“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.  Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.Galatians 5:1

By: Jennifer Mullen

It has been six months now since I wrote Permission to be Imperfect. In that post, I talked about my fear of failure holding me back from making needed change, and I outlined my New Year’s Resolutions. In effort of being completely real with my readers, I am conducting a check-up.

Jennifer’s Resolution Check-Up

1. Healthier Habbits in Diet and Exercise: With the use of the calorie counting app, MyFitnessPal , I have lost 32 pounds since January 2nd. See below for before/after picture courtesy of Kim Ginn of Sweet Portrayal. For extra motivation, I entered a weight loss contest and won! I got a free family photo session from Sweet Portrayal. It was the best photography experience ever! Just look at her work. (Also below) I have not gotten into a regular workout routine, but I do lift a 29 lb baby multiple times a day so I am good on the strength training! That is something to pursue before the new year. Over all my husband and I are learning to eat like healthy adults should. We have lost a combined total of 52 lbs, and our couch thanks us!
   

   www.sweetportrayal.com

2. Journaling: I have bought journal for each of my children…and written in them once. I modified Gretchen’s Mother’s Day Tradition and made it my own. That was the only time I journaled. Once is better than none!
3. Making Time for Myself: I have been more intentional in this. I do not have anything routine, but I am learning to recognize when I am close to the end of my rope and being proactive before I snap…doesn’t always happen.
4. Realize that True Perfection Comes from Christ: I have been more lenient on myself. I have been letting things go that I would normally drive myself mad by seeking perfection. Still need perspective from Christ that when God calls me to be perfect that he is asking me to be something that I cannot be without Him. Life long lesson?
5. Look Past Imperfections of Others: I feel as though I have come a long way on this one. I have to get outside of myself and remind myself to give grace for that is truly what I would want others to do unto me!

So where are you at? How are you doing on your New Year’s Resolutions? Be real with yourself! Take an honest examination and start where you are at. Look how far you can come in six months. You have six more. Are you going to be in the same place then or are you going to start now? The decision is yours! On this Independence Day, claim your freedom from self-imposed perfection and begin/continue your journey!

The following Resolutions were made by our readers. I want a report!

• “I want to have more fun and laugh more with my kids. Not always be so task driven.” -Marian
• “To be patient and make sure my time spent with them is quality not just quantity!” -Emmalee
• “To read at least 6 books about parenting, to do at least a minimum of monthly family outings, and to spend more quality time with my kids.” -Joanne
• “I want to respond to my kids in a kind way at all times…even when I’m feeling frustrated, tired or moody.” -Sarah
• “I want to be a loving example for my kids and husband. I pray God helps me make the most of everyday He has blessed me with my family!” -Michelle
• “I want to learn how to be a better parent to an only child. It’s getting tougher as the years go on.” -Paulette
• “I plan on getting into the Word with my youngest daughter more often. We bought a mother/daughter devotional book and we love it.” -Katrina
• “I will be a healthier example for my children by eating at least 3 servings of veggies every day.” -Kelda
• “I have resolved to slow down and enjoy my kids while they are young.” -Stacie
• “I want to be exactly what God wants me to be. To work towards this goal everyday in every way, and to say sorry when I mess it all up.” -Shelli
• “I have resolved to ENJOY my kids – to not focus so much on what we get accomplished or how everything turns out, but rather just to enjoy them as children and as individuals that God has so richly blessed me with!” -Shannon