Lofty Goals....2011

So....I said in a previous post I would write more about this later and now is the time. I do have a few goals for this upcoming year and I must say, they are pretty big goals. I figured if I write them in such a "public" place all of you who read them can help me reach them. I also know they may not all be met, but it is worth a try right?

1. My Biggest Goal for 2011-2012 is to run a 1/2 marathon. Brandon and I watched the Scottish Rite marathon in the 1st weekend of December this year. We knew some friends running in it so thought we would check it out. It was so touching to hear why people run this race. I am trying to make a long story short...at the time Brandon and I were giving gifts to each other that did not cost anything for the Holiday Season. Most of you know, Brandon was often treated at Scottish Rite as a child for his feet. That day as we watched this moving experience I decided that was one of my gifts to him. I will run this race in honor of him and this charity he feels so strongly for. We went to Run On today and purchased a new pair of running shoes and running gear. We have both been running (before the ice and snow)and hopefully will be able to continue. I have had some interest from others who would like to join me and I look forward to them joining me and helping support Brandon and I in this! I love you Brandon and hope you realize how important this is for me to do for you.

2. Heading to my 1st Mission Trip...hopefully in October 2011 or May 2012. Brandon and I joined Grace Avenue UMC in the Spring of last year. We have been bystanders in our church and gone sporadically since then. I personally had decided I had not met many people, no one knew me when I entered the doors and was feeling discouraged. I have two small children who are often sick, we enjoy our weekend time as a family and the list could go on. Brandon and I had decided as a family our goal was going to be to attend at least 3 out of the 4 weeks a month. So far, so good. Last week as we were sitting in church, they started speaking about a Mission Trip to the Czech Republic that the church has taken the past 7 years. They go to their sister church there and help recovering addicts and have worked on forming the church's preschool program! Anyone who is close to me knows 1. that I am super intrigued by the disease of addiction (my minor in college) and 2. knows how much I love kids and being in a teaching environment. Brandon looked at me and said that is a trip for you. We will make it happen. I know I cannot make the trip this May 2011. I have missed too much school already, but will help the mission team in any way I can to hopefully prepare for that journey next school year! I cannot imagine the rewards and self fulfillment that come with such an amazing adventure! We may be calling in the troops like Mimi, Aunt Sis and Popi if this adventure occurs. Poor Brandon cannot be left alone for 10 days with our two rascals. We will hit you up for that later;).

3. Relay for Life...Now that I am at a new school we have been asked who would head up our Relay for Life team. My friend, Laura and Cathy did it at Shawnee Trail last year. I told them I would be one of the captains and I did but they did all the work. This year, Laura asked if I would not mind doing it with her. I am excited about this opportunity to speak to the staff, kiddos and make a school team for this wonderful community event. Thank you to all my supporters last year! I always take this time to reflect on the loss of my Grandmother, Christine Galloway, my cousin Carrie/Carolyn Rodriguez and the life/time they shared here on earth. There have of course been other family members in our lives affected by this horrible disease and I will remember them all, friends families included too. Kinley joined me at the walk last year and I look forward to making this an annual event!

4. I also want to continue to love my family to the best of my ability. I will cherish each moment with them and do my best to give them my support, guidance and unconditional love on a daily basis. They mean the world to me and are so special.

LIKE I SAID LOFTY BUT ATTAINABLE!