2014, I’m feeling pretty good about you. One day in and you’re already proving yourself to be a great year. Today, Matthew and I went over to my parents for a movie day. For years now it’s been our family tradition to go to the movies on New Years Day {since the 90s actually when we went to see Balto!}. Today we went to see Lone Survivor, which was based off the true story of Marcus Luttrell, US Navy SEAL. It’s an amazing story {he wrote a book that Matthew and my Dad both read and loved}, and to see it on the big screen was incredible. I’m so grateful for the men and women who fight with such passion, loyalty, and determination for our country. They are not appreciated enough. I admired many of the SEALS’ characteristics, especially their unwavering willpower and strength. They did not give up. It makes me want to enter this new year with that same enthusiasm and energy. 2013 was a great year, but it didn’t come without its frustrations. I’ve learned some things this past year that have helped me put together a list of hopes and wishes for this year ahead.
2014, please bring less stress, or at least allow me to handle it better. I’m going to work on balance this year. Trying to find a balance between my job, my blog, and my personal life is so important. I don’t only need more time for Matthew and my family and friends, but also for myself- to do crafts, cook, watch a movie, even go to bed early. I can’t keep running on so little sleep. I’m shooting for a 7 hour minimum!
I hope to read more. Last year I was so good about reading {thank you Kindle!}, but unfortunately that tapered off a bit towards the middle of the year. I have a huuuge book list that I’d love to work my way through. I also want to stay more up to date with current events. In college I was a Peace and Conflicts Studies minor so I was reading multiple newspapers a day. I want to be more aware of what’s going on in the world.
I hope to pick up a hobby or two this year. I’m excited to be taking a calligraphy class this weekend, something I’ve been looking forward to for a few months now. I used to love calligraphy when I was younger so to get back into it will be so fun. Lord knows my penmanship has suffered thanks to the computer. haha!
I hope to make health a priority. Taking my vitamins, scheduling those long overdue doctors appointment, getting more sleep {mentioned twice now so you know it’s a big one}, and getting back in shape. I’m not trying to lose weight but I want to build up my strength and tone my muscles. I played soccer for 11 years growing up and have always loved running and working out. It was a huge part of my life. It’s only been the past 2 1/2 years that I’ve found it more challenging to fit my workouts in. Working out has always helped me feel more confident and handle stress more effectively. There are so many benefits, all of which I desperately need. I’ve come up with a fitness plan that I’m determined to stick to. Luckily I have Matthew as my trainer so he better keep me in check!
I have some silly things on my list, too, like cook every recipe in one of my favorite cookbooks, use all of my unused giftcards, and hang up my clothes at night. I want to work on being on time, and also enjoy my time. I want to put down my phone more often, put the laptop away, and really be present in the moment. Life passes by far too quickly and I want to say that I really enjoyed and lived every moment.
For this blog, I hope to include more personal posts. I know I said I wanted to work on that last year too, but this year I mean it. I really do! I feel like last year I was really able to grow my blog, but I also fell into this pressure to define my week of posts. While consistency is important, I don’t think it should be set it stone. Some weeks I might not post 5 days a week, some might be 3/4 and others could be 6/7. If I have something to post I should do it and not feel like I can’t because it “doesn’t fit into the schedule.” I’ve been sharing recipes since I started my blog, and while I always will, I might not some weeks. Maybe I’ll post a DIY instead, or a restaurant review, or just some photos of what we did over the weekend. Remember when I did that back in the day? I’m hoping this more balance thing will be a good thing and benefit the blog as well. Matthew and I are probably going to move again this year, too, so to be able to document more of our new place will be really fun and exciting! Ginger also might get a little brother or sister. You heard it hear first you guys..I might be ready for a puppy!! I’d also love to give content that you all are interested in, so I’m taking requests 🙂
2014, I hope you’re full of wonderful memories and experiences. I hope I document you more, through photos and words. I want something to hold onto! I hope you bring many celebrations with friends, delicious meals, walks on the beach, evening bike rides, adventures with Ginger, and countless dates with Matthew. I hope you’re full of laughter and countless smiles. I can’t wait to learn and discover new things each day! 2014, you’re going to be a good one!
What things are you looking forward to in 2014? I’m cheering you on for any hopes and resolutions you have for the year ahead! You can do it!
Welcome to M Loves M! My name is Mara and I created this lifestyle site in 2009 as a place to share my love of fashion, beauty, food and entertaining. I moved from Southern California to Idaho and love adventuring with my husband Matthew, our two children, and our dog Ginger. We're also pregnant with baby #3, due this autumn! I strive to create a site that’s relatable to women, while also being inspirational. I’m so glad you stopped by!
