New Year's Resolutions

If there's one thing I love about the new year is the thought that one can "start over and try again". It's a chance to learn from one's mistakes, a chance to improve upon the previous year, a chance to look at last year and thank God for the many blessings in my life and the chance to look forward to what God is going to do. And that's what I'm doing!
I obviously have much to improve upon---- one of those being my weight. This is something I've struggled with since having babies and it doesn't seem to get better with age (like a fine wine or even cheese!). So, this year I have a goal to lose significant weight, but to also be healthy about it- which includes exercise.
As I look back on last year, I'm not sure that the choices I made were necessarily "mistakes," only life lessons. As many of you know I've been praying for boldness over the last few years as well as the Prayer of Jabez (1 Chronicles 4:10). In that prayer I have asked God to "enlarge my territory" (and, no, that's not a sales position-HA!). Well, God has certainly done that. He grew me in ways I can honestly say I probably wasn't prepared for--- but when are we ever fully prepared when God is working! This process has required me to reflect upon where I'm spending my time and examine my relationships. So, this year I have made it a goal to try and surround myself with people that will encourage me and help me grow spiritually-- as well as I do the same for them. I hope that doesn't' sound conceited in any way--- I don't mean for it to--- I only mean that our time is valuable and limited here on this earth. I want to be intentional for every minute that I spend on it.
I also have to reflect on last year and thank God and give Him all praise and glory. I believe in a God that is a God of healing and restoration, a God of hope. And although, this arthritis still seems to be "hanging out" with me, I believe with all my heart that God's healing hands are wrapping themselves around me at this very time. I am anticipating His healing power and being a testimony for God's love for all of us.
So, this is just a post to say what I'm anticipating in 2009. Our nation is going through a lot of changes (most of them not good) and I can't help but believe that our time on this earth is limited--- I want to make the most of it!!