Big Plans, I Say!

In the words of Bob Shea and  Lane Smith, I've got big plans, BIG PLANS I SAY!
Now, I just need my sidekick mynah bird.

Last month, I turned 29 and I've been compiling a list of dreams, goals, tasks, and other general undertakings I'd like to accomplish in the final year of my twenties. I'm calling it my 29 Before 30 List. 29 items to be checked off while I'm still 29.

I've consulted a few people on ideas for the list. Jared said this was the last year I could get a tattoo or get my nose pierced again. Thankfully, I have no real desire to do either of those things. I'll leave room on my list for things that matter more deeply to me.

This list is going to be central to my life in the coming year. I'm going to keep it posted in my house so my husband and I, and anyone else who comes over, can hold me accountable to the goals and desires placed on my heart for the next twelve months.

Why, you ask? Because I'm a procrastinator. Sometimes, I feel I would be elected the Governess of Procrastinators... if we could stop putting off the vote. We only get one shot at this life, and it's time I took hold of the time I've been given and stop putting off until tomorrow what's important today. There will be more later on this topic, because it's one of my 29.


So - without further ado, and in no particular order at this time...

29 Before 30

1. Procrastinate Less
2. REALLY go gluten free
3. REALLY go dairy free
4. Exercise and get in kick ass shape
5. Get pregnant
6. Getaway with just the husband and me
7. Go to the mountains in winter
8. Try 3 sports I've never tried before
9. Sew Erabelle an outfit
10. Read my Bible everyday
11. Give away more than I buy
12. Score under 100 in a round of golf
13. Write my children's book
14. Get behind on TV shows
15. Read 10 Books
16. Knock off 5 more state parks on our hike tour
17. Document Erabelle's firsts
18. Keep up with a journal/blog
19. Take and print more pictures of family and nature
20. Decorate our master bedroom
21. Decorate the nautical bonus room
22. Create a learning center for EB & Eli
23. Be intentional about celebrating people
24. Cook home meals/ meal prep
25. Run an obstacle course with my friends
26. Find a mentor
27. Find a mentee
28. Increase and hone my crafting desire and abilities
29. Volunteer and serve

A good mix of things from every walk of my life that need to be addressed in the next year.

The overarching theme for me is to make the most of my time. In being at home for the last eight months, I have learned that I'm addicted to entertainment. It drives me crazy if the TV or music is not on in the background. I want to appreciate the stillness and the quiet and break out of my pattern of laziness to actually accomplish all these things on my list. Sadly, most of these to do's have been on my list for a year (if not longer) and my own selfishness has prevented me from pursuing dreams and enjoying my family and friends. I used to be a really fun and dynamic person, but I don't feel that way anymore. It's time to be more of the me I actually want to be, and less of the me that is content with mediocrity.

Here's to a great year.

Holy Spirit, guide me through the next year. Help me to focus on what matters eternally, and not what feels easiest temporarily. Lead me into the truth of who God created me to be and let me show Christ's light and love to others intentionally. Change my focus, change my heart, and change my life all for the Father's glory.   --amen