So the world didn't end in 2012...

This may come as a surprise to a few of you, but the world didn't end in 2012. Which means that I once again have an opportunity to evaluate my 2012 happenings and highlight a few of the lessons I learned. Drumroll please.

Lessons Learned in 2012

(in no particular order)

1. I enjoy running and exercising.  This coming from a person who is a slow runner. But I enjoy the benefits of running—feeling healthier, happier, and better about myself. I got some new running shoes and some coworker support to keep me going. As a I looked at all the progress I had made this year (two 5Ks and a 10K), I realized that I needed to step it up. So I got a gym membership, and I'm excited to stick to my plan. I know that if I can get into routine, it will be easy for me to keep. 

2. Finding balance in life means sacrifice. I have a lot of interests, and I wish I could do them all, but this year I set aside some of my interests (like working on my novel) to other more important things, like my health (exercise equals time) or Church-related activities.  Along the way, I discovered I can have balance in my life that makes me happy. And if I missed out on something, it was okay. I find that being content with what I have makes me feel better and allows me to better cope with the nasty difficulties of life.

3. Working overtime causes stress. I worked a lot overtime this year at work. CFI made a lot of (good) changes and it really stretched me, but things are looking up, and I feel like this year I'll be more productive without working so much overtime. 

4. Challenges in life can either make or break me. With the help of the Savior, I can choose how challenges affect me. Some challenges seemed so overwhelming, but I have tried to trust in the Savior and his Atonement this year to help me overcome my challenges. And you know what? When I trusted, things seemed to work out. And when I doubted, they seemed to go wrong. I can choose whether a challenge will break me. But with the Lord's help, I know I have someone who will be there for me. I can view challenges as stepping stones that will help me become the person God wants me to become. I've changed from saying "Why me?" to "How can this help me?" That question has helped me so much this year.

5. Joining a dinner group was a smart decision. I joined a dinner group this year. We meet four times a week, and I cook for the whole group once every three weeks.  I know for some that dinner group is, well, about having dinner without doing much work. But for me, it helps me fill my "emotional tank." I get to spend time with friends, talk about my day, and joke around, and above all feel appreciated and loved. Dinner group has been one of my greatest blessings this year. I'm so grateful to be a part of it.

6. I am never going to catch up with my to-read list. And I'm okay with this fact. I have far too many books to read, and there are far too many good books out there. Because I need balance in my life (see #2), some things take priority over my books. But I shouldn't stress about not reading. I've learned to enjoy the time when I do read for fun. And I've read some fantastic books this year (although I stopped blogging about them . . . sorry, got a little busy (see #3)). 

7. Family is family, and you should love them even when they bug the heck out of you. I think this lesson may be repeated again next year. It's a good reminder, though.

I think there were a lot more ups than downs in 2012. I moved into Deerhaven, have made some great friends, and overall am doing well. Let's hope 2013 can be just as great.

Evaluation of 2012 Goals:

1. Write in my journal every day. I did really well with this goal until I moved in August. Then it became spotty. But I did write a few times in those last months. I find that writing in my journal helps me to reflect.
2. Run a 5K in 35 minutes. Ha! This was ambitious. I think my fastest time was 45 minutes.
3. Lose 30 pounds. I kinda took the summer off and then started to be more consistent in September. The good news is I haven't gained anything. The bad news is I haven't lost anything. It's a wash.

2013 Goals:

1. Finish editing my novel and get it published. 

2. Have a 30-minute scripture study session weekly.

3. Lose 15 pounds in 4 months.