Just like most normal families, Teddy and I set aside time to plan out the upcoming year. There is something beautiful about putting on paper the things that we want to achieve, fulfill, and deliver on. This year, I found the cutest planner from Anthropologie (similar one here) and I couldn’t be more excited to fill up the blank pages. The hardest part is to be patient and allow time to do it's magic.
Speaking of goals, Teddy sets goals and achieves them without any excuses! Here is something you might not know about him - he can’t live without his Passion Planner! Teddy will not start his day before looking into his planner. For him, it’s almost like skipping coffee for breakfast. It’s a serious no-no. Everything has to be written down or else it’ll be forgotten or ignored. Having your life in a planner is a total life hack. Now you don’t have to crowd your brain with errands, lists, and projects that are subconsciously setting off stress-alarms. Teddy’s intent to living a stress-free life is very inspiring.
I, on the other hand, use the iPhone’s notepad for reminders. That is on a good day - sometimes, I don’t even do that! I try to juggle my “to-do list” in my head! Can you imagine how many trips I have to take to the grocery store?! I really should use my notepad more often.
Teddy’s dedication to the “planner life” motivated me to invest into my very first planner! I’m telling you, it’s a good feeling having the next three months planned out. On top of that, I enjoy watching the preview to my unrealistic dreams unravel. Thank you, Jesus. And if plans change or life takes a different direction, our bowed heads will rise again in no time!
-Our very first plan for 2018 was to move to a new apartment! We found an apartment that is conveniently located closer to both our jobs. This new apartment is bigger - which means, more room to play “hide-and-go-seek.” The scenic views and woodsy vibe is perfect to cozy down in our home. We love it here!
-We are purchasing a new car in the beginning of summer! I am living proof that a four-wheel drive in the North is a major requirement. Having snow on the roads six months out of the year makes survival difficult, especially for long-distance trips. I want to be confident on the road! I am also looking forward to learning perfect drifts and doughnuts.
-2017 has been all about Teddy and I. We spent most of our free time together. This year, our focus is going to change. We want to spend more quality time with our family and friends. We want to make as many great memories as possible with our close ones. We are ready to give more of our time and energy - whatever it takes! Get ready, we’ll be hitting you up, fam! Clear your schedules!
-One of my favorite plans for this year is travel. Whether it’s local mini-getaways or longer trips, our goal is to create unforgettable experiences. Life is short and we want to get to know our world a little better. We already have a few trips planned this year. This spring, we will be in Miami with our couple friends. Our second trip is to Charlotte, NC. I will be hosting Tuna’s baby shower!!! I still can’t believe that my little sister is prego! Last but not least, we are planning to visit the East Coast. EEKK I’m so excited to travel!
-My husband is becoming more involved in local ministry for the new Midwest Association of Slavic Churches. Praise God! Teddy will also be running the Information Department and he spends a lot of time setting things up! Proud wife moment here.
-Our final goal for this year is to reach more people for God! In my opinion, goals should be set and reached every year. But through it all, we need to stay flexible and optimistic. Some things are more important than goals - faith, family, friends. Lives should be changed and hearts should become soft. We all have an equal chance to make a difference in someone’s life. Let’s not take this blessed opportunity for granted. Together, we shall resemble Christ’s everlasting love and leave this world a better place, year after year.
“Dreams are only dreams until you write them down...then they are goals.”
“It always seems impossible until it is done.”
Take care,
Julie and Thaddeus