Non-negotiables. Period.

{Art Journal Page: "My inner Mother" My favorite was the little notes in the lunch box!}

I have been trying to sit down and write all week long... but the energy seems to be drained out of my body and my mind these past few days and my bed seems to win over writing. But that still leaves my thoughts to dance around my head as I look upon the end of this month- I ask myself: Did I accomplish this month's goal of setting my priorities? Did I constantly put them first? What are my non-negotiables-  you know the things that are not up for negotiation? 

Isn't it amazing that when we are going through a trial in our life like a loss or a setback (example here) that it seems like the decision and capability to put those priorities first is much more simple. It seems as if the world stops and nothing else matters but those things you cherish the most. During times like these, it's so crystal clear. 

But, soon with time, the mundane obligations and daily responsibilities creep back into life and that clarity becomes a foggy mess. At least it feels that way to me. 

For me, it seems like there are some non-negotiables that pull me out of the fog and I always go back to. 

Some include:

1. Make time for God in my life. Start every day with prayer and spiritual message- include the kids.

2. Make sure my children, husband, and family remain first before any other job. As Dr. Laura would say, "I am my kid's mom." Also, Monday nights are dedicated to family night. Period.

3. Be the kind of Mother that I envision. Take the time to teach, cuddle, laugh, and play each and every day- even if the house chores take a back seat.

4. Serve and love others unconditionally. Leave time in the day to be able to serve... and teach my kids how to do the same.

I am sure there are more out there that I missed or need more work. Like weekly "date nights"- It seems like they should happen more often then they do- but it baby steps.

 What are some of your "NON-NEGOTIABLES?"

besitos,

xo

January 2013 Monthly Challenge: Prioritize

 I have been meaning to put up my January Challenge this month... like all month. But it seems like one thing after another pops up and I don't have a moment to express what I want to express about it. Ha- which is so fitting because this topic is exactly what I need to get myself focused on what really are the ESSENTIALS (See post here) in my life and unfortunately, this blog doesn't make it to the top of the priority list most of the time. :) Which may be a good thing- I think I could blog about stuff all day.

But what a great reminder to continue putting aside the daily things in life for the things that are the most important to me.

This month's challenge is to:

pri·or·i·tize  

/prīˈôrəˌtīz/

Verb Designate or treat (something) as more important than other things Determine the order for dealing with (a series of items or tasks) according to their relative importance

 I loved what President Uchtdorf said in his talk: "Of Regrets and Resolutions":

"My wife, Harriet, and I love riding our bicycles. It is wonderful to get out and enjoy the beauties of nature. We have certain routes we like to bike, but we don’t pay too much attention to how far we go or how fast we travel in comparison with other riders.

However, occasionally I think we should be a bit more competitive. I even think we could get a better time or ride at a higher speed if only we pushed ourselves a little more. And then sometimes I even make the big mistake of mentioning this idea to my wonderful wife.

Her typical reaction to my suggestions of this nature is always very kind, very clear, and very direct. She smiles and says, “Dieter, it’s not a race; it’s a journey. Enjoy the moment.”

Sometimes in life we become so focused on the finish line that we fail to find joy in the journey. I don’t go cycling with my wife because I’m excited about finishing. I go because the experience of being with her is sweet and enjoyable.

How right she is!"

Sigh...this month my priorities come first- everything else second. And for me, being a mother and wife to my little family is on the very top of the list- wouldn't have it any other way.

besitos, xo