Saturday, December 29, 2018

Resolutions for 2019

The intro is from my post fivyears ago on resolutions (just because it still accurately expresses my thoughts!):

"Let me start by saying that just hearing the phrase New Year's resolutions rubs me wrong. I think that one reason is because weight loss is the first thing to come to mind because it is so common. Also, no one actually keeps them or remembers them after a few months. So they seem pointless and not very profitable.

But... it is hard for me to let such an opportunity to pass me by. I relish times of purpose to be still and reflect. [I sound like a Mary -- haha, but I really am a Martha-doer struggling to find (designate) time to be still and reflect.

If God does not forbid it, and it strengthens your love-relationship with Christ, then I want to take advantage! Not that I cannot make "resolutions" other times of the year, but I have to be somewhat forced to sit back and reflect or it just does not happen because life is constantly demanding! Since this new year's time is already designated for making resolutions, then I'm going to let it "force" me :)

I find that I frequently need to evaluate my life in all areas to keep it going in the direction I want it to (towards glorifying God, of course). I hate regret and don't want to be on my death-bed, looking back on my life, and thinking, "If only I had done something with that part of my life back when I had the chance before it spiraled out of control."

The best way to change anything is to alter my spiritual life and let God have more access to my heart so He can bring true and lasting change to myself..."

I loved what I did last year — the idea and what I chose! (I certainly plan on doing that concept again in the future.) But, last year proved to be really chaotic for me. And, it’s hard to keep resolutions (make changes) amidst a bunch of inconsistencies and changes! Some months I did well and other months I forgot to even read the resolution I had made for that month ;) Enough excuse-making...

Now, I have learned over the years that when I make a resolution, it has to be completely based on reality, meaning I cannot expect Ricky to help me keep my resolution. I have to be able to do it entirely by myself that doesn’t take time... Something that considers our family and circumstances.

I am making one resolution for the year and praying that there are repercussions that extend and influence other areas.

  • To always consider Ricky first. Before what I think we need to do or should consider doing. Let Ricky do what he chooses to do in peace and without judgment from me. I’ve spent the last 11 years pushing us. For naught. I might think that I’m just trying to be respectful of others, which is a good thing, but even so, I am going to put Ricky first. That’s my job and my calling. Unless Ricky is well nourished physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, then our family is literally not going anywhere or doing anything.
Be kind and build each other up.   1 Thessalonians 5:11

A wise woman builds her house...   Proverbs 14:1

For if you live according to the flesh, you will die. But if by the power of the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, then you will live.   Romans 8:13

Sunday, December 23, 2018

Merry CHRISTmas!





2018

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him...
Romans 15:13


Rejoicing in the God of hope! 
Ricky, Aidan, Aolani (almost 9), Micaiah (7), Raphael (1)



What an adventurous year to reflect upon! From beginning our vocation as missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators, to training in Orlando, to finishing up the court reporting career, to embarking on this epic, cross-country road trip. All the while, our family has had the joy of watching the first year of life for baby Raphael - so fun! God is good.