Checking in ...

I've been thinking a lot lately. Every year, I make resolutions that I truly want to keep. A week goes by and I'm following them and then a month and soon enough I've even forgotten what my resolutions were. So, in order to hold myself accountable, at the beginning of each month I'm going to check in to see how I'm coming along.

1) To live simply -- Hmm, this is still hard for me. BUT I did manage to spend 60% less than what I spent in January 2009. Hopefully, this will continue to improve. I admit, I bought clothes. Some of it I needed, most I probably could have gone without. I am getting good at online window shopping. I'll fill my cart and then close the browser. It takes a lot of will power.

2) To be happy -- This one involves spending more time with friends both old and new. I'm slowly getting better at this. I did make it down to see my friend, Cupcake, this past weekend even though I didn't know anyone else at her get together. And this Friday, the SW Interns are getting together, and, on Sunday, I'm heading down to a Superbowl party where I won't know a lot of the people. It's scary for me to go places with strangers but I end up enjoying myself. I need to work on calling my friends more. I did call one of my friends who is in a different time zone one night. It was good to catch up after I explained there wasn't an emergency and I really was awake at 1:30 in the morning :-)

3) To love freely -- This could be another post in itself. I will admit that I through myself willingly into the relationship with I. But I have also decided that I am a great person and if someone wants to be with me then they'll do whatever it takes including phone calls, dates, and all that romantic mushy stuff. I'm not quite ready to give up on I but, at the same time, I'm not holding my breath.

4) To take care of myself body and soul -- Ah, finally a resolution that I feel like I'm making progress on! It's amazing the difference a diet free of fast food and junk food makes. I feel better, and I think I look better. I've been snacking a lot on fruits and veggies too. I have been practicing a lot of self care as well. I wind down in the evenings and have done a good job of leaving work at work. I would still like to start working out but it needs to stop snowing first!

5) To be more positive -- If I were being graded, I'd get an F. Enough said. I really need to stop gossiping. Although I think there's a fine line between gossiping and venting. I need to find a healthier and more positive outlet.

6) To live a greener life -- I've been using my reusable lunch bag and water bottle. I also went to the store and bought two mugs so that I don't use the styrofoam ones at work. I don't make meaningless trips out so I conserve gas and reduce pollution. I think I'm doing okay with this one. I should probably start recycling more at work.


Ok, I think I'm doing okay. Obviously, I still have room for some growth. We'll see how this month goes.