You'd think we were related (& my year's goal)

Two year old me at my Grandma and Grandpa Rhine's house - July 1984

Eight and a half month old Cricket - October 2011

The new year has begun. When did that happen? I saw everyone’s updates on their blogs and instagram, but I forgot it happened for me, as well. I have been waiting for so long to start a fresh year. It is not that I have regrets from 2011, but rather my goals have become stronger and more focused. I am ready for the year to begin, except it already has. When did that happen again?

I feel like I have succeeded in watching my little girl grow slowly the last ten months. I have enjoyed each milestone as it has come and not rushed her to the next. I’ve soaked her in and enjoyed her smile, her eyes and her smell. Why have I not done the same with myself? I’ve rushed myself to the point of not having a clear direction. I’ve anticipated the next step only to forget the step about living in the moment.

I worked in my studio while Cricket was napping the other day. I created art instead of creating excuses. Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve sat down and gotten lost in a project? Too long. I had a smile to my step the rest of the day knowing I spent two hours using one of my favorite God blessed gifts…creativity! It was wonderful. The clothes did not get folded and the kitchen did not get organized, but I was fulfilled, energized and focused. It made me a better mama, a better wife and a better me. I made dinner and was happy that Mr. Schalk got to spend time in his workshop feeling the same joy I had earlier in the day. I felt balanced. I gave God the glory and remembered that He is cheering us on as a family. God wants us to live in these fleeting moments He has given us. He wants us to find our gifts and use them to His glory and to the best of our abilities. That is my goal this year – to truly live. Live in the purposes He has laid out for me and for my family.

My little Cricket will walk this year. She will {hopefully} say “Mama” as she welcomes me home from work. My husband will grow more handsome in my eyes as our love grows stronger and another year will pass. Without a doubt, this year will hold many more adventures, turns and joys that only God in His awesome creativity can plan. That is life. That is faith. That is the blessing of each day. Here is to the living!

xo, Rachel