Great Adventures in 2009

Okay, I've had lots of deep, spiritual thoughts I've been wanting to share, but my brain can't seem to keep or organize thoughts long enough to get them here, so maybe I'll share those later. I thought I would just give a little update about what is new in the Fidler household in 2009.

Unfortunately, there aren't as many new things as I would like! This is the first year in a long time that I remember actually setting resolutions. The last few years have been so crazy that usually my goal for the year is to just survive! This year I had definite plans about child raising, weight loss, and some other random things. But, honestly my first few weeks of 2009 just didn't start out the way I planned. (Haven't I addressed the issue of when I try to plan before?) Anyway, I started out the new year with a court appearance (that is a whole other blog), a bladder infection, sick kids, and 10 pounds I gained over the holidays. Yes, you heard me right. 10 pounds. For the life of me I cannot understand how it takes 2 months to lose 10 pounds and 2 weeks to gain it back!! So, I was faced with the reality that as good as my intentions for new things are, my ability to achieve them is still a bit lacking.

So, I've adapted my resolutions. I know that sounds like I've decided to abandon them right? I haven't. I've just decided to approach them a little differently. Josh has claimed Isaiah 43 for our church this year and I am claiming it for myself. Isaiah 43:18 says, "Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing." I love that! Don't you? In this chapter God goes on and on about the things He will do for His people, the things only He can do. So, I've decided this year I want to forget the former things and get ready for the new! The things only God can do. I think losing weight and keeping my house organized seem like the most impossible tasks known to mankind. But God said, "I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:19 So, I've decided not only can I keep my resolutions with God's help, I'm going to expect more. Weight loss and clean floors will pale in comparison with the changes that I'm expecting God to make in my heart and mind. He can do that!

So, we're only a few weeks in. They have not been stellar weeks that I would like on file for future generations to observe. I started homeschooling Sarah last week. That was a very difficult and much prayed about decision for us. I cannot tell you how many times I have said even just a few months ago that I could never homeschool my children. Have I ever told you what happens when I tell God the things I will not do? I have also in years past said that I would never work with youth or live in the parking lot of a church. Ha. Enough said. While getting sick and having sick kids was not part of my lesson plan for the first two weeks, I am already seeing the lessons I am being taught through this process. I'm sure you will be hearing a lot about our homeschooling adventures in future blogs to come!

Right now I am very excited about some upcoming events in our family. My sister Jenny who has been living in Alaska for the last 3 years will find out by the end of this week where they will be moving in June. I am sooo excited because anywhere will be closer than Alaska! I got so excited in the store the other night because I found a present I wanted to get my nephew for his birthday and I realized that I might actually get to give it to him and not have to mail it!

We are also looking forward to gaining a new family member as Josh's sister Leah just got engaged this past weekend. We will get to meet Brad, her fiance, next week and are really looking forward to that visit. And can I just say that nothing provides weight loss motivation for me like the thought of a bridesmaid dress! :) We are so excited for them.

In this last week of sickness and homeschooling, I also decided that I would organize my 10 year class reunion for my high school. What kind of meds was I taking anyway? :) Just kidding. While I have felt a little overwhelmed by this task I am also really enjoying reconnecting with old friends and looking forward to having a reason to dress up!

There are definitely so many things to be excited about and look forward to this year. While I am a little late, I want to wish all of you the very best in 2009 and offer some encouragement as we keep pressing on!!