Last year, I read Gretchen Rubin's The Happiness Project and it really spoke to me. I know that I often put myself last on the priority list. This year, I want to be more intentional about my goals and monthly plans. So I am modifying Rubin's plan to fit my life. To help keep me accountable, I will be posting my goals and progress here on the blog. I've also helped create an in-person group through the parent's group. We are sharing our goals and progress and meeting once a month for a check-in.

For February, I wanted to focus on money. We are wanting to move back to the peninsula or South Bay. And I would like to see to be able to take a family vacation this summer. To do so, we need to reexamine the money situation...

Goals for February:

• Keep frivolous spending to zero -- I am a sucker for the Target One Spot and clearance sections. For February I'm going to try my hardest to not spend extra money.
• Splurge on one big item -- I can't cut out all spending, but I would like to buy one larger thing. I'm thinking Arthur's tattoo.
• Create a budget -- Been overspending a bit. Need to get something established.
• Donate, sell, trash -- We are possibly moving in the next few months (back to the peninsula!!!!) and our house is a mess! I know we need to do a big cleanout. I'm planning on doing one area/room a week.
• (continuation) Commit to fresh flowers and natural room scents
• (continuation) Be aware of judgements
• (continuation) Establish daily and weekly routines

Recap of January:

• Commit to fresh flowers and natural room scents — I splurged and bought flowers for the kitchen. Makes me happy...
• Be aware of judgments —Looking at my progress for January, I'd call this a success. I really held my tongue some days and others I stopped myself from even giving certain thoughts weight. Continuing this for February.
• Establish daily and weekly routines -- Total bust! January was full of sickness and craziness. We never got our routines established and it makes me sad. Trying again for February.

2016 Monthly Focuses:

• January -- Attitude and Mindfulness
• February -- Money
• March -- Marriage
• April -- Work
• May -- Friendship
• June -- Parenthood
• July -- Play
• August -- Knowledge
• September -- Books
• October -- Self-care
• November -- Vitality
• December -- Reflection