Thoughts on Thirty!

Last week I officially passed into "real" adult territory with my 30th birthday.  The big 3-0 makes it feel like there's no more negotiating my adult status.  I'm certainly thankful for everyday, and I know it's a beautiful gift to be celebrating 30.  In reality, I actually feel like 30 will probably fit me pretty well...despite needing to dye a few more gray hairs, no longer being carded because I definitely don't pass for a 21 year old, and having to invest in a SMOKIN' HOT mouth guard (I recently found out I'm a lifelong teeth grinder).  

What's 30 for, if not for spending $600 on a custom mouth guard?

Anyways, I've been mulling over this transition.  Recently the importance of intention has become very apparent to me, and I hope to become more intentional going forward.  Lately life has felt more reactive then proactive, and thirty seems like an excellent opportunity to change that.  Here are 10 goals I'm focusing on over the next year.

I know some of these aren't clearly defined goals and will not be "checked off" this list a year from now, but it's my list and I'll break the "goal-setting" rules if I want to.

So basically I'm starting off 30 with rebellion.

1) Invite people over more often.  
In my twenties I wasted too much time believing our home wasn't "guest ready" and I wouldn't always extend the invite.  Now I know that it's more important to me to practice hospitality then to have a well put together place.  Even though we live in a rental that doesn't reflect my style preferences, I want our home to be somewhere that people come and feel welcome. So what if my living room doesn't have the cutest accessories and the lower level is still jam packed with moving boxes from 18 months ago?  You're welcome at our place anyway.  

To really put this into practice beginning in November Chris and I will provide an open invite to anyone who wants to come to our place for lunch.
Basically, COME PLAY AT OUR HOUSE AND WE'LL FEED YOU.

"Sunday Soup and Salad at the Schroeders"

Date: Every Sunday, Beginning November 2nd, 2014

Time: 12:30 p.m.

 Chris would also like me to throw in "and sometimes sandwiches" because that would also be easy prep, and my husband has a deep love for these delicious delights.

2) Embrace the Gym (or Great Outdoors!) at least three times a week.  
Two years ago, I was a regular attendee at YMCA kickboxing and zumba classes.  Now, I'm lucky if I make it outside to walk Lexi for ten minutes.

Unfortunately our occasional walk to Starbucks for a delicious indulgence WITH whip doesn't count towards my workout goals.  

I have really struggled with how to make workouts regular with a baby, but I'm ready to make the extra effort here.  And If anyone has recommendations for exercise classes in the Johnson County area, I'm ALL EARS.
       

3) Be More Heart, and Less Attack.  
I've been listening to this song written by the group NeedToBreathe, and I love it.  I'm trying to be a little more like this everyday. "Slow to anger, quick to laugh, be more heart and less attack".          

4) Attempt one month on a healthy eating plan.
Chris and I did a "natural November" two years ago, and I am going to try something similar again this year.  Since Adelaide has been born, it's been too easy to let myself eat whatever is consumable with one hand and call it a meal.  I'm not interested in weight loss, but I definitely feel the need for a healthy living reset.  If I'm really honest with myself oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are not a breakfast food.  

5) Put the Phone Down.
I want to be present for the people I love, and sometimes I find myself passively checking what's the latest thing on social media.  I need to get this in check, now.  I plan to make certain times of the day "hands free".  I'm thinking evenings after 6:00 p.m. are a good place to start.    

6) Get consistent with my Bible reading.  
I often read books about the Bible and faith in general, but in reality, I need to go TO the Bible.  I've started using the "She Reads Truth" app to help keep me on track.     

7) Complete a 30 day Organization Challenge.
I've told Chris everyday for the past two weeks that I am UP.TO.HERE. with our organization probz.  We have very little storage space in our rental, so stuff (specifically baby stuff) has been piling up and I need a plan to get our organizational issues under control.  Also, I love a good challenge.  I'm gonna get started on this, stat.  

Case in point: the current state of our basement.  I wish I were kidding.

8) Be More Intentional as a Mom.  

Adelaide is at a really fun age right now where she is so interactive and loves to play, play, play.  I hope to come up with a unique and fun age-appropriate activity at least once a week for her. 

This is what I'm talkin' bout! 

 I also want to become more consistent about documenting our daily adventures together.  I have this awesome one line a day journal, but I'm not what you'd call consistent in using it. 

9) Become a better memory keeper. 

I am awful at the laundry game.  

I am probably the worst grocery shopper on the planet (even with a list).

But one thing I know I can do better then anyone else?  

I can definitely be the best memory keeper for my family.  

This entails a couple things.  First, I want to get better at photography.  Chris purchased online classes for me for Christmas last year, and I just need to prioritize the lessons and practice.  Second, I need to get the memories documented!  This means getting the thousands of pictures we have on our computer into picture books (again, suggestions appreciated!)  I'd also love to be more consistent about blogging our stories, but first things first, right?

10) Rejoin the ranks of Home Ownership

I've really missed spending money on home maintenance. 

Just kidding.

We're just ready to have our own place again. 

Here's to another trip around the sun!