I love fresh starts and new beginnings. That is typically what we think of when we flip the calendar to the new year, isn't it? All the things we didn't do or succeed at last year become something we can try for again.

Tim and I usually spend the first few days of the new year putting away the Christmas decorations, cleaning, putting up the normal decor, rereading cards, celebrating our youngest daughter's birthday, and spending some time thinking about what we want to accomplish in this new year ahead of us.

I think we got most of those things done but there were some unexpected elements, too. We had a few days with some good friends from out of town which brought tons of conversations and laughter. Kimberly spent a couple of days in bed (or visiting the bathroom) as she had a touch of the flu... and of course, that happened on her birthday.

So I haven't had a lot of time to noodle on my goals for 2012... but I've done some thinking. There are the typical thoughts on finances, eating healthier, being more diligent with exercise, making a cleaning schedule I will actually stick with, etc. Yeah - all the things that every year I think I will do better at.

But the thought that keeps popping up is to simplify life this year - get rid of the extra "stuff", streamline the schedule, don't add to the schedule...

In other words, enjoy the small things that come;
~ quiet mornings when everyone is off to school/work and I can make a cup of cappuccino, put on some quiet music, light a candle, and spend some extended time with God (I love mornings like this!)
~ unexpected conversations with my children (especially as I think of my 2 oldest ones moving this summer)
~ the sense of accomplishment when I clean out a cupboard or drawer (and not refill it!)
~ not worrying if my complicated meal plan will work out - just make a tuna sandwich!
~ a student playing a piece of music with feeling (and correct rhythm)
~ time with friends and loved ones
~ enjoyment from writing down my thoughts
~ curling up with a good book
~ getting a funny little note from Tim in the middle of my day
~ a ray of sunshine that breaks through the clouds on a dreary day

The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of making life a bit less hectic... sounds like I have a good plan for 2012!