My Three Goals for December | Rafael Painter ‘Soul of Love’ Diary – Part 2

Debbie: White Leotard Bodysuit : White Lace Swim Cover Up | Turquoise Necklace (Vintage, My Own) Similar | Albert: TJ’s Maxx, Similar – Men’s White Linen Shirt | Men’s Khaki Shorts | Emi & Chloe: White Leotard | White Swim Cover Up |  Elijah: Boy’s White Button Down Shirt | Boy’s Chino Shorts

Last month I introduced you to the amazing work of Rafael Painter in a blog post titled Giving Thanks.  He has an amazing ability to capture the spirit of individual families, children, couples, pet owners — you name it!  When I view our family photos my heart is full of love for each member of my family.

My heart aches just a little knowing that there is only one more month in 2016 to be the best wife, mother and friend to my husband and children.  My children are growing up way too fast!  Yes, you mommies with young kids time really does fly!

As I reflect upon this last month my heart is full of incredible memories.  Memories that are filled with laughter, memories of growing pains with each of my children and myself, memories of tears both happy and sad, memories of our fun family vacations and mini-trips.  Memories of doctor, dentist, and orthodontic appointments.  Memories of birthdays, anniversaries, milestones and school assemblies!  SO MANY MEMORIES!  I can’t list them all…..

Now, with tomorrow being December 1st which marks the first day of the last month of the year I want to channel my efforts, energy and passion to what truly matters in my life and enjoy every minute despite the craziness the holidays can bring.  Okay, I am going to be quite real with you and share my innermost thoughts and feelings as I manage life as a wife, mother, blogger, and business entrepreneur.

My Three Goals for December 

GOAL 1: Make sure to nourish myself.  I need to take time each day to take care of myself.  It is important to make myself a priority.  Exercising for me is non-negotiable.  I actually cater my schedule around my workout plans. When I make myself a priority, everyone in my family benefits!

That is a good thing! Be gentle with yourself!  Treat yourself well. As women we will give, give, give to others which is a beautiful thing.  However, make sure to include yourself at the top of the list with getting TLC.

GOAL 2:  I need to commit to re-commit to spend more quality time with my family.  This requires me to say no. Can I tell you how hard this is!  I am a recovering ‘people pleaser!’  I tend to over-commit to things because I don’t want to disappoint those I interact with.

But, in the end my family hurts and I hurt too.  My sweet loving husband and my sweet adorable children matter the most and they deserve my 100%!  Over the last year, I have taken out the unnecessary ‘time suckers’ out of my life. This results in a more relaxed happier mom which translates to a happier home life!  It is a win – win!

GOAL 3: Lead with love!  Can I tell you how much stress can wreck havoc in your family life,  personal life and emotional well-being.  When I am stressed out — running myself ragged I am exhausted, cranky, and short-tempered.  When I am in this state I can not lead with love.  I want to create an environment at home where there is peace, comfort, security and warmth.

When I nurture myself emotionally, physically, and spirituality I am able to tap into my divine being and offer compassion, patience, and love to my spouse and children. Learning to continually forgive is important too – this also includes forgiving yourself when you have made mistakes.

So, there you have it My Top Three Goals for December!  Thank you for reading this post and I hope it causes you to reflect and consider what your top three goals for December are.  Please share with me your thoughts!  And, don’t you think my photos from Rafael Painter are magical!?!

My Orange County Friends: I want to share with you a special promotion that Rafael Painter is having for the month of December.  Check out Rafael’s Holiday Gift Specials.  Make sure to contact him as soon as possible as his spots get filled up fast!

Rafael Painter Soul of Love| Holiday Gift Specials

S/H is additional. Travel outside Orange County is additional. Paintings mounted on museum quality preservation board canvas or hardboard is additional. Portraits include two subjects. $100 per each additional subjects.

Thank you Rafael Painter for being a sponsor.  Thank you for supporting brands and companies that I love!