Intentionally 2018

In just a few days time, we'll be saying "So long!" to 2017 and looking to a fresh, new year. 

 For me, this was one of the best years yet because it was more about enjoying what I've got and living in the moment. There were some really big, special, unforgettable and amazing moments, too! 

January started with the first 1/2 of my Coast to Coast accomplishment in Disneyland. Brian got to visit the beautiful state of California for the first time and we had a blast exploring for a few short but sweet days together (read about that trip here).  I always love adventuring with my husband!

2017 brought me so much joy in celebrating some of my closest friends become mothers and also watching other friends' families continue to grow. There is something so amazing about seeing the people you love give life and then watch their little kiddos blossom. It has made my heart so full. 

On that subject, my niece Emilia Rae was born this year, too. I still can't believe this little ray of sunshine is in our lives. After experiencing the loss my family has had to endure in regards to miscarriage, Emilia is a little rainbow for us all. I can't describe how I feel when I see my mom and dad finally holding a grandchild. Every time I visit, she has learned something new and added a vibrant dimension to her personality. I love her little facial expressions and the way she snuggles into my neck when I'm holding her. The sweetest giggle I've ever heard; I wish I could bottle it and open it when I'm feeling sad because it gives me so much joy. My sister and brother-in-law are the most amazing parents and I feel so blessed to be Emilia's Godmother. If there had been nothing else good in this year, Emilia's entrance Earthside would have been enough. 

Two big bucket list items were crossed off my list this year. I completed a triathlon and got my runDisney Coast to Coast medal (You can read about the TRI here, Wine & Dine Half here, and Star Wars Half here). These were goals I've had for a long time and I'm so proud to have them under my belt now. Instead of making excuses for why I couldn't get them done this year - I just signed up and did it. Sometimes, there is no RIGHT time to do something. I am telling you - if you have something on your goal list or bucket list JUST GET IT DONE. Sign up. Pay the fees. Book the travel. Spend the money. You'll regret it if you don't. If I hadn't done Coast to Coast this year, I may have NEVER had a chance to again as right now all California races are cancelled for 2018. So again I say - stop making excuses and instead, make your goals and dreams a reality. 

2017 was also packed with a few amazing Disney trips! I absolutely love sharing the magic of Disney with my friends. Whether 1 day, a short weekend. or a full week, each trip was special, memorable, and filled with laughter, magic, churros, and dole whip.  

Also, I turned 30. 

Which has been pretty cool so far. 

2017 wasn't all sunshine and giggles of course. While there have been amazing hights, no one is perfect. I've been pretty down on myself for a bunch of reasons - the few pounds I've gained that I can't seem to shake, my lack of motivation for running, not being exactly where I want to be in regards to financials, career, etc. But I guess if everything was perfect there would be nothing to keep working for, right?

That is why my goal for 2018 is a pretty simple one. I'd like to live more intentionally. Instead of buying things to accumulate stuff, I want to rid my home of clutter and keep only the things that make me happy when I see them. I want to spend less time on things that aren't making me happy and use my energy for those that bring joy. Instead of continuing on a path because it is the 'right' thing to do, I want to stray to a new path and find the things that bring me fulfillment. I don't want to live comfortably because it enables me to be mediocre - I want to reach outside my boundaries and put one foot in front of the other towards the things I want most in life no matter how much they scare me. 

I've slowly been transitioning to be a more intentional person and I want to maintain that focus throughout the year. Of course, I know that no plan is foolproof, so I'm ready for any challenges that come my way with an open heart and an open mind. 

Here is to everyone looking forward to the new year with an open heart. May you leave your doubt behind and move intentionally into 2018.