14 for 2014

It's a new year!  Here are 14 things I have to say as the Cullens Crew embarks upon it.

1. I am not as young as I once was.  I fell asleep before the ball dropped, probably around 11:30.  I woke up around 12:15 to tell the kids to go to bed.  

2.  I don't like to make resolutions.  I usually fail.  With that being said....

I do reflect upon changes that should be made.  I have acted upon some of the things I need to change.  I am attempting to work out regularly again.  I have not done so since about 5 years ago when I started substituting.  I would work out now and then at first and very seldom did in 2013. I am meeting some friends a couple of days a week at the Y at 5:30 am. JJ works out with their husbands the other weekday mornings at 5:00 am.  (The girls need more beauty sleep)

3.  I need to stop making excuses! My excuse for not working out was that I could not find the time. The early mornings would not work for me if I had to work.  JJ reminded me that I needed accountability and said I would just have to shower and get ready for work at the Y like lots of other people do. So I will take my stuff and pack my lunch even if I am not yet scheduled to work. Here's my new bag and matching water bottle:

My further excuse was that I usually get sub calls or texts between 5:30 and 6:00.  Guess I will just have to keep my phone nearby. 

4. I am grateful to be able to work as a substitute teacher. God has made it clear that full-time teaching would not be His best for our family.  At least not yet.  I had several opportunities for long-term sub work in 2013.  I plan to continue to seek the Lord and be discerning as a couple of my long-term assignments we stressful and challenging.  Some of my other assignments were more enjoyable. I look forward to seeing what possibilities lie ahead in 2014.  I have been glad to be home since school resumed last week, yet I do hope to return to classrooms relatively soon. 

5.   I joined Weight Watchers.  Another reality of not working out much in 5 years is the added weight.  It accumulates slowly but surely, about 15-20 pounds for me.  My first goal is to return to where I was 5 years ago, and that isn't even pre-pregnancy weight.  Baby Steps!

6.  Since I joined WW (online, don't have time for a weekly meeting), I have become a tracker.  I must track my points for the day, exercise, etc. This is tedious but necessary.  I must say that the Weight Watchers mobile app makes it easier than ever.

 I have only been tracking a few days but it is eye-opening and helps me to discern whether I want to eat a particular thing or if I should make a healthier choice.

7.  Back to the excuses thing.... I have not been for a physical in over 5 years.  I hate the scales.  They make me get on the scales and THEN take my blood pressure.  No wonder it is high.  I am happy to report that I did schedule an appointment for next month. (I hope my exercise and WW changes remove some of my scaleophobia.) 

8.  It's mammogram time! Is that TMI?Yes, I know I am 41 and should have had one last year.  Back to my excuses issue.  I have an appointment for later this month. 

9. It's been cold around here.  The past 2 school days have been delayed 2 hours because of the record low temps. It was 10 degrees yesterday when I went to the Y and up to about 14 this morning.

 I even cut my hand on a piece of ice from our freezer yesterday, seriously.

10.  It's indoor soccer season.....

to be followed by the spring season that actually starts in February. To be followed by trying out for next year's teams (we'll see what happens there), to be followed by summer tournaments, fall season,etc.  

11.  Hayden will be entering high school in 2014. Say what???? It is time to investigate schooling options.  There are some other alternatives to public education in our county besides the traditional high school setting. They are Davidson County Early College and Yadkin Valley Career Academy.  

He is going to be in a play with his school drama club in April.  Therefore, he does not think he will audition for Lexington Youth Theatre's March production of "Peter Pan." I have still failed to blog about the November play, "Shrek." Hope that will come soon.

12. Drake is still liking soccer.  Some of his teammates are considering switching over to football so we will see if he sticks with soccer. He is good at it. 

13.Corinna will likely keep playing soccer.  She is in to fashion and learning new hairstyles.  She is in a school musical coming in February.

14. I am at 14 already.  This last one will just have to be ...God is sovereign and in control. We will seek and submit to his will in 2014. He will direct all of our paths. We desire paths of righteousness.  We will choose to trust Him in 2014.

Happy New Year!