Here in the South, there are lists upon lists of superstitions and old wives’ tales on how to begin a new year.  Everything from eating black-eyed peas for good luck to not washing clothes for fear one will wash away any good luck.  My family was never superstitious, but growing up I remember many meals on January 1st consisting of black-eyed peas, greens and cornbread.  One of the sayings I always found particularly amusing is how one spends New Year’s Day is indicative of how the year will go.  My household has had exactly 0 collards, peas or cornbread today and both dishes and clothes have been washed.  The day has mostly consisted of being lazy and watching movies.  And a dead chicken. (!)  One of our roosters lost a fight with a dog during the night, so that was a fun greeting this morning.  I’d love to know what superstition says that means for our year.

While I’m not a believer in old wives’ tales or superstitions, I do know that how our year goes depends at least in part on how we live.  Our attitudes, our day to day choices, and what fills our calendars.  We set goals, make resolutions, and promise ourselves that this year will be different.  We’re all hopeful on January 1st that the year ahead will be the best year ever.  I’m the nerd who not only sets goals (two pages worth**insert face palm emoji here**because I seriously need to get my act together) but also chooses a word for the year.  This year my word is ‘mindful’.  I aim to be more mindful in all aspects of life.  Honestly that word wasn’t even on my radar until a therapist suggested it. To practice mindfulness, one is fully present in the moment- something this multi-tasking Mama stinks at.  Even being more purposeful in my actions, one thing at a time, would be a huge improvement.  So I’m aiming to make these changes and really strive to live a healthier- mental and physical -life this year.

One of things I need to change is blogging.  I would love to write more, but I’m honestly not sure how to go about it.  All of these random ideas on what to write run through my head, but then I know that there are hundreds, if not thousands, of other blogs on those same topics.  So more often than not, I hit a wall and don’t post at all.   I would love to expand and write about things that interest me, but I honestly don’t know what is even appealing.  What would be interesting.  I’m very aware the world doesn’t need another Mommy blog, travel blog, crafting and design blog, homeschooling blog, and on and on and on.  They’re out there by the droves.  So what do I do?

I welcome feedback.  I would love to hear from you in the comments, in a message, in a text, in person; however I can hear ideas, I’m up for it!  And hey, I know part of writing is developing thick skin, so if you feel I’m better off shutting down my laptop and walking away, let me know.  I really would just love to hear feedback.

And while you’re at it, I’d also love to hear your word for 2018.  I’m excited for the things to come and am so thankful that no matter what this new year holds, God is already there.  We can all start fresh knowing He is and will always be in control.

Wishing you a very blessed 2018!

(and don’t forget that feedback!)