New Year New Season
As I sit at my desk looking out the window, it is a beautiful sunny day. I know if I were to step outside the door it would be freezing cold. I also know that it is almost the end of January! Can you believe it, the end of January? This year has started out with a bang and has not stopped. There is so much going on in this world. There is a part of me that would like to start the year over since it is JUST the end of January. But it is not possible.
Even though the year has started off a little off, we can try to look forward to a better day. Each day gives us an opportunity to start again or keep going. Each day is a new beginning in a way. The sun comes up and the day starts. This gives us a chance to make a choice. We, I say we but I really mean me, can continue to make the same choices or I can change the choices I make.
That is when I came to the realization I wanted to look at my year differently. I wanted to look at my year with intention. I wanted to rise every morning with the intent to live each day to the fullness that God has given me. That is hard. I am not going to lie. It has been hard these past 20-plus days to try and live my life, I guess you might say, better. I am trying to get up each morning and live the life God intended for me.
That is where this journal comes into play. Last year, through December I came to realize to live an intentional life I need to sit down and playfully decide what that life will look like. What are the changes I need to make? What aspects of my life in 2024 can I keep and what aspects do I want to change? What goals do I want to set? What stuff do I want to get rid of?
These questions kept rattling around in my head until I sat down and put them into a journal, the New Year New Season journal. It was something I knew I could start on January 1st or I could start on March 15th. It is a journal I can keep near me and revisit, not just as a reference but as a work in process. The truth is we never are finished with our journey. Each day is a new day in our journey of life. With this journal, it has become my guide in that journey. And who doesn’t need a guide? I know I do.
“Three Rules of Work: Out of clutter find simplicity. From discord find harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
When I started the year, I looked around my house and realized that part of the feeling I have of being overwhelmed is coming from the clutter that surrounds me. I knew that for me to find a level of peace in our home and in my life, I would need to tame the clutter beast. I knew I needed to begin there. I listed off the chores I needed to get done and catch up on. I made a list of items that I needed to get rid of. Next, I went through my kitchen deciding what healthy food we need and what processed food I can get rid that is clogging both our minds and bodies.
This is still in process. If you were to come into my house you would see Christmas decorations still up, and the house a bit dirty. My life working full time can be a bit chaotic. The time to get all the tasks done is sometimes hard to find. Like I keep saying over and over, it is a work in process.
““Time is what we want most, but what we use worst.””
There are days I manage my time well and there are days it doesn’t go so well. I knew starting out this year, that if I was going to move forward whether it was an inch or a mile, I needed to get my time and how I used my time under control. I needed to get a realistic view on our current schedule, what we wanted to add to our schedule, and what we needed to take out of our schedule to help us manage our time better.
Not knowing what you are going to be doing overtime means you will lose track of your time. Before you know it, it is the end of the day and you feel like you have not accomplished a thing. Yes, it does take time to write down what you have planned for the day, what you want to accomplish in your day, and what your goals are. It is time well spent.
“The future goal is the things that produces character in the present.”
Goals are worth having. But unset goals, or unwritten goals gets you nowhere. I have learned this last year that it is time to write down my goals. No matter what that goal is, how big or small, a bit of work each day will get me closer to that goal.
Goals are worthwhile work. That is why I put them on paper where I can reflect upon my goals, both from last year and for the coming year. If I want to conquer the new mountains that God has for me, than I need to set write those mountains down.
““The work of a mother is hard, too often unheralded work. Please know that it is worth it then, now, and forever.””
As women, we wear so many hats: wives, mothers, daughters, friends, caretakers. To meet the needs of those around us, we also need to take care of ourselves. Balancing work, home, and family can be exhausting, but when we carve out time for each area intentionally, we can create a more peaceful, purpose-filled life.
For me, that has meant re-evaluating how we manage our home, spend our time, and work toward our family goals. By doing this, we can make time to truly enjoy one another and work together as a team.
Intentional Choices:
This year, I’m choosing intention. I want to lean into my faith, mark my path, and live each day with purpose. By year’s end, I want to look back knowing I made intentional choices for my home, time, family, and more.
I’d love for you to join me on this journey. I’ll be sharing more here and on my podcast about living intentionally. Let’s encourage one another along the way!
You can also download a free version of my New Year, New Season journal through the link below. If you’d like the extended version, it’s available on my Etsy shop, Sew Abundant Shop.
I would love to hear your thoughts on your new year. Share with what goals you have set and what changes you are hoping to make.
For now, enjoy that cup of coffee and I will see you next time!
Planning for Christmas
Finding Joy Beyond the Holiday Hustle
Do you ever feel like you're falling behind during the holidays? I know I do. Every December, it feels like an inner perfectionist monster emerges, pushing me to do it all. I want the decorations to be picture-perfect, every corner of the house filled with Christmas cheer. I dream of baking every kind of cookie imaginable, covering the kitchen in sprinkles and holiday aromas. And the presents? Oh, they simply must be wrapped in a way that turns heads and inspires awe!
Then there are all the holiday events—the parades, light displays, and festive gatherings. It’s as if every invitation whispers, You can’t miss this, it’s part of the magic! The list of to-dos piles up so high that I often end up overwhelmed, wondering how on earth I’ll manage to do it all.
But here’s the truth: These expectations aren’t realistic. The hustle and bustle that surrounds us during the holidays can steal our joy if we let it. The healthier choice—the better choice—is to slow down, take a breath, and let go of what doesn’t truly matter.
When I think about it, I know I’m not the only one feeling this way. Many of us are caught in the same cycle, trying to live up to impossible standards. But the truth is, none of us need that kind of pressure.
The most important moments of the holidays aren’t about flawless decorations, perfect cookies, or jaw-dropping gift wrap. They’re about spending time with loved ones and savoring the joy of the season. When we focus on what truly matters—our family, our faith, and the joy of being together—our lives take on a rhythm of peace. It’s a rhythm that looks less like the chaotic hustle of the world and more like a life we actually want to live.
This year, as I planned for Christmas, I decided to make joy a priority in our home. I wanted to embrace small, quiet moments—those cozy evenings when the world slows down, and I can simply sit back and savor the season. I realized I didn’t want the media’s version of a perfect Christmas to dictate how I celebrate.
Micheal, my rock, has always had this wonderful way of staying calm and grounded. For him, the hustle and pressure don’t even register—he just wants to enjoy the moment. This year, I wanted to follow his example.
And you know what? I’ve done it. I’ve embraced a slower, more joyful Christmas. I’ve found a sense of peace that comes from letting go of expectations and focusing on what matters. Sitting in my office now, I glance over at the Christmas tree. It’s not perfect—far from it. It’s small, humble, and decorated simply. But every time I see it, it reminds me of the joy this season is all about.
A Season of Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love
Christmas is so much more than a to-do list or a flurry of activity. It’s a season of hope, joy, peace, and love. When I stopped worrying about perfection—about impressing others or meeting impossible standards—I found I could embrace the true gifts of the season.
God offers us these gifts daily, if we’re willing to receive them. Hope that shines even in uncertainty. Joy that fills our hearts in the simplest of moments. Peace that calms the chaos around us. Love that reminds us we’re never alone.
I want to encourage you to embrace those gifts this season. Let go of the hustle. Trust that what you’ve planned, what you’ve prepared, is enough. You don’t need the perfect home, eye-catching gifts, or a feast worthy of a magazine spread. All you need is the true spirit of Christmas: Christ.
Resources to Help You Slow Down
To help ease your mind during the holidays, I’ve created a free PDF guide that I hope will bring you peace and encouragement.
If you’re looking for something more, I’ve also put together a full Christmas Planner available in my Etsy store. This planner is designed to help you stay organized while keeping your focus on what truly matters—making space for joy, peace, and love this season.
Start your day out right!
IF you are just looking for the simple version of my Morning Start and Evening End. The link is at the end of this article. OR you can click here.
Starting my day is one of the hardest things for me to do. I have my alarm set for 5:30 am and every time it goes off I hit the snooze and take another 10 minutes sleep. I wish I could say that I only do this once or twice, but in reality I do this at least 3 times. I have even set an alarm with my Alexa, and I still tell it to snooze when the alarm goes off at 6 am. I am terrible. Mornings are the worst for me.
What makes it even harder is trying to get all the chores done before I leave for work. Prior to getting a full time job I knew I had time, if I did not get up soon enough it was not a big deal. I could sleep until 7 am and I would still have time! Not any more.
When I started working full time I knew I needed to be ready and out the door a lot earlier than before. And when I say a lot earlier, I mean A LOT earlier! The unfortunate part it has been a challenge to find a way to get the chores done, be ready for work, and get to work on time. It truly has been a challenge.
After 3 months I figured it was time to do some research and find ways to improve my morning routine. I started reading articles on what to do, how to plan, and ways to improve my mornings. I found out there is more to just getting up early and getting stuff done. You need to plan, both your morning, your evening, your day basically. For you to have a better morning, you need to have a better night. I started planning
I found out that if I wanted to my mornings to improve I need to find a plan for my whole day. I needed to figure out what I am going to be doing the next day before the next day came.
Here are the steps I found out worked well.
Plan the night before: When I planned out my day the night before it gave me the opportunity to see what needed to be done. It allowed me to figure out what needed to be done, and what I wanted to get done. With that list complete I would know how much time I needed to complete my tasks.
Morning Start List: I created a list of chores that I wanted to accomplish each morning before I left for work. I posted that list on my refrigerator where I could see it as a reminder of what I wanted to get done before I headed out the door. It was also important that I put how much time each chore would take. Now I know this sounds a bit controlling, but knowing how long my chores all together will take helps me to know what time to get up in the morning. Or if it is realistic of me to accomplish the tasks I want to get done.
Evening End List: I also created a list of chores that I wanted to accomplish each evening. I also posted this list on my refrigerator where I could see it as a reminder of what I wanted to get done before I go to bed. Just as important as it is to know how much time it takes to get ready in the morning, I also need to know how much time it takes me to get ready for bed.
And what I put on my list is just as important.
Chores to help me be a better me: I know there people that don’t necessarily agree with the “me” time, but taking care of yourself is important. Taking the time to exercise, read, journal, and clean yourself help takes care of your body and your mind. And when you take care of your body and your mind you are able to take better care of your family and home.
Chore to help me plan: It is important to know what your plan is for tomorrow just as it important to know what your plan is for today. Taking 10 minutes in the evening to write down the chores that I want to accomplish the next day helps to know where my day is headed and to know how much needs to be done for that day. If there are errands to run or if there is something out of the ordinary that I need to accomplish.
Chore to help me take better care of home: Taking care of a home is a big responsibility there are many things that need to be taken care of whether on a daily, weekly, or monthly bases. There is almost always something that needs to be done. By having a plan, a list of tasks to be done on a daily, weekly, or monthly bases, taking care of a home is easier.
I know this might seem like a lot but it is not. In fact, I know this ideas helps so much I want to help you get started. Here is my simple PDF that I have used with both my Morning Start list, and my Evening End list. Or you can take a piece of paper and start with your own list. Think of the things/tasks that you would like to do each day before you go to work, and then the things/tasks you would like to do each day before you go to bed. Put that list somewhere you can see it. Then make a pack with yourself that you are going to do those tasks for the next 30 days. You will see a difference. I did!
The Simple Joys of a Bucket List
Embrace the Season: Creating a Fall Bucket List to Cherish the Simple Joys
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, there’s a certain magic in the Fall season that beckons us to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of life. This year, I’ve decided to channel that energy into creating a Fall bucket list—a collection of activities and experiences that I want to enjoy before the season slips away. You might be wondering why I’d create yet another list when life already seems full of them. The reason is simple: having something to look forward to helps us live more intentionally.
Why a Fall Bucket List?
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to let time slip by without fully enjoying the moments that make each season special. A Fall bucket list serves as a gentle reminder to pause and engage with the world around us. It’s about more than just checking off activities; it’s about creating memories, enjoying traditions, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Creating this list isn’t just about me—it’s about my family too. Part of living a simple and fulfilling life is making time for the things that bring us joy. By writing down the activities we want to do, we’re more likely to make them happen. It’s also a wonderful way to bring everyone together. As a family, we can share ideas, plan our weekends, and look forward to the adventures we’ll have together.
Planning Our Fall Adventures
Michael and I have already started brainstorming, and we’ve got a few events that we’re excited to include on our Fall bucket list. One of the highlights for us is always the local Oktoberfest.
For the past two years, Michael and I have made it a tradition to attend the Oktoberfest in our area. It’s become one of those special events that we look forward to all year. The festival is a delightful escape from our everyday routines. The lively music fills the air with a sense of celebration, and the aroma of delicious food beckons us from every corner. Michael, of course, enjoys sampling the variety of beers, while I indulge in some soda or a sweet cider. The festive atmosphere, combined with the crisp Fall air, makes it an experience we cherish.
But Oktoberfest is just the beginning. This year, I’m excited to add a trip to our local drive-in theater to the list. Drive-ins have a nostalgic charm that’s hard to resist, and we’re fortunate to have one close by. There’s something magical about watching a movie under the stars, bundled up in cozy blankets, with a big tub of popcorn in hand. It’s a simple, yet unforgettable way to spend an evening. Just last weekend, they screened The Goonies—one of my all-time favorite movies. It’s little moments like these that make Fall so special.
The Joy of Simplicity
As I put together our Fall bucket list, I’m reminded of the beauty in simplicity. Life doesn’t have to be filled with grand adventures or elaborate plans to be fulfilling. Sometimes, the most meaningful experiences are the ones that are closest to home—like a walk through the woods to admire the changing leaves, baking a batch of pumpkin spice cookies, or spending a quiet afternoon reading a good book by the fire.
This season, I encourage you to embrace the simplicity of Fall. Take a moment to think about the things that bring you joy and write them down. It could be as simple as carving pumpkins, making homemade apple cider, or having a cozy movie night. By planning these activities, you’re more likely to make time for them, and in doing so, create memories that will last long after the season has passed.
Creating Your Own Fall Bucket List
I’ve made a printable version of my Fall bucket list, which you’re welcome to use as inspiration for your own. You can find the link below. Whether you use mine or create your own, the important thing is to take the time to enjoy this wonderful season.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Visit a pumpkin patch and pick out the perfect pumpkin
Take a scenic drive to admire the Fall foliage
Host a cozy bonfire and roast marshmallows
Make homemade applesauce or apple pie
Go on a hayride or visit a corn maze
Spend an afternoon crafting Fall decorations
Try a new soup or stew recipe for a warm, hearty meal
Plan a day trip to a nearby town or festival
Have a picnic in the park with a thermos of hot cocoa
Attend a local farmer’s market and pick up seasonal produce
Remember, the goal isn’t to pack your schedule with activities but to choose a few meaningful ones that bring you joy. By writing them down and planning when to do them, you’re giving yourself something to look forward to, and creating the space to savor these simple pleasures.
Making Memories
At the end of the day, what we’ll remember most about this season are the memories we create. Whether it’s laughing with loved ones at Oktoberfest, enjoying a cozy movie night at the drive-in, or simply taking a walk in the crisp Fall air, these moments are what make life rich and fulfilling.
So this Fall, take the time to slow down, plan some fun activities, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re doing it with family, friends, or even by yourself, a Fall bucket list is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and all the joy it brings.