New year, new layout, new motivations.

Though I haven’t actually started the new year till today, January 6, I am determined to make 2009 a year of major changes.

It sometimes seems the universe moves against me. So many things seem frustratingly intent on making my life more difficult. But that is one of the things I intend to change – that attitude. Really…just because the shovel broke on the ice-encased driveway does not mean there is some cosmic force working against me. It means the shovel was old and worn and I should have used the hoe to break the ice better. Additionally, having that attitude – expressing that attitude – is setting a poor example for my children. I’ve always tried to avoid being a “do as I say not as I do” parent. Blaming the universe is just another attempt to avoid responsibility.
I want to improve my productivity at work, also. There are many projects that have gone unaccomplished; many that will apply to my desired future in the technology field.

I intend to really LEARN something this semester at school, too. It is essential to our ultimate goal (see below) that I network my networking skills into something beneficial.

The biggest goal of the year is to move out of the trailer and get a real house. I have a lot of work there, but everything we do has to be working toward that. That is one of the main reasons Jen is working at Kroger for some extra money. Paying off bills leads to that. Spending less leads to that. Organizing the house leads to that. Packing things up, weeding through books, boxing up yard sale detritus – it all leads to selling the trailer and getting into a new house.

I want to make 2009 a creative year, too. This is going to be the hardest part for which to find time. Writing, drawing, painting, crafts, etc. It is high time I do something with the skills I so enjoyed as a child and young adult.

Of course, all of this takes a back seat to my main job – dad and husband. I take great pride in these, and it certainly is my intention to improve my performance at both of them. I will do so my focusing more on the kids, and by doing what Jennifer tells me to do. That may sound pandering and narcissistic, but 95% of the time she’s right!

Everything we do this year will help us move toward the goal of getting into a new house. And there is only one reason we want to get a new house (with a yard.)

So that we can get another dog.