didn’t get this on a couple of the school nights
Personal Goals
- Drink 8 glasses of water, wear FitBit, and do yoga (or at least stretch out) each day – I didn’t get all these goals accomplished this week. Had some technical issues with the TV for yoga while Jake was out of town with work. Did well on the water and decent on the FitBit though.
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
- Focusing on my Family not the “to do” list
Business Goals
- Focusing on my Family not the “to do” list
Ministry Goals
- Quality time with my family
Financial Goals
- Focusing on my Family not the “to do” list
My goals for the upcoming week
Family Goals
- Pick out a new Chapter book to read to the girls and start reading it
- Read 7 more Stories from the Bad Pets on the Loose by Alan Zullo book to the kids.
- Go through 7 more Brain Quest Flash Cards with the kids.
- Read through 7 more pages of History Trivia with the kids.
- Reflect on our blessings and prayer time with kids every night.
- Plan one special activity with the family
- Play a Game with the Kids
- Create Memories with the Family
- Spend Quality time with each family member
- Do a new, unique, or different activity with the family this week
Kid Goals
- Do Homework Monday – Friday
- Pack Lunches and Prep for the next day
- Spend one-on-one time with kids each day
Personal Goals
- Drink 8 glasses of water
- Wear FitBit (at least 10,000 steps and 10 sets of stairs every day)
- Do Yoga at least 5 times this week
Home (Yard & Pets) Management Goals
- Give Skipper a bath this week
- Speed clean & pick up the house 15 minutes a night
Business Goals
- Update Work Notes
- Get caught up on blog posts
- Work on a few special projects
Ministry Goals
- Go to breakfast or lunch with a family member or friend
- Counting my blessings journal
Financial Goals
- Schedule a meeting with the financial advisor
- Get our finances and budget back on track
- Pay down debt we owe
- Limit amount spent on Groceries, Household, and Other Items (use what we already have at home)
I think it is important to share and encourage each other as we seek to improve our lives and the lives of those around us. I want to live intentionally not just hope all my dreams and goals come true. When I focus on small steps of improvement I am able to see results as I get closer to my goals. Some weeks I get closer to the goals I have in my life and other weeks a take a few steps back (life happens, emergencies occur, people get sick). Once the goals are written down and shared it provides a guideline for what I aim to accomplish this week.
Why Share My Goals?
- To keep me accountable
- To share a piece of my life with you as I strive to be a better Child of God, Wife, Mom, Friend, Homemaker, Entrepreneur and the many other roles I have each week
- To have my goals consistently written down so I can gauge progress more accurately
- Create healthy habits in my life
- To encourage you to share your goals with me as you continue to grown and learn
How did you do this week on your goals? Feel free to share or link to your list of weekly goals.
The picture above is one that I created for my own purposes, however, The “SMART” acronym was originally coined 30 years ago by Peter Drucker in his classic work, Management by Results
