We got through roughly half of what I'd planned for the day. We did a lot of goal setting today. But I don't necessarily think that was a bad thing.
We talked about the difference between goals and dreams.
From there, we talked about a goal vs. a SMART goal.
(This image is from my daily morning journals, available {here} and currently on sale).
We set reading, math, school, and life goals.
I modeled the differences between a goal and a SMART goal:
Yes, taking attendance on time is one of my goals. The office is quite pleased.
We then recorded our goals in our {flip book}.
We also reviewed the difference between daily, weekly, and monthly goals:
It was a busy, busy first day back. We also went to library, looked at our 50+ new books (I've been doing some cleaning), took the math pre-test, talked about our upcoming field trip, and got on the computer for Lexia practice.
Seeing how we're over a week into 2017, I guess I should get around to posting my goals. By sharing them, I'm more likely to be accountable for them.
I've been making steady progress with this goal. Last month I finished (finally) There's Nothing Worse Than Witches and started The Hammer of Thor. I've been trying to read a few chapters each night and type up notes about the novel as I go. I'm currently on chapter 22 (of around 60), so we're counting this as a win. As I {previously shared}, I've got the goal of at least one book per month.
With report card comments due soon, this one has been a tad more difficult to follow.
I didn't stay past 5 any day this week and didn't really bring any work home for the weekend, which are both steps in the right direction. I'm trying to preserve my morning times as quiet, productive moments.
On the bright side, I was selected to attend an educator's conference in Anaheim at the end of March. I'll be going with three other teachers from my school as well as my principal. I've heard of the guest speakers, but haven't read their books yet. I'm hopeful we'll get free copies at the conference.
Yes, I am easily bribed with free books. Fingers crossed!
I {previously shared} my resignation letter for Jamberry. We're going through our closets and donating what no longer fits, we don't wear, or is no longer reflective of who we are. Tonight we're going through our mugs (we have a lot) and donating ones that aren't sentimental or reflective of us as a couple.
I'm also applying this to friendships or relationships with people. I tend to over-invest in people, then are hurt when they don't reciprocate. I'm investing less in these toxic relationships (because some I have to keep professionally). I'm keeping my boundaries (they aren't a bad thing) and letting go of things (and relationships) that don't bring me joy.
Our wedding was expensive. We took every possible avenue to cut expenses and use coupons (more on that later), but it was still an expensive day.
We've also had some unexpected expenses lately (new tires), planned expenses (water softener, couch repair, bedroom set, security door), and an impulse buy (new TV, but for more than half off because of gift cards and Black Friday sales).
Unfortunately, as a teacher, I don't make a lot. (Yes, I know my job is rewarding and I'm in it for the outcome, but cliches aside, I work really hard and it'd be nice to be compensated more for my time).
However, we're taking lots of steps towards financial freedom. We've paid off our couch repair, new TV, the surprise tires he needed, and our new water softener. I paid off my car this week and have two payments left on our second security door. We're paying off all our credit card debt within the next few months and eating out less to not only be healthier, but because it's cheaper.
We're using Ibotta, cartwheel, and coupons as often as possible. We've limited our spending to food, gifts for others, and bills. We had a financial check in with a consultant, fund our savings each month, and have set realistic financial goals together as a couple.
We've mapped out our big expenses for the year (new mattress, new tires for me, home warranty, wedding & baby shower gifts) and luckily, they're pretty spread out. We are both also working overtime because we'd like to take a Disneyland trip in the upcoming months, but don't want to acquire new debt to do so.
We're using our upcoming tax return to fund our savings and tackle home improvement projects, which will only add value to our home for when we eventually sell and move.
It's difficult at times to say no to the pretty things at Marshall's, but I know in the long term, a mattress is more important.
But still...
#adulting.
It's really easy to focus on the negatives. Teaching is hard. My students, as lovely as they are, can be exhausting at times because of their behavior choices and fluctuating hormones (which they can't always control). People (and pets) get sick and that's scary. I am legitimately terrified by the new cabinet and President. 2016 was particularly brutal with the number of deaths (both personal and public icons).
However, focusing on the negatives and complaining doesn't really do any good. Yes, I understand the need to vent. However, I'm putting into place the idea of venting about a particular issue to just 1-2 people, then letting it go.
More importantly, I picked up a grateful journal and am writing in it each night. (Found at Marshall's for a few bucks.)
We also started a jar for 2017. Every time something awesome happens, we add it to the jar.
To be fair, I am way more into this then B is, but it'll be nice to look at on New Year's Eve.
I don't like the word diet and I don't like saying I'll completely cut something out of my life. Instead, we're focusing on healthy habits. Coincidentally, I'm also participating in Biggest Loser at work, so that money pot is a financial incentive. B is totally on board with healthy habits, which makes a huge difference because I have support at home and at school.
We're cooking more at home and eating earlier in the evening. I'm taking Waffles on her morning walks, but we've also added in evening walks which benefits everyone. He is really excited about a yoga DVD set, so we're trying to incorporate those work outs a few times per week. We're working on portion sizes and I've cut down on soda consumption. Instead of viewing soda as an every day drink, I'm limiting myself to 12 ounces per day and as a reward instead of a frequent drink. We're adding healthy snacks to the fridge as go-to items and I'm adding a dash of lemonade to my water in the morning for flavor.
We've also got cheat meals planned and enjoy them. Last night we went to Olive Garden, but didn't eat all of our meals. I had two bowls of soup, salad, and a small bit of my pasta. The rest was taken home and split into 2 smaller meals.
One of the best healthy habits tips I read was to ask for a to go box when you order food at a restaurant. Before you start eating, box up half of it for a later meal. Automatic portion control!
My last goal is an all-encompassing one. At the end of the day, my family matters. My husband matters. My overall health (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) matters. My pets matter. My friends matter.
My job is important, but it doesn't define me. There will always be more work that can be done. There won't always be more time to enjoy being a newlywed. There won't always be time to enjoy my (future) children when they're little. (Not a pregnancy announcement, kids are still in the distant future, not on the horizon.)
I'm vowing to spend more time on the big, important things.
What are your new year's resolutions?
We're about half way through with day 1 of 2017 and it's going fairly well. B enjoyed some Xbox time while I curled up with a book. Naps and walking the pup also occurred!
Correction, we enjoyed a book because I can't do anything alone and I wouldn't have it any other way.
As I look at my calendar for 2017, I'm optimistic for the year ahead.
1) I'm looking forward to B graduating college. For the past four years, he's been working (more than) full time, playing softball, and in school full time with the University of Phoenix. He's got a few classes left and is enjoying what he's studying, which is setting him up for a future career that he loves.
2) I'm looking forward to friends' weddings. We have one in April, one in May, two in September, and one in October. (That we know of...)
3) I'm looking forward to our friends having babies. One is due in January, one in February, two in April, one in May, and one in July...again, that we know of!
4) I'm looking forward to our honeymoon. It's occurring over the summer and on an island. We're still working on the details.
5) Finishing our bedroom. We purchased a bedroom set on Black Friday and the final piece was just delivered to the store. We'll be making a quick road trip to Arizona later this month to pick up the last dresser. We'll also be purchasing a new mattress in February (when they're on sale for President's Day) and building our new bed. It's a little tough for two adults and three pets to share a queen sized bed and the mattress is literally falling apart.
Here's a preview of our new furniture:
(We purchased from {American Furniture Warehouse} and have been pleased with their products. We now have a bed, 2 night stands, 3 dressers, a media stand, a recliner, a table, and eight chairs. #adulting!)
6) I'm looking forward to making our financial goals. My car will be paid off this month (years ahead of the loan). Our security door will be paid off in six months (so no interest!) and we're working side jobs to reduce our debt (the wedding was expensive). We've got a plan and are on our way to meeting our goals.
7) Working on my resolutions. I'm excited for the books ahead!
8) I'm excited to plan events. I'm working on a baby shower for early March and bridal events over the summer. B will be graduating (and then getting an epic party) and his aunt & uncle are celebrating their 40th anniversary. His second cousin is turning 18. His cousin is getting married in May. There's a lot of exciting events to help organize.
9) Traveling to new places. My bestie is teaching at UNC and I want to see her new home in Charlotte. We're also looking forward to taking our first Disneyland trip as a couple this year. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (CA) is also on the agenda for this year.
10) I'm looking forward to pursuing passions. I'm currently working on a scrapbook for a friend. B is building a 3D pirate ship. It's nice to be crafty separately, but still together.
11) I'm looking forward to finally finishing the Gilmore Girls revival! Over Thanksgiving break, I prioritized grading and family time. I am dreading the end (although it's already been spoiled) because I waited so long for this revival!
12) I'm really, really excited to get our wedding pictures back! We had a wonderful time and can't wait to see the professional shots. It's been about six weeks, so I'm hopeful they'll be done soon.
13) I'm looking forward to a tater tots & beer festival. We didn't order tickets in time for the one last November, so I'll be quicker with purchasing the tickets.
14) I'm looking forward to continuing to spend time with friends. We'll be enjoying potlucks and game nights as we all focus less on going out for wild crazy nights and adjust to life as adults in our thirties (gasp).
15) I'm excited to be a sounding board for close friends that are getting married. I'm still working on blog posts about my favorite parts.
16) I'm looking forward to our field trips. We're taking the kiddos to the Springs Preserve for a guided field trip in early February.
17) I'm excited to watch B help coach girls soccer at my school with Mrs. S. He'll be assistant coach to the fourth and fifth grade girls this spring.
What are you looking forward to in 2017?
Sometimes I feel like a hypocrite.
I love reading. I want my students to love reading.
But sometimes, no often times, I don't make time for reading myself. Yes, I read emails. Yes, I read social media. Yes, I'll flip through magazines on a regular basis.
But reading an actual book from start to finish in a timely manner? That's a rare event...and something I need to work on.
With 2017 looming right around the corner, I thought it'd be a good time to start thinking of some goals.
By sharing them, I'm more likely to hold myself accountable and actually complete these goals.
Now, that's not a SMART goal, so let's get a little more specific.
I'd like to tackle 17 novels in 2017, but if I get through one a month, that will suffice.
I'd like to read a mix of professional books, young adult adventures, and books that spark my interest. Some of them will be the Battle of the Books books since that's starting up in January.
I finished The Only Thing Worse than Witches a few days ago and just posted the novel guide {here} on my TpT site. The chronological order sort is in progress, as is the bundle guide.
Last night, I started The Hammer of Thor, the sequel to The Sword of Summer which is Rick Riordan's new Norse mythology series.
This book is January's task!
I've taken a few book suggestions from others, but need to prioritize and have the Battle of the Books ones done by the end of March.
Welcome, 2016.
I have some big goals for you. Twelve in fact, so let's get started on this new year.
1) Make healthier life choices.
I'm competing in my school's "biggest loser" competition, so I'm enjoying my last weekend of glorious, fattening foods. Starting Monday, healthier habits will ensue. I'll be giving up soda. We'll be cooking more at home and eating dinner before six pm. There will be less chips and more veggies and fruits. I'll hit my 10,000 steps a day and Waffles will get more walks. When we're watching television, we'll do stretches and lift on commercials. Smaller, healthier changes are in store for both of us. Both financial gain (biggest loser) and appearance (hello wedding dress in November) are huge motivators.
2) Be more adventurous...in the kitchen.
Anyone who knows me knows I hate cooking. I hate it. I always come up with a variety of excuses (it's hard to cook for one, I hate left overs, it's time consuming, etc). So, we're taking baby steps to counter act this. B and I will be trying one new recipe each week. We're starting with some crock pot meals and branching out from there. We're planning ahead and making grocery lists, together.
3) Be more organized.
I wrote about my first steps towards organization {earlier} and am looking forward to making small, purposeful changes.
4) Work smarter
Just small tweaks at work will make a huge difference. First, I'm going to print out rosters for each subject. Second, I'm stapling answer keys to the back of the rosters. Third, I'm setting a timer. I work best in the morning, so that's when I'll complete my tasks. Instead of grading at night, I'll grade in the morning. I wake up early enough to be able to set aside an hour before work each day (if needed) and still have time to get ready. I need to shut my door and be more focused when I'm at work. I'll never get everything done...and that's okay.
5) Stop Comparing Myself to Others
This one is self explanatory, but crucial. I'm not like my coworkers and I'm only in competition with myself.
6) Read more
I've got five more books for Battle of the Books by April, but I also want to make sure I'm taking time for myself to read each day. I've got a stack of books that I'm dying to dive into!
7) Take more "me" and "we" time...without feeling guilty
There's a running club at school I'd like to visit after school on Wednesdays. Some of my students are in it, so I think it'd be a nice way to build up a relationship with them. I also want to limit technology time and do more fun stuff as a couple, not just simultaneously work on things in the same room and call it together time. I'm also giving myself permission to leave work on time and do fun things on the weekend. For me, this means craft time, nap time, and reading. For B, his "me" time is soft ball (which I'll try to go to more games) and video games. We also want to go hiking and do more couple activities with friends.
8) Focus on the right people
I set ridiculously high expectations for myself. I often invest too much energy and emotion into friendships, which when not reciprocated, leaves me devastated. So this year, to the best of my ability, I will not focus on those that don't want to be my friend and instead cultivate the relationships that matter.
9) Work Less, Live More
As a teacher, I far exceed forty hours a week. With three side businesses ({Teacherspayteachers}, {Jamberry}, and {Younique}), I often feel pulled in several directions at once. I'm going to set small, purposeful goals and then spend the rest of my time doing things I want to do. Sure, I'd like to hit promotions within my small businesses, but I'm also not willing to be that annoying, crazy sales lady. I hope my friends know that I'm all about girl time, mimosas, and bonding. Essentially, my business motto is this: If you want pretty nail wraps or make up, let me know! If you're just here for the brownies, that's cool too.
10) Fiscal Responsibility
News flash: weddings are expensive. I'm blessed to have help from my mom, B's family, and loved ones. While we're both seizing opportunities for overtime, I think we need to curtail our spending. Part of this will come from planning ahead for meals, so we aren't tempted to pick up take out on the way home. Part of this means focusing on big expenses (security door, new couch, new bedroom set, new flooring, vacations, and so forth) rather than short term items. We're couponing (thank you Cartwheel app!) and B's been doing a better job of comparing the prices of items, rather than just grabbing something off the shelf. In 2015, we paid off our new dishwasher, our security door, a new water heater, his wedding band, and his truck. We'll have our credit cards paid off in February and my car will be paid off before the wedding. I'm already funding my 403b at work on a monthly basis, but I'd like to be more serious about funding my Roth IRA and saving for the future. Luckily, most of our friends are feeling a bit poor after the holidays (you know, like the rest of the country) so we're all in this fiscal responsibility thing together!
11) Find more joy
Teaching, at times, is the most disappointing of careers. There's a lot of politics involved and I'm not paid enough, plain and simple. But instead, I'm going to focus on cultivating joy and authentic learning experiences in the classroom.
This extends outside of work. I'm excited about my wedding. But there's lots between now and November to be thrilled about as well. Waffles will turn one in March and have a Barkday celebration. The cats will turn five in April (how did that happen?), B and my bestie both turn 30 (uh oh!). I've got two other weddings (that I know of...), engagement shower(s)?, and engagement pictures. We bought our close friends an escape room ticket, so a group of 8 of us will be doing that soon.
I want to make my weekends mean something, and that means adding more joy (and less work) into my life.
12) Use the internet with intention
We've all been there. I sit down to check facebook real quick, but then I'm reading things I don't need to. I'm checking up on what other people are doing instead of living my own life. Then pinterest calls, and soon enough, an hour has gone by with nothing to show. The internet is crucial, but I want to set time limits and use it with intention. A large part of this means to stop multi-tasking. Yes, it seems counter productive, but I need to focus. If I'm working on a region ppt, I should have open ppt and only internet tabs related to what I'm working on. It seems simple enough and ties right in with working smarter.
What are your goals for this new year?
It's a new year and for most of us, that means new resolutions and a fresh start.
I'm not quite ready to sift through my thoughts in terms of resolutions, but I will share one:
Be more organized.
I struggle, at times, to stay organized. I have the best intentions, but follow through can be tricky. I'm working on it!
But, I've already made a few significant gains in this area!
First, I bought a {new calendar} and put all the crucial dates on it (math trainings, days off, our wedding, and so forth).
More importantly, I showed B where it is (same place as last year) and asked him to write his extra commitments on it instead of just telling me. I also made sure pens are nearby, so there's no excuse!
There were lots of cute options, but I went with the cheapest and smallest...still fun! I'm trying to be considerate of his feelings and not have polka dots on everything we own...
I think part of my struggle with calendars and planners is which option to go with. It seems silly, but it's a debate in my mind each year if I want to organize my life from January to December or August to July. I think I've finally settled on January through December for the house, and August to July for my school calendar. I always tend to fall in love with new planners in January, but I'm not going to get a new one for half of a school year.
Teacher problems, people!
Also, I realized my gift wrapping containers were getting a little full, which brings me to my second area of organization: the guest bedroom.
See, I save gift bags and reuse them. I stock up on gift bags and wrapping paper after the holidays when it's on sale. I'm also not ashamed to snag cute bags when they're on sale, because I hate spending full price on wrapping supplies.
So, yesterday I bought this gem at Target (save $5 when you spend $25!)
...and used it to organize my gift wrapping supplies this morning. The top drawer has gift labels (which I love finding cute options in the Dollar Spot), the middle is assorted tissue paper, and the bottom is for bags and gift boxes.
The whole project took about ten minutes, but I feel so much better now!
Task three: the fridge
After returning from vacation, we threw away left overs and half-used jars (mostly sauces). I looked up new crockpot recipes on pinterest, made a grocery list, and we went shopping. We're trying to eat healthier and try new foods (more on those resolutions later), so this was the first step.
Our fridge is not packed full of food. There is what we plan to eat for the next few days and lots of fresh fruits (bananas, pineapple) and veggies. We stocked our freezer and pantry, but the fridge will be about half full. We want to do a better job at making sure we eat what we buy.
I'll spend the next few days slowly putting Christmas and winter decorations away. I'll tidy up the house as I go. My desk at work is a little scary when I think about it, but that's a Monday morning problem!
I'm excited to start the year organized!
What are some of your new years resolutions?
