let me take you to Nevis

Once a year, we get the opportunity to travel to locations that we'd never otherwise be able to explore. Kevin works his tail off to earn these trips each year. He would do it without the trip incentive as he is just that kind of guy. He puts the c in commitment, friends...in all aspects of his life. I have to say that I am not one to emote, but I am rather fond of my fellow.

We went by ourselves this year and enjoyed the chance to have some couple time. Minus not having our luggage until the last 24 hours of the trip, it went without a hitch. We snorkeled, swam with a sea turtle, rode wave runners through the channel to St. Kitts, and slept in like there was no tomorrow.

(Hello, Mr. Monkey)

While we could have griped and focused on our luggage-less selves, we chose to make the best of it and ride it out with a sense of humor like we do with all bumps, big or small, in our lives.

However, no matter how sparkling blue the ocean was, or how over indulged we were with sleep and delicious food, nothing beats being at home with my guys. 

Home.

It doesn't get any better.

Much love,

Katie

a new kind of resolution

As the new year begins, my Facebook feed is flooded with New Year's resolutions. I'm not knocking the idea of self improvement, but I feel like there must be another way; more imperatively, a better way to approach the new year.

Resolutions by nature are self focused.

Skinnier.

Richer.

Health conscious.

I have to admit that I've never been one to set resolutions. It just isn't how I'm programmed. Perhaps it is that ever lingering pessimistic self that always battles to take down the wall of optimism I guard myself with. If I can't set and obtain certain goals the other 364 days of the year, then I better not try to set them every January 1st.

I propose that our ever disconnected society changes self focused resolutions to others focused resolutions.

It doesn't mean that we need to build a well in Africa. It can be simple acts of kindness that we make daily and a more conscious decision to contribute to the well-being of others throughout each day.

For me, it starts at home. I know what I can do at home to improve the lives of my husband and children.

Patience.

I lack it and theses guys need it.

Therefore, I will do what is necessary to bite my tongue, take deep breaths, and walk away when I'd otherwise raise my voice and make demands. 

The truth can be ugly, but it is nevertheless the truth. What's the point, though, of me writing such a post without you knowing that I struggle, too. And even though I can calmly and patiently teach 20 something 1st graders all day, that there are days when I come home and give the worst part of myself to my own kids.

I've given some thought to my list for the year and it seems easy in theory, but I know it will be challenging in reality: patience, reach out to others who are hurting via the phone (gasp!), and making our care and share bags all year long.

I may not loose my muffin top and master vegan cooking, but I going to give this new approach a go.

What about you? Want to join me?

Happy New Year, Friends!

Much love,
Katie