Thoughts, not resolutions, for the New Year

In my year end closing as I sit here drinking champagne by myself in my living room after a perfect date with my sweet little boy and closest friends then a quick visit with my favorite girls (Mom and Lindz) and a low key celebration, instead of posting meaningless resolutions for the new year I have decided to post important life lessons I have learned this year.  This year has been one of dramatic changes, more ups and downs than any one year in my entire 30 year life.  But it has also given me a better understanding of myself and my needs as well as my child's needs.  There is still work and learning to be done and although I'm pretty sure there will always be, 2012 has given my life new clarity I thought I would share. 

Its okay to feel lonely when you are alone. 

You have to let go of your perception of how you thought your life would be in order to live the life that's meant for you.

It takes a village to raise a child.  Okay, maybe not a village but at least a good group of family and friends.

Your family and friends are your Achilles heel.  They keep you standing when you don't think its possible anymore. 

Your mind is your best friend and worst enemy but only if you let it be.

Cooking and cleaning releases endorphins and stress (maybe cooking more than cleaning in my case but both feel pretty darn good).

When you need reassurance that how you are feeling is just given the situation, do a little role playing (if not with a friend, just in your head).  When you hear it in come out of someone else's mouth you will probably find what you are feeling doesn't sound so off base.

There is nothing wrong with needing help in whatever way from your loved ones.  Everyone does it in some way, shape, or form in their lifetime. 

It can be difficult for someone who is such a giver to be a taker but its necessary from time to time and more so in a time of need.

A mother's wrath is 100 times worse than any normal woman scorned.

Your mental health should be at the top of your list of priorities.  Never sacrifice that for another person.

Children are way smarter (and sometimes more of a smart ass) than we ever give them credit for.  They feel, see, and hear more than any adult.

You don't have to finish everything you want to or think you should in one day.  There is always tomorrow.

Never put anything you think you have to do above doing things with your child.  Its funny the things they remember as being a fun or good time.

Lastly, I will share one that I learned today.  Grandmothers aren't meant for discipline or structure, they are meant for giving a love and legacy that no one else can give.  There is nothing that is going to change that so I just have to get over it.  I'm sure I will never fully understand what this means until I have a grandchild of my own but I do know what that love and legacy meant to me from my grandmothers. 

I'm happy to be celebrating the end of one year and the beginning of another.  2013 has a lot of good in store for Max and myself and fortunately I have already seen a small glimpse into some of the changes to come.  Cheers to more learning and life lessons!