1st things FIRST

Okay, this is my attempt at creating a functional tool to help me stay focused on the things in my life that REALLY matter. It's my 2014 helper. I want to be able to keep up with the bustle of my life, without sacrificing the gems that happen each and every day. That's part of my motivation to journal here--it helps me to slow down and acknowledge the little miracles in my world!

It's hard, because everything "matters" on some level. It matters if I buy groceries. It matters if I sweep up those crumbs. It matters if I take out that trash OR pay the bills OR work an extra nursing shift OR wipe that nose OR prepare my music time for Primary OR text a friend OR make breakfast OR tie that shoe OR feed the bird OR fold the socks OR check the oil OR answer the phone OR OR OR.

But it REALLY matters when I 
read that book with my child
listen intently
pray for my family
read the word of God
sing with all my heart
snuggle without trying to rush off to the next thing
feel the nudgings of the Spirit
look into those blue eyes (they've all got 'em)
help with a school project
welcome expirimentation, even when it comes with a mess
get excited about that idea with them
watch the sunrise
whisper "I love you"
feel that warm hand in mine
go on that run
draw a bath and then sit with them while they play
radiate happiness & peace
bite my tongue, even when I'm tired
answer a heartfelt question
CREATE MOMENTS THAT MATTER!

My PLAN:
Every Sunday, before I hit that pillow, I will check in with myself & these happy paisleys. These sheets of paper will hold ideas for connecting with EACH member of my family EACH week. Some ideas will most certainly flow over from one week to the next. I won't get to each of the ideas each week. But I WILL be re-centering on WHAT MATTERS MOST, which is my relationship with my Heavenly Father, my family & myself.

It's a whirlwind of a life we all live. I pray this helps. And I think it will; the Spirit nudged me with the idea. Can't go wrong following that!