Reflection Questions for 2008
1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
I know this may seem materialistic, but winning $1,000 from a Yahoo! survey this summer really helped us financially when I started back to work. I needed things for my classroom and it could not have come at a better time to pay bills and buy my sweet young son some new shoes and clothes. Plus, I have to admit, I love winning--just ask my friends and hubby. They like to make fun of me for my 'winning attitude'.
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Having to go back to work and get back into the groove of things. Leaving my baby girl at home with daddy was very difficult emotionally.
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
Finding comfort in being home with my family. I use to want to be doing something all the time, but this year I truly found the importance and joy of just staying home with my family. Having fun doesn't always require leaving home.
Oh and I really liked it when gas dropped below $1.50 a gallon since I live about an hour from my family and a lot of my friends. This allows me to get to town more often to see everyone and do a little thrift store shopping. Gotta love that!
4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
John being laid off from his job. However, it's been a blessing in disguise.
5. Pick three words to describe 2008.
I know this is a strange combination, but I'd have to say unpredictable, busy and precious.
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2008 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).
He would probably say hectic, busy and gone.
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2008 (again, without asking).
I think his words would be the same for his year--hectic, busy and gone.
8. What were the best books you read this year?
I don't know that I ready any good adult books to speak of, but I've read tons of children's books. :)
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
My spouse, my children, my immediate family and my friends.
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
Going from a stay-at-home mom to a Kindergarten teacher has been my biggest change this year.
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
This year has been full of honesty for me. I've begun to understand that sometimes the only person I can count on is me and even I let myself down from time to time. I still worry about what other people think about me way too much, but I have also gained a good sense of true friendship and what makes someone an asset to my life. I've really started evaluating friendships based on the quality of life that others project spiritually, morally and emotionally.
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
I have prayed much more than ever before in my life. There have been times this year that I truly have seen God at work in many situations. I appreciate that I have a God who is so forgiving and still such an unbelievable miracle worker. I hope to continually grow in my relationship with God and be a reflection of God's love in my family, my work and my life.
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
I lost 30 pounds when I started taking bp medicine this summer.
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
I have found that relationships are ever-changing. I value friendship immensely and I strive to have close relationships with people. I do my best to be there for people, but I also know I need to be better about keeping in touch with some of my friends.
15. What was the most enjoyable area of managing your home?
Decorating with thrift store finds. I love to repurpose things from around my house, too.
16. What was your most challenging area of home management?
Trying to keep all the dishes washed without a dishwasher.
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
It might be a toss up between searching online for good coupon deals and washing dishes. Although both are important for various reasons, they have both wasted a lot of my quality time with family.
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Spending time with my children. I know I need to be better about this, but I really enjoy just watching my kids be kids and knowing that it's okay to let things go to be with them.
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
The word 'no' is actually in my vocabulary and it's not just used for John. Woo hoo! Such a little word with such a powerful punch!
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2008 for you.
I can't think of something original, but I continue to find this saying from good ol' Abe Lincoln to be a huge comfort in my life: 'The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.' I truly think this is how I've lived this past year.
Now here's to 2009! May it be full of wonderful blessings for us all!
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