Do you recall the insanely popular "25 Things About Me" that went around Facebook earlier this year? well, I thought I'd post what I wrote in January 2009 as a way to get myself back into blogging. After all, I need to get back in the groove - there are so many things that I have to say and share about going back to work, growing children and giving up control...
1/28/09
1. I am blessed beyond all that I can ask or imagine, in every aspect of my life. I don’t deserve any of it, but God is awesome and I am thankful for His mercy and grace.
2. I am truly an introvert, which impacts how I process, react and respond to many things in life.
3. One of my favorite Bible verses is Proverbs 3:5,6…”Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” It was the first that I memorized, and keeps me on task.
4. I married an amazing man. He inspires me to be a better person and he’s not afraid to let me know how much he loves me. I could not ask for a better father for our daughters.
5. I am silly and fun. I sing crazy songs, make up funny dances and laugh and play with my girls all the time.
6. I pay attention to details and I am a critical thinker…sometimes more than necessary.
7. I grew up as an only child. It made me stronger, and it, too, affects how I process, react and respond to many things in life.
8. My close friends became my siblings and to this day I don’t know what I’d do without them.
9. Window shopping clears my mind and relaxes me…really, it does.
10. I was angry and hurt when my job of 16 years was eliminated, but in time I came to realize that it was a blessing.
11. I am now even more comfortable and confident with who I am, and not who the job dictated that I be.
12. I like good chocolate, good wine and insightful conversations.
13. The most special gift that I ever received is my grandmother’s piano. She always told me that it would be mine one day. I miss her very much.
14. I had the opportunity to travel to Oberammergau, Germany in 2000 to see the Passion Play. Words cannot describe this experience.
15. I am excited about starting a new job soon – new industry, new opportunity, new challenges, new successes.
16. My children bring such joy to my life. Each day is like a breath of fresh air and a reminder of what’s really important.
17. Treating others with respect, fairness and honesty are qualities that I admire.
18. I don’t like arrogance, but I realize that people can be misunderstood due to the image that they unknowingly or knowingly project.
19. My Mom and Dad are each rock solid in their own way. They taught me so much, and I am still learning.
20. Compiling 25 things is too much…I did good to get this far!!!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
I was asked to speak to women's Bible study group about important steps to take in this difficult financial economy. It seems like forever since I was involved in finances and the like (10 months is forever when I look at all of the adventure that I've experienced at home with my daughter since then). However, I was able to put my career hat back on, and come up with some thoughts for the group. My premise is that thee is a lot of information out there...they just need to think through their needs and use the resources that are available.
Five Components of Calm
Keeping it Together in Today’s Economy
Five Components of Calm
-Put it in Perspective
- Plan
- Prioritize
- Partner
- Pay Attention
1. Put it in Perspective
- Remember who is really in control
- The economy is cyclical
2. Prioritize
- Refocus your financial priorities
- Essential vs. discretionary expenses
- What needs to be done now vs. what can be done later vs. what really doesn’t need to be done at all
- Refocus your life priorities - career vs. education, relocation vs. stay in the area
- Seek contentment
3. Plan your spending (and saving)
- Budget, Budget, Budget!
- Realistic look at your “true” expenses including gifts, copayments, babysitters, newspapers, etc.
- Anticipate potential financial changes
- Adjust accordingly – the little things really do make a difference
- Keep some fun
4. Partner
- Collaborate with subject matter experts – banker, tax professional, financial planner, etc.
- Attend seminars and events
- Have a source of accountability – friend, support group, etc.
5. Pay Attention – Educate Yourself
- Read appropriate articles/websites
- Maintain your financial documents/information
- Watch the news (in moderation)
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
“Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts” Proverbs 24:3-4 (TLB)
Great Resources:
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
