My 12 in 2012

As I inch closer to the big 3-0, I've been slowly crossing off items on my 30 before 30 list. I recently realized in my quest to simplifying daily life it might be beneficial to break down my 30 into a manageable list of 12 tasks to complete by the end of this year.

Here it goes...

1. Explore my cooking creativity and post about 10 recipes on my blog this year

2. Run, hike, bike, or hit the gym four days a week

3. Sew an article of clothing that I or someone else will actually wear

4. Make homemade bread at least once per month

5. Paint and decorate our bedroom

6. Register and run a 5K

7. Go on a brew-cation

8. Start and care for a container garden (hopefully not known as a "contained deer buffet")

9. Read and finish one book each month (is it bad that I'm in the middle of 5 books right now? I'm having trouble with reading one at a time)

10. Organize my box madness (this might be my husband's favorite as we have sacrificed a clean "music room" until my boxes are sorted)

11. Draft plans and a working schedule for our "backyard heaven"

12. Host a party at our home

Why "slow, simple, self"...

What is in a name? Well, a lot. Choosing a name for this blog was a difficult task for yours truly. I was inspired to choose "slow, simple, self" due to my wish to create and enjoy a purposeful way of life.

With that stated, please know this - I love what I call my "job" and I am so lucky to have a happy life. Being a teacher, working with children and families is super important to me. I just struggle with the lifestyle I have as a working individual. I put in over eighty percent of my energy into a career and not into my health and personal well-being. I struggle to be successful in the working world and lead a life making mindful choices to capitalize on the short time that human life is.

In my opinion, there is so much out there that we take for granted; such as a morning cup of coffee, an impromptu song sang by a child, or a delightful dinner planned by a friend. When we stop noticing and appreciating these everyday events it can detract from the depth that is daily life. I rush through the important events of my day to spend just a few more hours completing a little job. By spending 50 plus hours each week on work related tasks, I miss out on vital parts of being human. I turn to items and ways of convenience, not gaining a full experience of each day. 

It kills me that this is the norm. 

This is why I've decided that it is time for me to focus on finding the strength to shed the speed we've been bred to embrace. To plan and consider thoughtful choices that are slow, deliberate and have a positive influence on the life I lead. 

Communication is an Act of Bravery

Communicating requires give and take; consideration and thought. To interact with others may include disagreement and conflict resolution. Communication is to teach someone something of importance; to present original ideas and statements of love. As social beings we must be the listener, but also sometimes the driver of conversation. To initiate dialogue is to think someone somewhere wants to hear and respond to the suggested idea. Confidence is crucial in each role.

From this typical listener... I hope you enjoy the ride...