Happy First Friday of 2017!

     In Hawaii, the first Friday of the month is called "First Friday".  When you are done with your work or "pau hana" (pronounced "pow ha na"), you get together with your friends and family to celebrate this day.  So. . . Happy First Friday of January 2017!
     I have been reading about all the goals and New Year's Resolutions that people are making for this beginning of 2017.  As I reflect on the ones I made last year, which were to continue to regain my movement and strength with my left shoulder after my surgery in October 2014, and to make a decision about if I felt I would be able to return to the special education elementary classroom.  I did complete those resolutions, so I feel good about that!  I made the choice to stay available for my family in helping to care for my mom.  I am so glad and honored to have been able to be a part of her life during this past year, before she went to be with God and Jesus in Heaven a month ago.
     As I think about the resolutions I am making for 2017, I am going to make on a short term goal, and the other a long term goal.  My short term goal is to spend these next few months decluttering/getting better organized.  I will be filing, craigslist ads and giving away/throwing away items I don't need or haven't used in a while.  My long term goal or resolution is to get in better shape overall.  I have always been very active, but since having this shoulder surgery, it has really slowed me down in what I activities I am used to doing.  I want to increase my walking, do a cardio activity, and do some yoga and core strengthening exercises daily and weekly.  I am a firm believer when you are doing something that is exercise or a physical labor activity, it helps to get the chemicals in you brain and body balanced - besides working on your muscles and endurance!
     I also am making a resolution to eat more fruits and vegetables, instead of the quick snack of chips or cookies, and to drink more water.  I am not a "soda drinker", but I do love coffee!  I usually drink it black, so not worried about the calories.  I tend to reach for that though, instead of water.  I need to be more mindful, and a better example for my grandsons.
      These are just some of the things I have been thinking about this week . . . hope this helps you to make some goals to work on this new year!  Have a great weekend!