As the month of January enters the last week, it is probably a good time to publish my goals for 2019. Goals, or intentions, feel more manageable than resolutions.

There are seven areas where I hope to grow:

1. Create – This is my word for 2019 and my goal is to create in a variety of arenas on a regular basis. Watercolor is a method of painting that has previously frustrated me, but new techniques have contributed to it becoming a type of spiritual discipline that is connecting me with the creator. In addition, I am experimenting with fiber art, beads, and photography. I will share my creations on the blog.
2. Read – As an avid reader, I often read to escape the stresses and worries of the world. This year I intend to invest additional time reading for enrichment. The areas of focus include racial issues, immigration, and spiritual growth. Reviews of the material will be included here.
3. Strength – At fifty-five it is vital for me to maintain my mobility and to increase the flexibility and strength of my muscles. The past two years my activity has focused primarily on walking several miles 3-5 times a week. Weights and increased cardio are the targets this year.
4. Hospitality – Since leaving the workforce in 2011, my circle of community has decreased. My husband gets a full dose of people five days a week at his work and is often content for us to hibernate during the evenings and weekends. This leads to me isolating and feeling lonely. I proposed that we invite a variety of friends to dinner at our home or to join us for dinner throughout the year to balance our needs for community. January has started off strong with renewing old friendships and connecting with some of his coworkers.
5. New restaurants – One of our favorite past times is exploring restaurants. Oklahoma City possesses a variety of local eateries and unique chains and more are coming to the area each month. In January we tried three new restaurants that will be added to our ongoing list.
6. Travel – After spending years taking family trips to visit our parents, we are excited to have the flexibility to explore more locations. In the last ten years we have traveled to Turks and Caicos, New York City, Boston, Florida, the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, Nashville, Memphis, and California. In 2019, our goal is to travel more and have adventures in new locations.
7. Grandparenting – With the impending arrival of our first grandchild, I have set the goal of being present in whatever capacity is available for our granddaughter and her parents. The love I already feel for this little human is uncontainable.