I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge - Summer Update!

   
"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?"

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Trish provides her August installment today. 

I met Trish Ayers in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theater, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [Click here to read Trish's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)? 

Trish Ayers:  My priority goals changed mid-June when I got a phone call from our daughter to say she had been put on bed rest until her twin boys were born.  So, the next day, I hopped on a plane to help.  From the moment I arrived it was a whirlwind of activity.  Our toddler grandson kept me busy, so busy that I noticed my clothes got looser on me.  It was a jump start to my goal of a healthy weight!  The twins were born seven weeks early and spent time in NICU where they got amazing  care.  It was a challenge to watch the sadness their parents felt when they returned home without the babies and even more difficult when the youngest and smallest little fellow developed some serious complications.  The blessing is they are both home with their parents and thriving.  Just a few days ago I returned home and was pleased to see that I dropped one size!

I carried my play 'Taking Stock' with me to the hospital every day and any free moment I edited it.  As a result, I am still on target for this goal.

While away I learned that my play 'Judging Quilts' was selected to be in the Kentucky Festival of New Plays and my husband and I were invited to participate in the Walk With The Arts event.  Our group, The Mountain Spirit Puppetswill perform my play, 'Gregory and the Dreamslayers' to more than 1,000 4th Graders during this event.  Also, I was contacted about 'Judging Quilts' being used in a college class focusing on women playwrights. 

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Trish Ayers:  I would say in July I successfully achieved at least one small step toward my goals every day by climbing up and down the steps to do the laundry for our daughter's family.  This daily exercise really moved me forward on my healthy weight goal.  With regards to my writing:  About 15 days, I achieved at least one small step toward my priority goals.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Trish Ayers:  My significant challenge (I wouldn't call it an obstacle) was having the energy to work on my writing after a full day of helping with the twins, a toddler and keeping up the house and laundry.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers: I learned to release myself from my own expectations and enjoyed the special time with our daughter's family.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for the remainder of August?

Trish Ayers:  In August I will:

1. Continue with the edit of 'Taking Stock'
2. Continue with my healthy eating and exercise program.
3. Finish painting the last wall in our bedroom.
4. Submit one piece of writing for publication.
5. Laugh, love and smile as much as possible.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Trish Ayers:  I look forward to getting back to work on my goals with the knowledge that at any moment I may get a phone call from our youngest daughter who is expecting our first granddaughter in October!  I have always said, "people over things", so this year has challenged me to remember this and relax and enjoy the beautiful children that have come into our life. 

[Kim Simpson:  Congratulations Trish!  So happy to hear that the babies are doing well, you're enjoying family and your creative projects.  Gives me such inspiration to push on toward my goals!]

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - August 20, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - August 20, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge - July Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela' Reinhart provides her July update today and reports on steady progress!

I met Angela, an artist-writer, in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery on line.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogs.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  Beginning July 16th I began setting aside at least two hours of studio time.  My time has been spent in art, writing, and study.  I met with an adviser in the Visual Arts Department at IPFW, and after much consideration, I am switching to the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Program with my concentration in Graphic Design.  I am in the process of completing a learning-style assessment.  My craft classes for the end of July came together well - I taught my 'Country Twine Necklace', 'Christmas Ornament' and 'Inspiring Window-Spinner' Classes.  Attendance at the fair was reasonable - Tuesday and Thursday were my busiest days for the craft classes.  Overall, I had approximately 30+ participants.

I completed my second assignment for my ICL advanced writing course.  This is a non-fiction article geared toward teens and career choices.  My first assignment, "First Feathers, First Flight" (fiction/pre-schoolers) has undergone some revisions and is set aside, possibly returning in assignment three.  My hope is to introduce as many writing pieces as possible for my instructor's keen eye and constructive criticisms.  But, for the next assignment I may work through the corrections she has offered, and hone a publishable piece while I have her guidance close at hand.

Recreational, family time has been a challenge.  We do attend church each Sunday and I am grateful for our meals together each day!  Other than these, we made ice cream a couple times, allowed our oldest son to camp for a week, a couple days swimming at the local pool, okayed several visits to friend's houses, took a family outing to see relatives (great talks and laughs!), all of us drove south a little to "ooo and ahhh" the local fireworks and came home to enjoy the Boston Symphony's spectacular display on television, met a couple in-law families to go see 'Toy Story 3' - GREAT movie, kept the pace with the first wonderful one.  The movie was a hit with all of us!! ;D

More than 50% of July has been dedicated to 30-minutes each day, each morning, allowing for my fitness and quiet time.  What a blessing it has been.  Only thing is . . . I wish I had started it sooner!  ;)  I am currently exercising to the 30-Day Shred DVD by Jillian Michaels - three great work outs!  Accomplished Level One and I am working my way into Level Two.  The rest of my morning work out is stretching and meditation.

As a couple . . . hmmm . . . we have our moments, but generally in passing.  Each evening we do enjoy our last cozy hour on the couch, watching a movie, or television show.  Several times this month I met hubby outside, at the picnic table, with a drink and we closed our day together with the children and a sunset.  Sweet.  Things not to to be taken for granted.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  I would have to rate the month of July at approximately 20+ days of basic steps in the right direction for family, home, work and . . . me time.  I am certain there will always be room for improvement.  For what I am able to do - I pat myself on the back ;) 

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  Three areas:  1)  Lack of sustainable confidence;  2)  Improved organization (progressing);  3)  Visual lay-out of priorities. 

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  The progress you make is only as good as the action put in it.  A friend/mentor is only a call, or a letter away.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for July?

Angela Reinhart:  Mid-month, I have signed up to attend the 'Heartland of Ohio Tolepainters Convention' (third year).  I am a die hard artist.  Who else would get a lump in their throat walking into an artist's conference?!  I usually fly solo at the conference, but LOVE the artist camaraderie among attendees, vendors and the convention staff.  It is always a remarkable experience.  I may take a class - 'Developing Your Art Business', offered previously.  Or I may possibly take a class with Bobbie Takashima, Gayle Liable, Gretchen Cagle - these, among others, are my role models when it comes to quality art.

Enrollment in the craft classes is down at the Purdue Extension Homemakers Summer Retreat (Lake Placid Convention Center, Hartford City, Indiana).  This would have been my fourth year.  The classes I had planned to offer:  'Picture Your Inspiration' (motivation posters) and 'Christmas Gourd Ornaments' (set of three).  Kits for these classes are available through my www.afreinhartART.etsy.com shop after August 10, 2010.  Early Holiday shopping for yourself, or that crafty friend, or goal-getter!  ;)  Other retail options are also under consideration for my Etsy Shop.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?  The organization of

Angela Reinhart:  The organization of my studio is coming along well.  I will provide a 'completion' picture instead of some progress shots.  My studio has gone from storage closet to office during the course of the last two months, or so.  With the majority of the sorting done, I made a visit to the local thrift shop, picked out a lovely, perfect desk for $30.  I moved a nice shelf my Grandpa made into my studio; and I revamped a shelf I made in college.

Everything stood about two feet out from the walls, so I could take the next step, a little repair work, and paint for the walls.  Along with this overhaul, I have removed the majority of the carpet to reveal a decent wood floor.  I purchased a couple rugs - 18" X 30" tan, green and brown, low pile $5.00) and a 27" X 45" dark brown shag ($10.00) at a Family Dollar.  The wall color plans are a beautiful Dark Toast (Valspar - Lowe's) for three walls and Waterfall (by ColorPlace -Walmart) for the window wall and door, as I walk in.  Painted trim will be a basic white.  I also came across a large framed print and rod/curtains I bought some time ago for my 'studio'.  The print was $3.00 and the curtain combo was under $20.00

Amazingly, my baby steps are paying off with very little cost invested.  At first it seemed as though the sorting was defeated by items mysteriously multiplying, but little by little I began to see hope amid the chaos.  My efforts are revealing a professional studio.  It can be done.  ["Yes," Angela - it can be done, you are proof of that!  One small step at a time, one day at a time - those small, concrete Daily Resolves do add up!  I am so proud of you, you are doing a fabulous job.  I can't wait to connect on the phone to hear more about how things are going.  ;) ]

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - August 9, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - August 9, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Seattle Area Multi-Media Artist & Author, Jan Beaver Coad, Takes The Challenge - May-June Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Jan Beaver Coad provides her May-June Update, and includes a update for her son who is also a 'resolutionista'.

I met Jan in 2009 during my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Formerly a community college instructor and administrator, she is a delightful creative soul, multi-media artist and author.  Jan has Undergraduate Degrees in Respiratory Therapy and a Masters Degree in Community Health Education.  She left full-time employment to pursue an art and writing career.  She and her children face many obstacles, including Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.

Jan is the author of 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?', a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation (the book will be available in August of 2010).  Jan is currently working on a memoir about the importance of setting goals and following your dreams.  She and her husband, children, cat, and dog live in the Seattle, Washington area.  [UPDATE:  Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  My son completed some big projects and finished his home school work.  We ended out the year on some history lessons on Alcatraz Island.  The tour was really amazing - audio tour narrated by actual prisoners and employees who lived on the island.  It was really informational and we will probably follow up with another research project for next year.

We made a second trip to the San Francisco Bay Area to complete research for my second book in the Farmers Market Series.  I have continued cooking and creating more new recipes that will be included in my photo books (making and photographing the recipes).  My husband and son came with me on this trip, so it was enjoyable time as a family too.

I continued walking and to to stay on Tinker, the 30-foot sailboat again.  She felt smaller this time since I shared her with my husband and son.  I also have continued working on marketing plans/materials, blog and book signing tour plans for my upcoming book 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions' (a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation).  I was able to spend time with the camera and post a few more photographic articles summarizing my trips to California, along with a photo story about our neighbor birds at the marina.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  As long as I keep the focus toward goals, it keeps me going.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Some health issues made themselves more noticeable with the added walking at the farmers market visits.  I had to have MRI's and see an orthopedic specialist.  I finally had to give in and have arthroscopic surgery to remove some torn cartilage and scrape some arthritis smooth.  I have been annoyed by my limited mobility, but in preparation, I finished painting the galley/kitchen in our new boat home before surgery.  I have had a hard time with frustration in not being able to get back over to the boat and work.  I want to be there, but know I should not push my luck with my knee and damage it further.

I overcame my obstacles by just taking the small steps forward and not stopping to look back.  My knee is feeling better and I have been able to stretch more and take less pain medication.  As long as I keep the focus toward goals, it keeps me going.  We all repeat our daily mantra, "Everything is going to be alright!". 

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  NEVER give up on your DREAMS.  I entered a contest for a show on the OPRAH WINFREY NETWORK and submitted a video entry.  I am not sure when they will announce the 35 participants they have chosen to interview for the show, but I remain optimistic that I will be on OPRAH one day. :)

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for May?

Jan Beaver Coad:  August is the publication date for my first book 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions.'  I am trying to gear up for marketing.  I plan to finish my Seattle Farmers Market book, so it is ready for editing, as it is scheduled for publication next March 2011. I have to stop working on the San Francisco Farmers Market book and work only on the Seattle Farmers Market Book - I have been flipping back and forth between the two. 

I also continue to remind myself, "Everything is going to be alright."  I intend to complete most work on the boat so we can move aboard; and I continue to simplify our lives as much as possible, as we transition from a 3500 square foot home to a 62 foot yacht.  :)

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - July 18, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - July 18, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge - June Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela' Reinhart provides her fifth installment today' - one of the obstacles that she continues to work to overcome: too many goals, too little time - she is working to improve time management and focus on priorities [I am working improve in these areas, as well, and will write more on that in coming days].

I met Angela, an artist-writer, in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogs.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  Six months into the year, I have taken a step out of the picture to see where I am exactly.  This venture in resolving seems to be a strategic game in psychology.  My plan to establish a regular submission schedule is hampered by not having a solid art/writing timetable.  It is a hit-or-miss schedule.  I have a sister-in-law that produces gorgeous wreaths and other decorative crafts.  She seems to pop them out like popcorn.  I asked her one time how she manages to find the time.  She said she blocks out time and just locks herself away; unless it is an emergency, she is left alone to do her work.

There is much to be said for this approach.  I have asked myself different times in trying to build my business at home, "What is different from my studio career at home compared to maintaining a position in a commercial design studio?"  A nine-to-five approach is the response.  That difference is holding me back from being fully productive.  With a busy seven member family, my expectations to maintain a full-time home studio may be a bit overzealous.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  With the children being home, for the day, I have found activities with them easier.  We are maintaining our garden, keeping up with the mowing, staying active bicycling, or playing ball.  A three-wheeler keeps us busy in our free time, beating an elongated kidney shape into our yard.  We all enjoy cooking.  In the family area, my goals are 50%, or better, for the month.

Steps toward my priority career goals have slipped.  Summer has presented its challenges in meeting my work goals.  For the month of June, I would honestly have to say I am at a 20% achievement rating.  I am certain without IResolveTo.Com, my resolutions would have been shelved one, or two, months ago, not forgotten, just temporarily set aside.  This site drives my determination.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  With the children being home, for the day, I have found activities with them easier. Summer, however, has presented challenges in meeting my work goals.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  There is an accountability system, for myself, that I am finding and putting into effect.  As I am more and more 'aware of how I am struggling,' I am able to key into specific areas where I can focus my attention.  In learning how to address these issues/challenges, I have begun reading 'The Twelve Step and Twelve Traditions', not just for alcohol, but in conquering bad habits.  I will gain ground and find better progress toward my goals.  I would recommend this book to anyone struggling to overcome any plaguing bad habits.  I believe slow and steady wins the race.  The main competitions I face are my bad habits and overcoming them 'is' the challenge.  Somewhere I read, to fill your mind with the positives and there will be no room for the negative.  I like that thought.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for July?

Angela Reinhart:  July is a renewal month.  I want to focus my steps. on:

1. Blocking out four hours each day, Monday through Saturday for my studio work, in at least two hour increments.  I can always build up to more.
2. Keep my current art/writing requests a priority and follow through with polished professionalism.
3. Make time for play with family and 'me time' for myself.
4. Do something special as a couple - daily, weekly and monthly.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Angela Reinhart:  Concerning my college studies, following the Spring Semester, I attended the Summer Session One online.  I am waiting until Fall to continue.  This continues to be quite a challenge.  I am in the process of defining my study style.  I am considering the competency-based degree program through Western Governors University.  I want to be conscientious of choosing the avenue that works best for me.  Here is to taking those steps, pursuing our passions and making it happen.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - July 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - July 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge - May Update!

 "Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?"

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Trish provides her May installment today. 

I met Trish Ayers in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theater, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [Click here to read Trish's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)? 

Trish Ayers:  My goals for April and May were reduced some, so I could regain my strength after a tough winter. 

1. Finish the final scene of my full-length play 'Taking Stock'.
2. Continue to shred papers.
3. Create binders as my organization system.
4. Produce the production of a collaborative play.
5. Submit one piece of writing.
6. Continue to de-clutter our house.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Trish Ayers:  I think most days I made at least one small step toward my goals. 

1. I usually started the day with either editing a bit on my play, or working on the pesky final scene.  Finally in May I had a break through and completed the final scene.  It was a true day of celebration.  It turns out the reason I was struggling with the end was because I wasn't being brave enough to write the end that needed to be written.  A member of the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar challenged me to push myself and she was so very right.  That is the joy of working with fellow playwrights.  They sometimes encourage you to go places in your plays that are difficult to go to.
2. Continue to shred paper required creating a system that made it easy for me to follow through on this goal.  I placed a small basket under my desk where I placed papers daily that needed to be shredded and once a week, prior to recycling pick up, I shredded papers that I collected.
3. Creating binders as an organization system has been great fun.  A fellow writer and dear friend and I meet once a month to work on our binders.  We work hard, eat together and always allow time to chat.  My home binder really came in handy as my husband prepared to leave for Japan for a month.  He put all his flight information in the binder and other items I might need while he was away.  I find that I am adding something to one of my binders on almost a daily basis.  This binder has made us do some things we have been putting off.  The binders also helped me with my writing submission process.  Now I can go to the binder and everything is handy.
4. Sadly the collaborative play had to be postponed.  Several members of the cast were exposed to a highly contagious infection and they needed to be with the family member who was hospitalized with the infection.  It just seemed the most humane thing to do was to postpone the production.  It was very difficult for me to do this, but I did realize it was best for all involved.
5. I managed to get back to submitting my writing and met my goal of submitting one piece each month.
6. Continued to de-clutter our house.  I took one bag of books that I had read to the local second hand bookstore.  They gave me credit for the books and I plan to use that credit come Christmas time.  I also made good progress on clearing out the room that will become our creative room.  Several times a week I worked for 15-minutes on sorting through papers, etc.  Before trash pick up day my husband and I looked through the room to see if there was anything we could discard.  This really helped.  We also made a list of the order of home projects we desire to complete.  In May we picked out a rich green paint for our bedroom and I am currently painting it while my husband is gone. The dogs seem to be adjusted to our bed being in the center of the room!  I love the color and I smile every time I walk into the room.  This motivates me to look at painting other rooms . . . after all our grandbabies are born.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Trish Ayers:  Regaining my stamina after the rough winter was my most significant obstacle.  I overcame this obstacle by pushing myself to do more physically every day.  Our grandson helped me during late May when we spent a week with him.  By the end of the day I felt like I had run a marathon!

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers: I learned to keep moving forward - that doing something on my goals each day made for visible progress come the end of the month.  I also learned that creating a system (binders and paper shredding) made it seem less like a chore.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for June?

Trish Ayers:  June is going to be an interesting month because I will have lots of time on my own.  Which means I can set up my own schedule.  My goals for the month are:

1. Paint our bedroom.  I am already 1/3 of the way there thanks to no VOC paints.
2. Continue shredding paper.
3. Submit one play to a contest.  I know the contest, I just need to submit it.
4. I am helping to judge a playwriting contest, so this will take some time and organization (all the plays come to me).
5. I will edit the final scene of 'Taking Stock' and then go over the play again for fine tune editing.  I plan on running off copies of the first act this month in preparation for the reading in December.  [Starting in July, I am going to be quite busy with all the new babies, so I want to get ahead of things]
6. Continue with my binder organization system.
7. I am going to start to write a screenplay.  I have had the idea for years and I have a friend who is a successful screenwriter who is going to assist me in the writing.  This scares me as much as it excites me!

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Trish Ayers:  I Look forward to the I Resolve To . . . Chat on Gather.Com.  It always inspires me.  [Note:  The next Gather Resolutionista Chat is June 29 from 8:00 to 9:00 P.M. (ET).]

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - June 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - June 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Seattle Area Multi-Media Artist & Author, Jan Beaver Coad, Takes The Challenge - March-April Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Jan Beaver Coad provides her second installment, a report on her March-April progress and planning efforts.  Like Trish and Angela, Jan deserves a large 'gold star' for her dedicated progress on priority goals, despite obstacles and set-backs.  A strong, smart, talented woman, she is striving to stay positive and work through 2010 roadblocks one-by-one.  Happy belated 40th Birthday, Jan.

I met Jan in 2009 during my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Formerly a community college instructor and administrator, she is a delightful creative soul, multi-media artist and author.  Jan has Undergraduate Degrees in Respiratory Therapy and a Masters Degree in Community Health Education.  She left full-time employment to pursue an art and writing career.  She and her children face many obstacles, including Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.

Jan is the author of 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?', a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation (the book will be available in August of 2010).  Jan is currently working on a memoir about the importance of setting goals and following your dreams.  She and her husband, children, cat, and dog live in the Seattle, Washington area.  [UPDATE:  Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  I have been cooking like a fiend, creating more new recipes that will be in my books (making and photographing them).  I am closer to completion of the Seattle Book #1 in the new Farmers Market series.  I also spent two weeks in San Francisco researching the second book in the series.  So am I working on those recipes as well.

I left homeschooling work for my husband to work on math/physics/earth science-type assignments, since he works for a geotechnical engineering firm (he is the engineer, but tests soils, evaluates for landslide hazards, etc. . . . which is perfect for what our little guy was studying!  Our son is really thriving on learning at home.  He was so anxious at school that he could not focus.  Now we are tailoring studies to his autistic obsessions and he is loving it!

I walked quite a bit while staying on my friends' 30-foot sailboat and was getting more exercise.  I even wore my special shoes that are suppose to help 'tone' (special heels that work your muscles).  I also ate fresh foods from the Farmers Markets (we visited 27 in the two weeks that I was there) and I lost a few pounds.

I also have been working on marketing plans for my upcoming book and creating more marketing materials.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  [Kim Simpson:  Continued, steady, day-by-day progress, despite obstacles.]

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Procrastination and some minor depression has stalled some of my efforts.  Business is not going as well as it has in the past, so we MUST downsize.  So, I have been purging clothing, the Tupperware cabinet, dishes . . . basically everything for a major garage sale.

I overcome my obstacles by just taking the small steps forward and not stopping to look back.  As long as I keep the focus toward goals, it keeps me going.  My husband and I have now passed the saying on to (or his little perceptive mind has caught on) our son and he is now saying,"Everything is going to be alright!"

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  "To be nobody but yourself in a world that is doing its best to make you someone else, is to fight the hardest battle you are ever going to fight.  Never stop fighting."  E.E. Cummings

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for May?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Finish up my Seattle book, so it is ready for editing.  I have to stop working on the San Francisco book and focus on SEATTLE only.  I have been flipping back and forth. 

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Continue to remind myself that, "Everything is going to be alright."  I also plan to drive down to San Francisco to finish the research for Farmers Market Book #3.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - March 12, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - March 12, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge - April Update!

 "Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela'Reinhart provides her third installment today' and will soon provide photos of her new 'art/writing studio, which is in progress! 

I met Angela in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

Angela describes herself as a "wanna-be artist" in the field of animation and voice-over work, but her overall career accomplishments are many.  She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogs.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  WOW, April has come and gone rather quickly.  My children would say otherwise - this month they had ISTEP at school :) . . . It probably seemed to drag by.  My health issues are again in the forefront.  Primary goal in April was to address these symptoms and take steps to improve my condition.  Further testing is necessary to better identify exactly what the issues may be (toxicity - possibly).  Detoxing and avoidance are my main steps. 

My writing and art goals for April have been met, partially.  Lack of a regular schedule has held me back.  My studio organization is progressing - no pictures, yet.  I have made progress.  I have ironed out issues with my study program and feel  more confident about it.  I have several writing submissions in the works.  I have a couple fiction pieces for young readers and several non-fiction ideas, including a possible book series.  All of them are 'under construction', but it is progress, nonetheless.  My art is geared toward upcoming on-sight tutorials.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  The month of April has seen improvement, probably close to 20 days achieving steps (even small ones) toward my goals.  I am trying to keep my focus refined.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  Schedule, balancing priorities, staying confident and optimistic.  I keep in mind that there is a purpose to the passions that I have placed inside me.  This is no accident.  I stay mindful that when I am open to where my skills can be used and am vigilant in pursuing possible avenues - the right doors will open.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  One lesson, I am learning, is not to be too hard on myself.  If I am not able to do something, or I am feeling a certain way, there may be a good explanation.  Not necessarily obvious on the surface.  This lesson seems to hold true through April.  I will add also, that when I need help - it is okay to 'ask for help'.  There is always someone, somewhere, that can provide an answer, or a new direction.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for May?

Angela Reinhart:  I plan to post a picture of my writing/art studio with my April update, soon.  If not this month, I will include it with my next report.  I want to make a point to stop in and read the updates of our community members.  I find this very inspiring.  May holds fine tuning a writing submission, and acquiring some advice for it.  My art goal is to finish preparations for one of my summer classes and follow up with submission ideas for a pending response - one of the BIG design companies.  Hopefully may will hold some good news regarding my art submissions.

Also on tap:  Post a regular work schedule.  Eat right.  Exercise.  Every step counts.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Angela Reinhart:  Accountability is a necessity.  I am hooking up with resources to keep me on task.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - May 1, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - May 1, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge - March Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Trish provides her third (March) installment today.  She deserve a whole series of 'gold stars' on her calendar for a job well done because she was dealing with health issues while making progress one small step at a time, one day at a time!

I met Trish Ayers in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theater, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [Click here to read Trish's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?  [Note:  Thanks to the crush of daily activity and other obstacles, monthly updates by Resolutionistas are sometimes delayed beyond the first of the month.  Obstacles are a common threat to progress - the trick is to take them in stride, make course corrections, and continue follow through via rewewed small daily steps.]

Trish Ayers:  March Goals -

1. Work on going through our 'Junk Room' and begin to turn it into a guest room/craft room.
2. Submit one piece of writing.
3. Lose weight and eat healthy.
4. Shred paper (as a playwright, poet, essayist, I have a stack of revisions).
5. Work on organizing my papers into binders.
6. Begin production of a collaborative play.
7. Edit one scene on new full-length play, "Taking Stock'.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Trish Ayers:  March was a rough month.  I continued to deal with respiratory issues and I fell and hurt my side!  Not much fun to breathe.  Still, I managed to meet some of my goals and worked on my goals at least half the days in March.

1. I did very little work on the craft room because of my health issues.  I plan on getting back to this project now.  We did manage to remove several large items and found good homes for them.
2. I submitted one piece of writing and gave permission for another person to read a couple of my plays, which are in an in-process manuscript.  In March, even while ill, I managed to have five of my 10-minute plays ready to submit.
3. There is nothing like trying to lose weight while taking Prednisone.  I managed not to put on weight by watching my food portions.
4. I did a bit of my 'shredding paper' project, but it also was limited.
5. I did little work on my effort to 'organize my papers into binders', but I did maintain the binders I had started; and my husband was thrilled when it came time to figure out taxes that everything was on one binder!
6. I am sad to say the 'collaborative play' had to be cancelled because two cast members were dealing with a seriously ill child who was fighting a contagious infection.  It was decided to postpone the show, so as not to expose the cast, and out of concern for the cast members dealing with the illness of the child.
7. The play 'Taking Stock' is moving along nicely.  During the editing process I have been able to flesh out my characters more and the play is strengthening.  Editing is a good thing.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Trish Ayers:  Once again, my health limited me on the amount of work I was able to do on goals.  I took it one day at a time and tried to take small steps, which also helped me to stay positive during a challenging time.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers:  I learned that maintaining positive patterns is also important when working on goals. Even though I wasn't able to move forward as much as I desired, I saw benefits of the previous work.  This reinforced my desire to continue with my goals and making small steps.

I also learned that sometimes a good dose of family will make me feel better!  Balance is important and fun is part of that balance.  Of late, I have become way too serious.  I need to relax a bit and hold my grandson while listening to my daughter's laughing.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for April?

Trish Ayers:  Well, since it is 3/4 through April, I can say that I have backed off a bit on my goals, so I can completely heal.  This past weekend we had a wonderful mini-family vacation that has given me the burst toward getting back on track with my goals.

My goals for next month:

1. Take a bag of books to sell at the local used bookstore and move bookshelves into the office-craft room.  I also plan on spending 15-minutes each day sorting through things and organizing items.
2. Submit one piece of writing.
3. Lose weight and eat healthy.
4. Shred paper.
5. Work on organizing papers into binders.
6. Finish editing the First Act of 'Taking Stock'.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Trish Ayers:  Once again, I strongly encourage people to join us on the Gather.Com chat you have.  I always feel inspired by the comments of others participating during the chat.  [Note:  The next Gather Resolutionista Chat is June 29 from 8:00 to 9:00 P.M. (ET).]

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - April 25, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - April 25, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge - March Update!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela'Reinhart provides her second installment today.  She runs into the same challenge that I face each week - a 'To Do List' that does not match a 24-hour day.  Like me, she is working toward a realistic workplan built upon small daily steps.

I met Angela in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

Angela describes herself as a "wanna-be artist" in the field of animation and voice-over work, but her overall career accomplishments are many.  She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogs.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  March was geared more toward health steps, than my art and writing path.  The variety of symptoms were easy enough to ignore, but little by little the symptoms are treading on my daily activities and I know I could be, should be, in better health.  I am taking steps in the right direction.  Family, meanwhile, is priority.  I find we are enjoying quality time, but want to make activities more planned, maybe visit locations and have an actual family time-talk time.  My study program is not going well, in all honesty, much of which has to do with making available the appropriate amount of study time.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  WOW, didn't March seem to fly by?  My successful days devoted toward my goal(s) are, again, about 50% or less.  It becomes more and more apparent that I am spreading myself too thin.  I need to better outline my priority goals each month.  It is the goals I have well outlined that I make the most headway.  I have contacted several retail art avenues, and provided sample writings for a newspaper column inquiry.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  Obstacles, significant - in the eye of the beholder I suppose.  I find myself up against some health issues that are finally, like a puzzle, beginning to make sense.  This month I can see where my health has been my biggest obstacle.  There is a multitude of symptoms and I know that I have an idea 'what' it is, so I can begin a strong path to healing.  Going to the doctor is something I have just had to overcome - the fear as well as the cost.  If it was let go too long, I may not have had a choice about 'trying' to heal.  As far as my art is concerned, my biggest obstacle, aside from focus  and energy, is consistency and keeping a regular schedule.  I plan to post a schedule for myself, but also for my family.  Working at home is no small task.  Everyone has to be mindful that this is my work and I am sticking to it ;).  Along with my work schedule, I need to provide a play schedule, as much for myself as for my family.

Stay Constructive.  Mind.  Heart.  Soul.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  One lesson, I am learning, is not to be too hard on myself.  If I am not able to do something, or I am feeling a certain way, there may be a good explanation . . . Not necessarily obvious on the surface.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for April?

Angela Reinhart:  Take a closer look at what I am involved in and make some crucial decisions as to exactly what I need to follow to better position myself for my dream career and best avenue to benefit my family.  To better hold myself accountable I plan to post a picture of my refined studio with my April update next month.  Here's to those baby steps.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Angela Reinhart:  As my efforts toward full-time art/writing from my home studio develops, it becomes more and more imperative that my physical studio follow suit.  Organizing and structuring my home business is my main goal for April.  The avenues and progress will logically follow.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - April 2, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - April 2, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Seattle Area Multi-Media Artist & Author, Jan Beaver Coad, Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Jan Beaver Coad provides her second installment, a report on her February progress and planning efforts.  Like Trish and Angela, Jan deserves a large 'gold star' for her dedicated progress on priority goals!

I met Jan in 2009 during my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Formerly a community college instructor and administrator, she is a delightful creative soul, multi-media artist and author.  Jan has Undergraduate Degrees in Respiratory Therapy and a Masters Degree in Community Health Education.  She left full-time employment to pursue an art and writing career.  She and her children face many obstacles, including Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.

Jan is the author of 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?', a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation (the book will be available in August of 2010).  Jan is currently working on a memoir about the importance of setting goals and following your dreams.  She and her husband, children, cat, and dog live in the Seattle, Washington area.  [UPDATE:  Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  February 2010 = short month, it felt like it really flew by!

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  I have been cooking much more and creating new recipes that will be used in my books (making and photographing them).  I am closer to completion of the Seattle Farmers Market Book #1 in the new series. 

I have taken steps to have my son at home = homeschooling him.  No more battles with the people, or building of the school district any more!  We won't tolerate the bullying, disciplining a child with a disability, etc.  For now his education is most important and he has a better chance to learn from us than the horrible school district we live in.

I have been working in my yard and getting more exercise.  I even purchased a pair of tennis shoes that are suppose to help "tone" (special heels that work your muscles).

I have been working on marketing plans for my upcoming book, as well as creating marketing materials.

And I have been working on plans for an auction for my nonprofit.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Financially we are struggling - my husband's company is trying to weather this economy and my husband's ex-wife is trying to obtain a huge, unwarranted amount from my husband.  Luckily the wonderful attorney who helped with my son's battles also does family law, so we are in good hands.  We are going to try to sell our home again and downsize and maybe we will end up in a state with less taxes :).

Homeschooling is taking some work!  I overcome my obstacles by just taking the small steps forward and not stopping to look back.  As long as I keep the focus toward goals it keeps me going.  My husband and I also have a saying for each other when we can tell the other needs to hear it:  "Everything is going to be alright!"

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Aristotle said, "The highest level of human nature is friendship."  I learned that I have to keep my friends close and rely on them when I need them.  I have a tendency to be introverted and hide from the world when overwhelmed.  I have learned if I don't call my best friend every few days she is checking up on me.  I need to get together with my friends.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for April?

Jan Beaver Coad:  Celebrate my 41st Birthday!  Finish my Seattle Farmers Market Book #1 so it is ready for editing.  Fly to San Francisco to research my next book (Yay, two weeks on my own . . .).  I hope to visit 20-plus Farmers Markets and begin my search for farmers and products to showcase.  I am already intrigued by a farm named "Dirty Girl Produce".  Continue to work on my auction plans and nonprofit work.  Walk, walk, walk - I am not renting a car in San Francisco, so I will be doing as much walking and using public transportation as possible.  Continue to remind myself that, "Everything is going to be alright."

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - March 12, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

 

Kim M. Simpson - March 12, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela'Reinhart provides her second installment today.  She runs into the same challenge that I face each week - a 'To Do List' that does not match a 24-hour day.  Like me, she is working toward a realistic workplan built upon small daily steps.

I met Angela in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

Angela describes herself as a "wanna-be artist" in the field of animation and voice-over work, but her overall career accomplishments are many.  She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogs.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  February has been a step in clarity, my ambitions are bigger than my time will allow.  Narrowing my concentrations are a main focus currently.  As much as I would enjoy the opportunity to get into animation, it is an area that is officially on hold.  My goals this month have been to move into article submissions, but my strengths are in the area of art.  With this in mind, my efforts have moved to focusing on avenues for custom art and retail product design.  I could see a solid career here.  I have met my new goals of submitting artwork samples to a variety of design avenues.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  Combining my work and family goals remain quite a challenge.  For the month of February I would say I have met probably 40% of my established goals.  I want to better focus on writing my (our) goals in a good family location.  This will give it more priority and less likely to be forgotten.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  The challenge of balance and priorities continues to keep me searching for new approaches that work.  Again, taking time to write down goals has been a great benefit, along with using a timer - for studies and cleaning, etc.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  One lesson learned is patience will pay off.  When my challenges overwhelm me I refer to inspirational. articles.  I know these success stories in business and health are real people, just like me and I know with persistence, I, too, will see my goals come true.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for April?

Angela Reinhart:  For The time being my article submissions are temporarily on hold.  My devotion will be toward my Bachelor Degree, obtaining a full-time art position and continuing to establish family time and good organization at home.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Angela Reinhart:  Admitting that you need help is okay and a good way to grow.  I think people are together for a reason, our contacts with one another work to make things better.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - March 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - March 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Trish provides her second installment today.  She deserve a whole series of 'gold stars' on her calendar for a job well done!

I met Trish Ayers in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theater, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [Click here to read Trish's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Trish Ayers:  February's Goals -

1. Work on going through our 'Junk Room' and begin to turn it into a guest room/craft room.
2. Submit one piece of writing.
3. Lose weight and eat healthy.
4. Shred paper (as a playwright, poet, essayist, I have a stack of revisions).
5. Work on organizing my papers into binders.
6. Begin production of a collaborative play.
7. Edit one scene on new full-length play, "Taking Stock'.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Trish Ayers:  It was another rough month with regards to my health, so I applaud all of the progress I have made.

Goal #1 - Work on 'Junk Room' - I worked on this at least 15 days (15 minute blocks) and we are beginning to see progress.

Goal #2 - Submit one piece of writing - I didn't actually submit one piece, but made contact with a person who is interested in seeing my plays, which I will be sending out this week.

Goal #3 - Lose weight and eat healthy - I met this goal all but one day thanks to our new habit of eating oranges as our new favorite late night snack.  One night we broke down and had a small bowl of ice cream.  I also had to really watch my diet because of a flare-up of blood sugar issues due to having to take Prednisone for my breathing.  Thanks to this small change my weight loss continues.  I have dropped 15 pounds. 

Goal #4 - Shred papers - I worked on this goal about 10 days.

Goal #5 - Work on organizing my papers into binders - I spent one day working on this.  I regret I was not able to meet with my friend to work on this together, but I still required it of myself to spend time on it.  Later in February it paid off when I needed something and was able to go straight to a binder to find it.

Goal #6 - Begin production of collaborative play - I worked on this all but six days.  The undertaking of being a producer challenged me especially with not feeling well and I am pleased to say we are right on track now.  I am so thankful for my laptop which allowed me to work when I didn't have the ability to work at my desk. 

Goal #7 - Edit one scene on new full-length play "Taking Stock" - I worked on this three days and I have to say I am quite pleased with the scene.

Ultimately, I achieved at least one small step toward priority goals.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Trish Ayers:  My breathing issues continued to plague me, so I set up my office on the couch and our coffee table.  Thanks to this I was able to continue to work on my goals.  There also were obstacles with the collaborative play (constant cast changes) and I kept in touch with the director and when I doubted, I visualized the actual successful production.  We now have a great cast.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers:  Once again small steps lead to large progress on my goals.  The simple step of replacing our not so healthy night snack with an orange made a huge difference.  I realized that in the next few months I want to find another unhealthy habit to address.  Slow and steady progress is the answer to lifelong changes.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for February?

Trish Ayers:  Next month I will continue to focus on the same goals. 

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Trish Ayers:  Once again, I strongly encourage people to join us on the once a month Gather.Com chat you have.  I always feel inspired by the comments of others participating during the chat.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - March 10, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - March 10, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Seattle Area Multi-Media Artist & Author, Jan Beaver Coad, Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Jan Beaver Coad provides her first installment, a report on her January progress and planning efforts.

I met Jan in 2009 during my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Formerly a community college instructor and administrator, she is a delightful creative soul, multi-media artist and author.  Jan has Undergraduate Degrees in Respiratory Therapy and a Masters Degree in Community Health Education.  She left full-time employment to pursue an art and writing career.  She and her children face many obstacles, including Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.

Jan is the author of 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?', a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation (the book will be available in August of 2010).  Jan is currently working on a memoir about the importance of setting goals and following your dreams.  She and her husband, children, cat, and dog live in the Seattle, Washington area.  [UPDATE:  Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  "My goals for 2010  - Learning to trust my inner self."  January is about making plans, setting goals, deciding what I want for 2010 - it is about new beginnings and fresh starts.  I am taking what I learned in 2009 and applying it to my goals for this year.  I want to see my career ambitions finally amp up to the point of seeing real rewards - my time for success has come.  My first book will be published in August and I will be busy working on books for publication in March 2011 and beyond. 

My secret for being productive is clearly defining my large goals and writing them down, so they become real.  I also like to share them with others, so I am accountable.  Finally, I break them into smaller, manageable, little steps that I can do, and check off periodically, as I work toward each goal.  This is how I am a Resolutionista rather than writing resolutions that I will break!  I am learning to react better to what happens to my family and me.  "Life is 10% of what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it," according to John Maxwell.

My Major Goals:

1.  Dreams and Creativity:

• Selling my fiber art.
• Creating time for my artwork.
• Finding a new group of students for the nonprofit curriculum/club.

2.  Food and Nutrition:

• Cooking at home at least five days a week.
• Writing my recipes and sharing what I am learning in my food series.

3.  Health and Exercise:

• Finding the discipline to walk more regularly.
• Getting Princess (my dog) on a regular walking routine.
• Setting up a gym in the family room for indoor exercise in rainy Washington State.

4.  Giving Back:

• Working more closely with the Washington Autism Society.
• Public speaking about Autism Spectrum Conditions.
• Be my son's best advocate with his school - IEP and teachers.
• Home school if no resolution can be made.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Jan Beaver Coad:  January 1st, my son and I began the year off with a bang.  We moved my antique mall space that was an hour away (across a toll bridge) much closer to home and my son became my business partner.  We moved all large furniture and display items into our new shop and began the move.

January 2-8, we had a cold/flu, so we spent time listening to our bodies and rested.  While at home resting we created price tags and began readying our items to move into the new shop.  We took little trips to place a few items at a time, so we didn't over-do it and rested in between.  We also ate lots of soup and cooked at home.  I kept fruit in the house and we have been eating the fruits we canned last September.

January 10-15, I taught my son what it meant to be an entrepreneur and we talked about our business plan and will be doing a project on entrepreneurship.  I have been working on my book and my recipes.  I need to cook each one, so I can photograph them for my book.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Jan Beaver Coad:  The end of the month was a bit overwhelming.  We had some meetings with advocacy groups to see if we can get my son back into school (he has been out since a traumatic event last October).  We have been working with a tutor and home schooling.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  I have finally decided that since we can't move/sell our home, we have to figure out how to get him back to school (his autism and anxiety have prevented him from being able to return to the school building).  It has become clear that I have to find a way to overlook the past bullying and discipline for his disability and TEACH the teachers how to teach him.  So that has consumed much of my time.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for February?

Jan Beaver Coad:  With the school trauma and drama going on, I haven not been as successful as I had hoped, but I have made a step forward in some manner each day.  I have just had to prioritize and know that I will get to each of my major goals throughout the year!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - February 22, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - February 22, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - A.F. 'Angela'Reinhart provides her first installment today.  She made some great progress on her goals!

I met Angela in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published
author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

Angela describes herself as a "wanna-be artist" in the field of animation and voice-over work, but her overall career accomplishments are many.  She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogues.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces.  [Click here to read Angela's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Angela Reinhart:  I enrolled with Indiana University to complete my Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education.  My part-time courses include:  Introduction To Political Science and American History To 1877.  The course work has taken me through the first of four chapters in three separate texts.  February 1 has seen the submission of my first assignment.  During January, however, it seems my intentions for improved exercise have taken a backseat.  We canned meat during the month and made rhubarb jam on a couple occasions.  As far as my writing goes, I have collected research materials for a couple pending articles and have developed the writing, but the final products are not ready to submit.  I hope to polish them this week and send at least one of them off by the weekend.  On a lighter note, family time is better.  We are  trying to  leave Wednesday and Friday evenings open to relax more with the kids.  Not an easy task.  Balance sounds so simple.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Angela Reinhart:  My goal to organize my studio and home has been a significant obstacle.  High expectations and low results.  I can be beaming with enthusiasm and ready to go, however, I need to subdue my "all or nothing approach," and take my baby steps more seriously.  Every little bit helps.  New habits take time to establish.  Knowing the change is important and will benefit everyone will make a big difference in how quickly things change.  I may have overshot my expectations for January: I met goals 15 out of the 31 days.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Angela Reinhart:  Negativity is another enemy.  I have found that when I repeat a phrase of optimism it helps considerably to stay on a more positive playing field.  Mid-January I found myself repeating one prhase in times of trouble:  "Stay constructive.  Mind. Heart. Soul."

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  Patience and determination are seeing me through this transition time.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for February?

Angela Reinhart:  I plan to be better organized with my living space, as well as my actual goals, on a daily and weekly basis.  February will be my month to refine my schedule and move into regular article submissions.  Early in February, I have some 'logo artwork' on tap that I plan to send out by the 5th.  I am excited to see what comes of these designs.  A new gourd piece is in progress for a donation to a raffle in late February.  More details to follow.  I will post more on my Artisme Blog at Gather.Com.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - February 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - February 11, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge!

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Resolutionista (rez - o - lution - ista)  Noun 1. Someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions and enjoys the journey.

In  2010 several Resolutionistas have agreed to take the I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  They are building their year-long game plans around their own personal dreams, resolutions, goals, and Daily Resolves.  Each month, they will report on their achievements, obstacles and lessons learned - Trish provides her first installment today and should receive 'Kudos' for her accomplishments!

I met Trish Ayers in 2009 in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theater, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [Click here to read Trish's 2009 Profile.]

Kim Simpson:  Please provide highlights of your priority goals (you may have one theme with several goals, or goals that vary each month, or some other combination)?

Trish Ayers:  In January I had a number of goals: 

1. Work on going through our 'Junk Room' and begin to turn it into a guest room/craft room.
2. Submit one piece of writing.
3. Lose weight and eat healthy.
4. Shred paper (as a playwright, poet, essayist, I have stacks of revisions).
5. Work on organizing my papers into binders.
6. Begin production of a collaborative play.
7. Edit one scene on a new play, 'Taking Stock'.

Kim Simpson:  How many days did you successfully achieve at least one small step toward your priority goal(s)?

Trish Ayers:  Every day I achieved at least one small step toward priority goals.

1. Kept fruit in our house and replaced unhealthy snacks with fruit.
2. Managed to work on guest room/craft room at least 15 days.
3. Spent time during one day submitting a piece of writing.
4. Spent time during one day looking for submission possibilities.
5. Spent time during at least 15 days shredding paper.
6. Spent time during one day working with a fellow writer on my binder projects (we schedule this for once a month).
7. Spent time during 10 days working on producing the collaborative play.
8. Spent time during three days working on new play, 'Taking Stock'.

Kim Simpson:  What were your significant obstacles?  How did you overcome the obstacles?

Trish Ayers:  The wild weather affected my breathing, so I did short bursts on the more active projects.  My new laptop computer made it possible to do a great amount of writing and writing-related projects while stretched out on the couch!

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers:  I saw that small steps add up to positive progress on larger goals.  This was especially helpful with what seemed like the overwhelming guest room/craft room project.  It is amazing the things that we kept that we did not need.  It is helpful to set up a monthly time for goals and work with someone else.  My dear writer friend and I both like binders for organizing, so we have been meeting once a month and it is amazing how quickly our papers are getting organized.  Also, always have fruit in the house!

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for February?

Trish Ayers:  Next month I plan to continue with the same goals.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - February 10, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - February 10, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.  [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Waikato, New Zealand Organic Gardener And Writer, Suzi Franks

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

Suzi Franks joined the official I Resolve To® . . . Group at Gather.Com in 2009 and I have since enjoyed her positive attitude and fabulous website 2womenon2acres.com.  Hailing from Waikato, New Zealand, Suzi is an organic gardener and writer.  Given my love of gardening and writing, I was instantly drawn to her posts and her website.  She owns a two-acre block of paradise and is a constant organic gardener specializing in heirloom and rare seeds, plants and trees.  Suzi shares her land with six dogs, one cat, one house cow, three goats, one lamb and several chickens.  In addition to writing for her website, she currently is working on a series of organic gardening books that will concentrate on one cultivar in each book and be a comprehensive guide to 'all you would need to know' about that cultivar (history, sowing seed, tending seedlings, harvesting, saving seed, and storing).

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Suzi Franks:  Not in the conventional sense.  I am blessed with a good imagination and can visualize where I want my life to take me.  I also am lucky in that once my mind is made up, I have NEVER changed it and I always have reached my goals and achieved my dreams.  It may not always be in the desired time frame or, indeed, in the way I had imagined, but always the end result was better and more satisfying than the original thought!!

I am a firm believer in taking responsibility for my life and how it turns out.  By this I mean, when I get old and incapacitated, if I haven't lived the adventurous, fulfilling life I wanted for myself, then I only have myself to blame.  People say, "Oh!  You are SO lucky."  Umm, no, I am proactive, a different thing altogether.  They also say, "I always have wanted to do that."  I reply, "Why haven't you!".  Then they start with the excuses and I think, well you can't really have wanted to do it then!

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Suzi Franks:  Again, I am blessed, I have SO many passions that it amazes me how anyone can be bored.  My problem is I don't get enough time to focus on all my passions :) . . . I suppose I am a lifelong learner and cannot imagine not having to research, or learn something new.

But, my primary focus at this moment in time is turning our two-acre piece of paradise into a totally self-sufficient oasis of abundance and beauty.  We have an area that gave me a picture of what it wanted from me the day I stepped foot on the land and I am obliging by growing rare and heirloom varieties.  I have studied and researched organic gardening since we moved in four years ago.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality?

Suzi Franks:  Difficult question, but I think I have quite a lot of determination if I am on a quest.  A quest is how I think of my dreams, ambitions and goals (so much more motivating than simply 'goals').  I find that place inside me that somehow loves a challenge, then I light the blue touch paper, stand back, and off I go. :)  [Kim Simpson:  I hadn't heard this phrase before - lighting the blue touch paper means doing something that causes anger, or excitement, according to the Collins online dictionary.]

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Suzi Franks:  My biggest problem is that I set my standards and the bar for the achievable daily goals way too high and I am a hard taskmaster; but since my back injury I have learned to slow down and talk myself into thinking it is okay not to finish the job in hand today . . . it will still be there tomorrow.  :)

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Suzi Franks:  I think if it is something you can picture and it makes you 'tingle' inside at the thought of the end result, you don't need any more motivation than that.  But, then I am a stubborn old fool who doesn't like anything to get the better of me.  :)

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Suzi Franks:  I presume by accountable you mean for achieving and setting my goals?  Someone once said to me:  "You can fool others, but NEVER yourself."  I guess I always have lived by this principle

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more successs if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Suzi Franks:  Of course, who gets a kick out of bad habits?  Also, is a bad habit a thing to set your sights on?

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward?

Suzi Franks:  Like you would never believe . . . that sense of I DID IT . . . the best!  :)

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Suzi Franks:  Being the person I am and seeing most of the world along the way.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Suzi Franks:  Never give up.  If it truly is a dream, you will find a way to make it a reality.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  IResolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.  View my 2009-2010 Health & Happiness Tapestry by clicking through Daily Resolve Photo-Resolutions.

Kim M. Simpson - January 18, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - January 18, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionisa And Montclair, New Jersey Writer, Laurie Lico Albanese, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Laurie Lico Albanese was the tenth Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

LAURIE LICO ALBANESE REFLECTS

When Kim first asked for my 2010 New Year's Resolutions I thought it would be easy to list and describe my goals.  My vocation is my profession, and my ambitions feel worthy and attainable, albeit a little bit more difficult in a rough economy!

I made up my mind when I was nine that I wanted to be a writer.  At 24 I published my first book.  At 40 I published my first novel.  I really like setting goals, breaking them down into daily activities, setting the course and then steering on, even when the sky darkens and seas become rocky.  If I have no goals, I feel adrift.  When I am striving to make myself a better person and the world a more beautiful place, I feel energized and confident.

This year I am continuing MyBigWalk - walking every day for an hour and sharing the journey on my Blog - revising my novel manuscript, deepening my Yoga practice, and pledging to develop a stronger tennis forehand.  I am going to continue teaching memoir writing, as part of my deep conviction that each person has the right to tell his or her own life story and should be given the chance to do that in the most personal and expressive way available to them.

My key professional goal is to place my new novel, The Hundred Year Storm, with my "dream publisher."  This is a specific publisher, where there is an editor who has read my novel and expressed an interest in acquiring it. He and I have become acquainted on the phone; he has described the elements of the manuscript that he would like me to address; and I have begun making revisions accordingly.  Best of all, I had already begun making the changes before he and I spoke.  Since I often find the greatest success comes when my goals are in harmony with the message the universe is sending, I feel really good and hopeful about this project.  I also know that should this publisher pass on the novel, I will finish my revisions in a timely manner and my agent will take the manuscript out to a new set of editors.  I have found that my understanding of the publishing world, coupled with my skill at writing and editing, building relationships, and putting my heart and mind into the story and characters I create, have made it possible for me to write and sell my books - including the unusual and ersatz unremarkable memoir in verse - Blue Suburbia - which was recently touted as a unique find for readers in USA Today!

These goals are a pleasure for me to set.  They don't feel so much like personal challenges, but rather like reasons to wake up, get dressed, and start each day with hope, vigor, and purpose.

* * * * * * * * * *

The part of this year's resolution that I am dreading is the part that pertains to my personal life.  In the past year it has become increasingly obvious that there are people whom I love who do not share my understanding of love, loyalty, and the importance of family bonds.  These are sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins who have found it easier to make up stories and lies about me and to break away from me, my husband, and our lovely children, than to put in the honest effort it might take to find out the truth in given hurtful situations, and remedy them accordingly.

I have tried for many years to give of myself in the hope of mending these broken relationships.  But each effort was met by further ridicule, rejection, and ultimately by attack and injury.  It may sound like a simple "no brainer" resolution:  turn away from people who hurt you . . . don't let yourself be taken advantage of, don't let people walk all over you, insult your children, or ignore your feelings.  But when it comes to family, and you believe that family is an important network of love and support, it is sometimes hard to open your eyes and see what is really happening:  betrayal, alcoholism, dishonesty, rejection, ingratitude, and cruelty.

But I vow, this year, to strive for the serenity to accept what I cannot change, the courage to change what I cannot accept, and the wisdom to know the difference . . . even as I keep the same optimism, good cheer, and steady course that has taken me this far in life, and helped me to build a loving family in the embrace of those who are generous, welcoming, happy, and healthy:  my friends, my community of writers and editors, my husband, my in-laws, and my children. 

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 31, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 31, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionisa And Nashville Artist And Creative Consultant, Amanda Wyler, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Amanda Wyler was the ninth Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

AMANDA WYLER REFLECTS

With December 31 just days away, I can't help but look back and evaluate the past year - 2009 has been an amazing adventure.  I have challenged and pushed myself in things I once upon a time thought   impossible.  Sure, I have made mistakes and fallen (sometimes flat on my face!), but the important thing is that I made the effort to get up, dust myself off, and try again until I got it right.  In doing that alone, I have learned so much - not only about the situations at-hand, but also about myself.  I have learned how I react to things and what it takes to really succeed:  having a clear definition of goals, determining methods of motivation, learning perseverance, and enjoying success.

Whether having accomplished a long list of goals, or just embarking on a goal-setting journey, it is incredibly important to take time for self-reflection.  I am choosing to approach 2010 as a stepping stone - something to build on top of my personal and professional victories of the past year.  My first step in doing this is creating a tangible list with answers to this simple question:  "Specifically, how can I take my goals one step further?"  Thinking on a small scale keeps me from feeling overwhelmed.  Slow and steady wins the race!

Naturally, once a goal of any size is created, it needs motivation to be realized.  No one is going to stand over you with a whip until you finish it - and for good reason!  A journey to a goal should be enjoyed (though, it is normal to experience some growing pains along the way!), and the journey's direction is up to the individual who dreamed it in the first place.  This is where self-reflection comes into play.  I know what makes me tick, what excites me and what motivates me . . . and I use it to my advantage!  Motivation is the counterpart to meeting and keeping goals.  Believe anything is possible.  If you believe, you will achieve.

Furthermore, the old adage, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again," may be overused, but it is true.  The part people fail to mention is, when "trying again," rarely try the same method twice.  It is important to get creative and think outside the box.  Don't be afraid to experiment with ideas until you get it right.

Finally, what an amazing feeling it is to look up one day after all the baby steps have been taken and realize you have reached your ultimate destination.  I will never forget that feeling:  Success!  I believe there is a season for everything and after accomplishing a goal, there should be a season of celebration!

Life is all about cycles and to constantly evolve and be a better person, I anticipate each year will always bring new steps to take toward new goals.  Before embarking on a New Year's journey, the most important thing is to take time out to reward yourself for a job well done.

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 28, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 28, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista And Virginia Teacher, Artist And Writer, Betsy DiJulio, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Betsy DiJulio was the eighth Resolutionista' [creator of TheBloomingPlatter and TheBloomingPalette] inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

BETSY DIJULIO REFLECTS

I don't necessarily believe that things happen for a reason or to teach us a lesson.  In fact, I don't know what I believe in that regard.  But I do believe that it is our responsibility to find the lessons and make the meaning count in all that occurs.

In early December, my husband and I attended a dinner party after which I woke up filled with the realization that, embodied in that magical gathering of ten friends, was virtually everything that I value; and I resolved to infuse them into every day of the New Year, no matter how full I allow my life to become.

The weekend of the party, we happened to have house guests:  longtime friends who have moved to the East Coast from Nashville, where we use to live.  So, the convivial gathering included people who have entered our lives anywhere between 25 years ago and that very night; some were business relationships that grew into deep friendships.  I was reminded how fortunate we are that, as we approach middle age, we know the joy of decades-old friendships, while the possibility for new ones is still very much alive.

We all gathered in one of the host's tiny 1920's cabin nestled along a lovely lake shore.  Charming and cozy on the most ordinary of days, it is enchanting during the holidays.  On this evening, it sparkled and gleamed with firelight, candlelight and lamplight glittering and reflecting off of beautiful objects and surfaces, carefully chosen, but without the slightest hint of fussiness.  Seductive aromas wafted from the tiny but hip kitchen, a recent remodel, warm and inviting.  The hosts, a fairly new couple, had planned, cooked and orchestrated the most beautiful Thai meal of several courses, one of which was accompanied by Saki sipped out of cedar boxes brought by one of the guests.  Each beautiful dish was thoughtfully chosen to accommodate the preferences of vegetarians, vegans and omnivores and was presented with impeccable but, apparently, unstudied timing.  The meal concluded with an extra-special vegan cake I had concocted, as it was one of the guest's - a dear friend's - birthday.  Conversation and laughter flowed easily from the personal to the political to the philosophical.

When such a party winds to a close, there is a tendency not to want to break the spell and go home.  But waiting at our house was the most astonishing new dog we had adopted that very day from the SPCA.  Joe and I had lost our beloved 16-year-old dog, Webster, a couple weeks prior and I had been very blue until the appearance of Minnie.  While her arrival into our household brought with it a little stress, no a lot of stress - we have two other dogs, one weighing in at 160 pounds, who were not happy with the new addition - by the next day, they were, remarkably, a pack.  So I was reminded of several things:  that from loss arises new and unimaginable possibility; that great rewards come disguised as intense challenges; and that as wonderful as it is to be absorbed by the love, light and laughter of other people's homes, the home that I share with Joe and our canines is the best of all places to return.

I Resolve To . . . Spend 2010:

• Nurturing friendships, old and new.
• Forging a happy union between the often strange bedfellows of work and pleasure.
• Engaging in meaningful conversation, but laughing a lot.
• Creating beauty and goodness around myself and others.
• Preparing and sharing nutritious food that honors my guests and respects the earth and its creatures.
• Reveling in the most minute of details because, of course, they matter most.
• Embracing loss.
• Finding the reward in every challenge.
• Delighting in the love of my two-legged and four-legged family members in the home that we have created beneath an umbrella that figuratively reaches out to embrace our extended families.

- Happy New Year! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 27, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 27, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista And Santa Monica, California Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Robert Maurer, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Robert Maurer, PhD was the sixth Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

BOB MAURER REFLECTS

What a year!  The challenge for me this year was to look for the good, for the beauty in all things.  With the financial crisis, what passed for a healthcare debate, with so many poor and hungry, it was a huge effort to remain hopeful and positive about our journey on this planet.  I have tried each day to find moments of beauty, to smile at people, and look for opportunities to be kind and generous.  I have used kaizen every day to make small improvements and to celebrate the efforts of others to be their best.  Some days were easier than others!

I have made improvements this year in my health . . . drinking more water, exercising more consistently, and getting more sleep.  The improvements were small, but all heading in the right direction.

The research on New Year's Resolutions is remarkable.  The average American makes the same resolution seven years in a row and then often gives it up!  I keep my resolutions small.  I resolve to look for small moments to compliment others.  I resolve to pray for our leaders and for those who have power over the lives of others.  I use prayer to work on my tendency to judge others.  When I start to be critical in my thoughts, I turn it into a prayer for their wisdom and peace.  I resolve to be more grateful each day for the abundance in my life.  I do this by keeping a journal, and each day, I write out and answer the question, "What am I grateful for today?"

I frequently look at the words Mother Teresa used to explain how she lived her days:

"Small things with great love. 

It is not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.

And it is not how much you give, but how much love you put in the giving.

To God there is nothing small."

Wishing you a healthy and joy-filled New Year . . .

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista And Indiana Artist And Writer, Angela Reinhart, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Angela Reinhart was the fifth Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

ANGELA REINHART REFLECTS

My creative energies overflow to my family life, sometimes to a fault.  One of my greatest challenges the past several years has been BALANCE.  Family, home and work all seem to run a close first every  
day.  It settles on me that I am trying to do too much.  If I focus my efforts in more specific areas I may find more prosperous avenues.

With a bit of apprehension, 2009 saw the opening of my Etsy Shop.  There was a renewed interest in my art, new and custom pieces.  Etsy is a great community, bringing the artist to the client through their own online shops and the client to the artist through Alchemy.  Over those first several months the activity showed wonderful promise.

Combining home life and my art is the highlight of my transition.  My shop moved from busy, to slow, to a complete halt - in an effort to balance things at home.  Entrepreneuring takes on a whole new definition when I begin weighing in all my priorities.  Over 2009 I remained determined toward my goals.  A decent income through my art and writing honestly seemed to be just around the corner, just being in the right place at the right time.  Right?  Time will tell.

My allegiance to my professional memberships:  Society of Decorative Painters, American Gourd Society, Indiana Gourd Society, and Ohio Gourd Society, has been vital to my personal and professional growth.  The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators will again be on my list for 2010.  The various memberships seem to test the budget at times.  I believe they are vital to connecting both professionally and personally.

The completion of my writing course through the Institute Of Children's Literature has been a rewarding experience.  As I move into 2010, my writing assignments will be seen in a whole new light.  I resolve to hone these pieces and begin professionally submitting them with confidence.  I am proud to say I am a writer.

My first magazine craft tutorial came in just under the wire for 2009 with the publication of 'Icy Globes' in the winter issue of The Gourd Magazine by The American Gourd Society.  At the close of 2009, I am happy to say I have made progress in achieving my goals.  On a fitness note, I am bringing 2009 to a grand finale with a commitment to my health:  A '50 Day Holiday Challenge' brought to my attention by "Burn The Fat, Feed The Muscle" author, Tom Venuto.  So far I am down by six pounds and four pounds away from my 'Christmas Gift' goal.  Another amazing 2009 event was the birth of my first granddaughter, one-year-old this month.  A real blessing.

New Year Resolutions are as close as my handy pocket notebook and my calendars.  They await the gold stars to help me maintain my momentum.  Every step, big and small, needs to be recognized.  Every step takes me closer to my passions.  Resolutions for 2010 include:

• Article submissions - (2) monthly
• Short story submissions - (1) bi-monthly
• Book endeavors - (3) for 2010
• Wall hanging exhibition piece - by Spring
• Barn Quilt - (1) Summer and (1) Autumn
• Art for Etsy Shop & Retail Connections - bi-monthly
• Art competitions - (3) for 2010
• Society of Decorative Painters' National Conference - Kansas, May 2010 (attend in person, or by art)
• Heartland Of Ohio Tole Convention - August 2010, attend and take a class (submit a project to teach for 2011
• MSN Group/Fencepost Promises, Yahoo Groups/AFReinhartART Studio - three shared projects over the year; progress of current art and writings; post information on available work
• Possibly complete Degree Program:  Bachelor of Science in Education or Associate Degree in Commercial Art
• Continue portfolio location online:  www.artwanted.com/artisme
• SDP Blog - monthly
• Writers Groups - weekly
• Family Traditions - weekly
• Recreation - something special monthly
• Playtime - fun weekly!
• Reading, Good Eating Habits, Fitness, And Remember To Pamper Myself!

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 25, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 25, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista And Iowa Artist, Designer, And Creator Of The Lunchbox Project, Lisa Orgler, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Lisa Orgler was the fourth Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

LISA ORGLER REFLECTS

I love painting.  I love designing.  I love writing.  So I started a Blog on January 1, 2009 with a hefty goal . . . to create one food-related illustration each day paired with a few thoughts on The Lunch Box Project.  Here I am, almost a year later, amazed that I have stuck with it.  This journey has opened my eyes to the breadth of the Internet, the power of social networking, and it has ignited my entrepreneurial spirit.  It also has given me a peek into a world that I feel is now within reach . . . one where I can paint, design and write full-time.

When Kim asked me to write this, I began to contemplate the next adventurous steps.  What is my plan to paint, design and write every day?  I have laid out my personal goals below.  Some are simple, while others are lofty.

1. Paint every day.  This somewhat simple goal has taught me that discipline is key to achieving success.  Painting daily not only strengthens my skills, but also challenges me to do continual 'idea' research for freshness.
2. Stay focused.  Before this year, I was all over the place with my illustrations . . . from flowers to animals to food to gardens.  I plan to continue focusing on foods in hopes of developing new ideas and designs in the foodie arena.  I even made my Etsy Shop more focused recently to reflect this goal.  The irony, is that my expertise is in garden design and not cooking (I am horrible).  I have found that focusing on something outside my comfort zone has challenged my creativity and skills to higher levels.
3. Expand my Circle.  The Internet has shown me how accessible the world is today.  Prior to this past year I barely sold outside my state and now I am shipping paintings to Indonesia and Australia.  I hope to continue developing my marketing techniques and testing new ones.  I also wish to look into wholesale to see where that can take my work.
4. Create a better website.  I have my Blog and recently started a newsletter, but I feel my ideas need to be pulled together better.  Currently, I am working with a talented graphic designer to help me achieve this goal.  Look for that in 2010.
5. Take my art to the next level.  How?  I would love to write books and design products with my illustrations.  I currently am hashing out a couple of foodie book ideas.  My challenge is to make them fun, yet informational.  After the first couple of books, maybe I can design tableware and textiles.  Who knows!
6. Expand my newsletter.  I try to keep my newsletter focused on other's talents . . . whether they create great recipes, take fabulous food photos, or make beautiful food art.  My next step is to incorporate food floral arranging.  I always have enjoyed checking out other's art and now I can share that with my readers.
7. Sharing my art in new ways.  I love sharing my art on The Lunch Box Project daily, sharing it through free monthly foodie calendars in my newsletter, and through giveaways here and there.  I hope to continue thinking of new, innovative ways to share it, so people can continue to bring it into their lives.

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 24, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 24, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista And Seattle Area Multi-Media Artist And Author, Jan Coad, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  'Jan Coad was the third 'Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

JAN COAD REFLECTS

I don't make New Year's Resolutions.  Instead I set goals and make baby steps to check off my progress toward goals.  Here is 2009 - What A Year!  Look Out 2010 . . .

January - MAJOR GOAL for 2009 to become published.  I had participated in writers groups and shared success and rejection.  I made a friend who enjoyed editing as her hobby - she agreed to edit  my book and also shared that her publisher was now open for queries.

February - I queried my editor's publisher = my first publishing contract. ' Why Don't They Come With Directions' will be published in August of 2010.  I also met a friend and we did a tour of New York City and Washington, D.C.

March - I worked on completing my book and on my many art forms (to sell).  I also began planting seedlings indoors for hopes of a garden.

April - Completed my book, sent to editor and began working on IRS 501(c)3 status for my nonprofit, The Lavendar Door Foundation.  Also, one of my contest entries paid off:  I won.

May - One dream came true:  I swam with dolphins in Florida.  I kissed a dolphin and liked it!

June - I began writing my Memoir, DREAM, LAUGH, LIVE, LOVE.  It is my experience being raised without a proper diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome.  I began another dream, to eat better by growing my own food.  We began enjoying the 'veggies of our labor'.

July - I wrote my lists:  Things I am GREATFUL for and my Dream's List.

August - I began chronicling my garden story and resolved to eat out less and began visiting Farmers Markets.  My new book idea began to form.

September - I put together an outline for my new book idea and completed all the research and photography.  I resolved to do canning and preserve the fresh vegetables and fruits from the Farmers Markets.  I resolved to, and canned, more than 200 dill pickles, six varieties of jams/jellies, syrups, ice cream toppings, peaches, pears, and cinnamon apple sauce.

October - My MAJOR GOAL changed to fighting for my son's rights; he was taken from class, questioned by the Principal and then the Sheriff before we were called.  My mantra was "Sheriffs Police Officers, School Districts, Oh My!"  We wrote a letter to the Superintendant, School Board Members, Principals, School Psychologists, etc.  We also hired an advocate.

November - Still no resolution to the school nightmare, more baby steps:  Fight for home education and tutoring, and a safety plan for when he returns to school.  The MAJOR GOAL through the holidays became 'keeping the peace in the household'.  I resolved to get away:  We spent three nights in Las Vegas and got two more items off my 'Dreams List':  Visit and drive across the Hoover Dam and visit the Grand Canyon.  I received my second publishing contract for a series of books:  Connecting Food, Farm And You:  40 Farmers Markets In 40 Days.

December - MAJOR GOAL - Write, Write, and Write!

2010 Plans:

• Final edits on memoir and query for publication.
• Market my book:  Plan August Blog tours and book signings at Borders and Barnes & Noble.
• Create marketing materials, calendars, t-shirts, bookmarks, postcards . . .
• Blog:  LavendarAlpaca.
• Complete writing first Farmers Market Book.
• Complete the research, visits and photographs for second book in series.
• Double the size of home garden.
• Continue to enjoy the canned-preserved fruits and vegetables through the winter.
• Get nonprofit up and running, along with youth art retreats.
• Collaborate with other Resolutionistas in my nonprofit.
• Speak at Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meetings and teacher in-services about Autism and Asperger's Syndrome.
• Spread the message that differences aren't bad, they are just different, and promote acceptance.
• Write, Write And Write!

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 23, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 23, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & San Francisco Bay Area Slow-Cookerer, Stephanie O'Dea, Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  Stephanie O'Dea was the second 'Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

STEPHANIE O'DEA REFLECTS

I have always been fond of New Year's Resolutions.  I love the feeling of a blank slate each year, and each month with the turn of the calendar page.  I have little lists all over the house with yearly, quarterly, monthly, weekly, and daily goals.  This past year didn't turn out the way I imagined, but I learned a lot about what to do when personal goals need to take a back seat.  This was/is a valuable lesson, and something I am glad I experienced, even though I wasn't so happy at the time.

This year, 2009, started with a few ideas:  I was going to keep it simple and only resolved to stop biting my nails when I was nervous, complete Jillian Michaels' 30 Day Shred, and start a garden gnome collection.  I am happy to report that I did stop biting my nails and I am getting used to typing with nails that reach past my fingertips.  I rewarded myself a few times with professional manicures, but prefer to tend to them on my own.  I was able to get 23 days in a row of the 30 Day Shred under my belt before I twisted my knee and needed to take a few weeks off of exercise.  When I happily learned that one of my (unannounced) goals worked and we were pregnant with baby #3, all exercising took a back seat to morning sickness.  I have accumulated four garden gnomes over the past year and each one makes me smile.  I am hoping the word continues to spread amongst my family members and I get a few more gifts this Holiday Season.

I was able to finish writing and editing 'Make It Fast, Cook It Slow:  The Big Book Of Everyday Slow Cooking', my first cookbook based on my 2008 New Year's Resolution to use my slow cooker every day.  I am quite pleased with the way that it turned out and am proud of this accomplishment.

I was not able to complete my November goal of National Novel Writing Month.  I got about nine days into the project, then stopped.  I am still a bit annoyed at myself, because I hate giving up, but I did feel a huge sense of relief once I decided to let this one go.  Being pregnant and constantly tired was taking its' toll and the kids hated having me on the computer for so much of the day.  I was neglecting chores and other responsibilities and it just wasn't a good fit at the time.  I was able to achieve a nice outline and character development and hope to pick this back up when the opportunity arises.

My day-to-day 'To Do Lists' and goals were mostly discarded this year and it has been a hard lesson for me to let go and just do the bare necessities to get through the day.  I like keeping busy, and I like jamming my days with lots of activity and accomplishments, but found that I really did need to slow down and listen to my body more this pregnancy than I did with my other two.  If I was able to answer email, empty the dishwasher, and start a slow-cooker, it was a good day, whereas in previous years that was about an hour or two's worth of work.

I am greatly looking forward to my first cup of strong coffee after this baby is born!

The coming year, 2010, will be rung in with friends and family, and I am looking forward to a New Year of getting to know our new little one and counting our blessings.  I do have a new writing project in the works that is due in April, so the first quarter will be busy, but a good busy - I look forward to the productivity.

At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is family, and although crossing items off a list is tremendously satisfying, taking the time to put work aside to cuddle on the couch is what soothes the soul and what makes a person whole.

Have a fantastic 2010.  It is going to be wonderful, I can tell.

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 22, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 22, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers Takes A Look Back At 2009 And A Peek Forward At 2010!

In 2009, I launched an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I wanted to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments.  Trish Ayers was the first 'Resolutionista' inducted into the I Resolve To . . . Hall Of Fame and the inspirational series continues in 2010!

TRISH AYERS REFLECTS

This year evaporated like water in a bowl sitting outside in the summer sun.  One moment it was January and now it is December.  As I reflect on this year I realize how blessed I am that it has been filled with abundance and joy. 

I resolved to focus time and energy on my relationships with people.  My husband and I began having monthly dates and watched some great movies together.  I have been fortunate to see my grandson at least every three months.   I wish it was more often, but I am blessed to see him this often since we live quite a ways from his home.  Both of my daughters have filled my life with joy.  I have re-connected with college friends, made appointments to be with fellow writers, and spent a lovely holiday with my parents this summer.  I will wrap up the year with gatherings with family and friends, as we celebrate Christmas.

My writing career is moving along quite nicely.  One of my essays was published in the anthology 'Christmas Traditions', edited by Helen Szymanski and a book review is slated to appear in the winter issue of the journal 'Now & Then':  The Appalachian Magazine.  I wrote a full-length play and already have begun to edit it.  Two of my plays were selected as finalists in this year's Heartland Play Contests.  The Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which I founded and lead, has had public readings of two collaborative plays 'Money Blue$' and 'Certain Choices'.

Our home has needed some major redecorating and we began the process this summer.  We transformed a room into our dining room and only have to paint it and find homes for items in a few boxes.  We were able to re-purpose furniture to create a buffet.  My husband built a kitchen table we designed together and we are in the process of building a full closet in our bedroom.  The infrastructure is in place, so it is usable now; we just have to finish with moldings and paint.

We have been working on being in control of our finances rather than our finances controlling us.  By thinking outside the box and careful budgeting we are on target with our financial goals this year.

Self-care is another area I resolved to focus on this year.  As a person with a chronic health condition, self-care is important.   There have been a few set-backs, but thanks to understanding my condition, great doctors, a helpful husband, the right medicines, and a positive attitude, I have avoided a hospital admission!

What is life without adventure?  This summer we were blessed to see the wild horses of Assateague and Chincoteague.  It turned out to be a fun family vacation, which I won't forget.

I am working on my resolves for 2010.  Now it is time to collage these resolves, as one means to put them inside my head and heart, so next year will be filled with as many, or more, celebrations.

- Happy 2010! -

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

Kim M. Simpson - December 21, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

Kim M. Simpson - December 21, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Montclair, New Jersey Writer, Laurie Lico Albanese

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Laurie Lico Albanese, a Montclair New Jersey writer, in my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Laurie, who lives 12 miles west of Manhattan, wears a variety of creative hats:  journalist, author, blogger, memoirist, and writing teacher.  In 2009, she made a pledge to walk for an hour every day, and to keep a Blog about it.  The result is MyBigWalk.  She says "it's a lot of fun."  Laurie is the author of Lynelle By The Sea, which was optioned for film and translated into several languages; Blue Suburbia:  Almost A Memoir was an Independent Bookseller's Best Book Of The Year selection in 2004; and The Miracles Of Prato, which she co-authored with her friend, Laura Morowitz, is coming out in paperback in January.  [UPDATE:  Read Laurie's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Laurie Albanese:  I am always working toward a clear goal - generally several at once.  Right now, I am walking every day for a year (MyBigWalk), and I am polishing up a new fiction manuscript.  I believe that the more clear and specific your goals, the more likely you are to work toward them and achieve them.  My philosophy about life is best summarized by these words from Emerson, which I have lived by since 1983:  "If one advances confidently in the direction of one's dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours."

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Laurie Albanese:  This year I made a pledge to walk for an hour every day, and to keep a Blog about it.  The result is MyBigWalk - and it is a lot of fun.  This week I am walking with Gretchen Rubin, creator of the Happiness Project.  Above all else I am a writer.  I wrote my first poem when I was seven, and never stopped putting pen to paper.  To be a writer requires daily dedication and practice.  I currently am revising my newest fiction manuscript, which my agent adores.  My goal is to polish this book so that the voice and plot are organic and compelling, then to sell the novel to an energetic editor, see it well-published and well-reviewed, and reach a wide reading audience.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality?

Laurie Albanese:  Setting a specific goal, working toward it, and living each day with that goal in mind is essential to me.  I read and write every day.  I read like a writer.  I teach writing.  I try to be generous with my talents and skills.  I believe in Karma.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Laurie Albanese:  The world is full of people who are trying to publish books, and the publishing industry is contracting.  This is making it hard to sell books that are not pot-boilers.  I stay focused on craft and the daily practice of craft, because there is only one way to live:  A day at a time, creating the best day possible beginning each morning.  How you live each day is how you live your whole life.  I try to remember that always.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Laurie Albanese:  I bring myself to my desk and dive right in.  I don't give in to the indulgence of negativity.  And if I do momentarily feel negative, I go to the desk anyway.  I approach MyBigWalk the same way:  Even if I don't feel like it, I do it.  It is like going to work.  You don't have to go to work every day with a big smile on your face, but you do have to show up and do your best work possible.  I take pride in being a responsible and upbeat member of society within my family, my community, my circle of friends, the writing community, the publishing world, and with my students.  Also, if I don't feel like working I always ask myself, "What would your rather be doing?  Lying in bed?  Skipping the day?  Missing your life?!"  That generally gets me going.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Laurie Albanese:  I measure my days in terms of hours spent writing.  If I haven't been at my desk writing for three or four hours a day, I am not satisfied.  My internal writer keeps me going even when my extroverted self - the person who might prefer to be out playing tennis, or shopping, or going to lunch - veers off track.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more successs if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Laurie Albanese:  To me, that seems self-evident.  But then again, my goals and my passions are the same.  I couldn't imagine making a goal that wasn't in line with my passion:  such a goal would seem doomed to fail.  A personal goal really needs to be about something you are devoted to, believe is possible, and centered on something you love doing.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Laurie Albanese:  If you reach your goal, yes.  If not, I think it can lead to frustration and disappointment.  That is why I think it is important to have goals that you can reach incrementally:  I want to be a published novelist, so I will work every day toward improving my craft.  That brings me back to Emerson - ". . . advance confidently in the direction of your dreams, and you will one day reach your goal."  But the goal can't be the ring you're reaching for.  I think it has to become an organic part of your life.  Your goals should be in line with who you are, or who you see yourself becoming.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Laurie Albanese:  Each published work is a proud accomplishment.  Writing The Miracles of Prato with my best friend, and traveling twice to Italy while we worked on it, was spectacular.  I learned more about Renaissance Art than I ever thought possible, and was able to bring my husband and children to Florence for the first time.  Also, it was a partnership and I adore working in a partnership.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Laurie Albanese:  Work toward it each day.  Remember that you chose your dream because it involves something you love doing each day.  Bring yourself to dream patiently, but consistently.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress: I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  Are you ready to get moving?  Complete my new I Resolve To . . . Worsheet and make the I Resolve To . . . Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worsheet & Promise.  There are three weeks left between today and the New Year . . . that is plenty of time to get the fire burning and momentum churning in a forward trajectory toward 2010 dreams, resolutions and daily goals!

Kim M. Simpson - December 9, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - December 9, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Nashville Graphic Artist & Creative Consultant, Amanda Wyler

 

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Amanda Wyler, a self-employed Nashville, Tennessee Graphic Artist and Creative Consultant, in my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Amanda is a twenty-something musician-turned-designer who believes her purpose in life is to do just that.  Whether it is through music, art, design, or even blogging, she says she strives to encourage others and make this world a little brighter, one smile at a time.  Amanda's latest venture is her Blog, 'Amanda Lives Well', which celebrates her 70-pound weight loss and focuses on living a balanced lifestyle.  Amanda says her favorite quote is by German Composer, Robert Schumann:  "To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist."  [UPDATE:  Read Amanda's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Amanda Wyler:  My resolutions always seem to start around the New Year whether that is intentional or not.  My birthday also falls at the end of the year, so self-reflection around that time comes very natural.  It is a prefect season to reflect on the past year's successes and failures and appreciate each of them for the lessons they taught me.  From there, I set new resolutions and set in motion a "plan of action."  That's the most important part:  following through.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Amanda Wyler:  Art in all its forms has been a lifelong passion of mine.  About two years ago, a huge dream of mine to begin working for myself as a Graphic Designer came true when I went out on my own.  Realizing goals can be scary, but I find pushing through fear is waht makes you grow as a person.  A newfound passion of mine is health and nutrition . . . and cooking!  My current goal is to continue educating myself and discover ways of integrating new fruits and vegetbables (and exercises!) in my life.  I tend to get bored if I stick in the same routine for a long period of time, so I am striving to continually keep things fresh.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality?

Amanda Wyler:  You must first and foremost have faith in yourself that you CAN do whatever you set out to do.  Also, no goal is too small - you have to start somewhere!  I think it is really important to break down bigger goals into much smaller ones.  They won't seem near as intimidating and before you know it, by tackling all the small goals, you will have achieved the big goal in the process.  Accountability is also important.  When I first set out to lose weight, I voiced my goals to my family and best friends.  Their support and encouragement made all the difference.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Amanda Wyler:  In my business, I occasionally fall victim to comparing myself to other designers.  Then I remember that everyone is unique with their own skill-sets and talents.  I just have to keep reminding myself of that and strive to do the very best job I can.  In my journey to better health, obstacles are everywhere!  The important thing is to remember that deprivation will get you nowhere.  Moderation and balance is the key.  And planning ahead!  Lots and lots of planning.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Amanda Wyler:  I am a self-proclaimed computer geek, so blogging has been a great tool for me.  I love the interactivity and exchange of ideas with users being able to leave comments on my Blog and being able to visit other Blogs and leave comments on theirs.  Even tweeing back and forth on Twitter . . . it is a whole underground support system that I had no idea even existed. 

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable?  

Amanda Wyler:  Again, blogging is great for this!  In fact, that is why I started Amanda Lives Well in the first place.  I began my weight-loss journey on SparkPeople.Com and gained a really firm foundation of knowledge and support there.  At my 50-pound loss, I decided I wanted to start a Blog when I reached my 100-pound loss goal.  But later I thought, "why wait?"  I am still 30-pounds shy of my original goal, but between the tracking tools of SparkPeople.Com and the support of my fellow bloggers, I am confident I will get there.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Amanda Wyler:  ABSOLUTELY.  A list of bad habits will only get you down.  And who knows?  Focusing on the good might make one forget about the bad in the process.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Amanda Wyler:  Pursuing a passion certainly brings excitement.  I always feel a sense of purpose and direction when I embark on a new resolution and I find joy in that.  For me though, the accomplishment and reward comes only after reaching a goal.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Amanda Wyler:  I have several!  This year, 2009 has been a wild ride and I have loved every minute of it.  The progress I have made in bettering my health has completely transformed not just my image, but all areas of my life.  My confidence has skyrocketed and I am more willing to take chances and own leadership.  I was nominated for 'Nashville's Top Under 30' this past summer and I have become the lead designer for the Nashville Junior Chamber.  This journey has made me really appreciate life and the people in it.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Amanda Wyler:  Life is short!  Whether personally or professionally, figure out what you love to do and do it.  One of my favorite quotes by Henry David Thoreau says, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.  Live the life you've always imagined."  Write that on a post-it and stick it somewhere you'll read it every day.  Believe and have faith in yourself.  Your resolution is attainable!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress: I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  Are you ready to get moving?  Complete my new I Resolve To . . . Worsheet and make the I Resolve To . . . Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worsheet & Promise.  There are 53 days left between today and the New Year . . . that is plenty of time to get the fire burning and momentum churning in a forward trajectory toward dreams, resolutions and daily goals!

Kim M. Simpson - November 9, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - November 9, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Virginia Teacher, Artist & Writer Betsy DiJulio

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Betsy DiJulio, who wears a number of creative hats - High School Art Teacher, Artist, Freelance Writer, Blogger, Food Stylist, and Columnist - in my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Betsy is a full-time National Board Certified Art Teacher (M.A., Ed.S.) at Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  She was chosen as the Princess Anne 2009-2010 Teacher Of The Year before being chosen as the 2009-2010 citywide Teacher Of The Year for the Virginia Beach Public School District.  As a part-time freelance food/lifestyles/arts writer, and sometimes vegan cooking instructor, Betsy has won several national recipe contests.  She writes 'The Veggie Table', a monthly vegan column for the Virginian-Pilot Newspaper (an animal lover, animal rights supporter and SPCA volunteer, Betsy is a longtime vegetarian turned vegan).  Betsy and her husband have been married since 1990 and share their home with a pack of beloved canines.

If you would like to get an online taste of her wonderful recipes surf over to her fabulous Blog, 'The Blooming Platter'.  On her Blog she describes her 2009 New Year Resolution this way:  "My 2009 New Year's resolution was to start this blog as a way of "giving back" to all of the wonderful vegan bloggers and other cooks/chefs out there who have inspired me, taught me so much, and continue to be incredibly generous. I finally got my courage up to "plant the seeds," so please join me frequently as my resolution takes root."   [I must admit, I am big fan of the seeds Betsy planted - her resolution has definitely taken root the past year!]  [UPDATE:  Read Betsy's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Betsy DiJulio:  I've been known to make New Year's Resolutions, but not always, and not always in January.  For teachers, the "New Year" is September.  However, my Blog, The Blooming Platter, was the result of a January 2009 New Year's Resolution.  Beyond that, though, like most people in the world, I am employed in a goal-oriented environment.  As an art teacher, in particular, I live one of my central dreams and passions every day with my wonderful students.  But in all aspects of my life - I have a number of other passions - I set daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, etc. goals to keep me moving forward.  They aren't rigid, but I am very serious about them.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Betsy DiJulio:  I was talking about this with a professor-friend recently - that our so-called passions are part of "one creative flow," as he called it.  Other than my friends and family, about whom I am passionate, I am completely devoted to my lifetime/longtime interests in teaching students through visual art, as well as my own art and writing about art.  I am also deeply committed to the other areas about which I write as a freelancer/blogger:  vegan food, animal welfare, a greener environment, and small business development, especially the so-called creative fields.  I have concurrent short-term and long-term goals related to each of them.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality?

Betsy DiJulio:  I don't know what this means exactly, or how it works - or if it works, as opposed to seeming to work - but I use my own home-grown brand of "visualization."  The "if you can see it, you can be it" approach.  I'm also fairly relentless about achieving success, even on a small level, and that's the 'ole "if at first you don't succeed . . . " approach.  Plus, I am completely uninhibited about asking people how to do things better - I have no pride in that regard - and I hope others are uninhibited about asking me, as it is my pleasure to share anything I know.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Betsy DiJulio:  My primary obstacle is probably the same as everyone's:  the resource of time.  I don't know how to overcome it other than to probably work too much some of the time; but I'm also efficient, high-energy, focused and organized, at least most of the time.  Okay, and I'm a little - maybe a lot - Type A.  I'm always thinking ahead and that helps.  Dog walking is a great time for planning/strategizing.  But I try to be "present in the moment," at least some of the time. :)

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Betsy DiJulio:  I think it's important to start out that way, yet be realistic.  I also tend not to place all of my eggs in once basket just because I pursue a lot of interests.  However, that tendency serves another  inadvertent purpose in that when things aren't working out as I'd hoped in one area, they are likely to be perking along in others.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable?  

Betsy DiJulio:  My husband once told a mutual friend that I'm the most driven person he knows.  I don't know about that, but I do hold myself to a higher standard than I hold most everyone else, yet I don't think I take myself too seriously. 

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Betsy DiJulio:  I can't imagine pouring myself into something I didn't enjoy, but I think we have to be cognizant of our "bad habits," and work to change them, or minimize their negative effect.  They're not called "bad" for nothing. :)

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Betsy DiJulio:  Absolutely.  But I think it's rare that such a pursuit isn't also layered with other emotions at times:  anxiety, doubt, disappointment, and the like.  But those "negative" emotions aren't necessarily all negative.  Sometimes they are the impetus to keep pushing.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Betsy DiJulio:  I guess it would have to be being chosen, after a rigorous selection process - and only 4.5 years of teaching - as my large district's Teacher Of The Year for 2009-2010.  It's certainly the most tangible and the most public.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Betsy DiJulio:  Use your heart and your head.  Be realistic, smart and strategic, but take calculated risks.  And remember the "Six Degrees Of Separation" adage:  you are only six people away from anyone you need to access in order to help make your dream a reality.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - October 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - October 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Hal Summers - La Quinta, California's Hike Every Day Guy

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Hal Summers, a La Quinta, California hiker who resolved to hike every single day in 2009, during my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Hal works in the hotel industry and grew up in Orange County, California less than five miles from the beach.  His parents moved to the desert in 1978 and he relocated there about five years later.  He told me he "fell in love with the desert and its surrounding mountains and started hiking in the area."  For 10 years he even ran a hiking store, but said, "With a wife and kids it became more difficult to get out.  This year I resolved not only to hike more, but every single day."

Hal has a wonderful blog:  Hike Every Day - 365 Hikes - At Least That's The Plan.  Each day he chronicles his journey in words and photographs.  Whether you are an avid hiker, a walker, someone who loves nature, or simply interested in folks who have interesting New Year Resolutions, Hal's blog is well worth a look.  Keep it up Hal, January 1, 2010 is right around the corner, and I bet you keep hiking right on through the New Year!

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Hal Summers:  This is the first time I have ever made a New Year Resolution.  I'd never seen anyone stick to one.  On a daily basis I use iCal on my computer to organize my activities.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Hal Summers:  I have an abiding love of wild places.  It is something instilled in me through family trips to National Parks, church backpacking trips and hiking in the desert.  Having a tree-lined backyard as a kid didn't hurt.  I haved loved the outdoors as long as I can remember.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality?

Hal Summers:  It may be cliché, but I take it one day at a time.  Often I don't know what I will be doing until I do it.  I am very open to change and living in the moment.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Hal Summers:  Hiking every day takes time.  If I can call my family and job obstacles, then I would say they are.  They are definitely the two biggest competitors for me time.  My job, though, has been very supportive as far as scheduling goes and my family has been unbelievable, my wife especially.  Sometimes family members accompany me on my outings.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Hal Summers:  I always keep my eyes open for some new place to explore and dream of where I 'd like to go if I had unlimited time and resources.  I will be going on an outing to Lake Tahoe and Yosemite soon and I just got back from the Sierras.  Today, as I was hiking in the100-degree+ desert heat, I was thinking about possibly going to Colorado this Fall.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable?  

Hal Summers:  I have my blog:  hikeeveryday,blogspot.com.  That lets everyone know what I'm doing.  Also, my wife - like all wives - wants to know where I'm going and when I'll be back.  Plus, people at work are always asking me if I'm still doing it.  I tell them to read my blog.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Hal Summers:  Absolutely!  If I tried to make a list of my bad habits I would never know where to start.  Also, ridding me of my bad habits is my wife's job, or so she thinks.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Hal Summers:  Whether discovering a new trail, climbing a mountain, or just hiking with my dog in the desert, I get a sense of serenity and personal confidence that I don't think I could get any other way.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Hal Summers:  I just climbed Mount Langley, a 14,000 foot peak in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.  I've discovered undocumented trails and found a lot of Native American cultural resources that I never knew were out there.  Making a new discovery is always very exciting.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Hal Summers:  Do what you love and share your passion with people you know.  They may not share the love you have of your particular pursuit, but they will be inspired by your passion.  They will also give you feedback on how you're doing, good or bad.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - September 21, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - September 21, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Robert Maurer, Ph.D. - Santa Monica, California Clinical Psychologist & Organizational Consultant

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I was introduced to Robert Maurer, Ph.D., a Santa Monica Clinical Psychologist and Organizational Consultant, when I discovered his wonderful book One Small Step Can Change Your Life:  The Kaizen Way (pubished in 2004 by Workman Pubishing) during my daily research.  When I picked up One Small Step earlier this year, I found that I couldn't put it down because it put a name - "kaizen" - on my approach to achieving New Year Resolutions, dreams and goals via small daily steps and tasks:  'One resolution, one day at a time for one year' (i.e. Daily Resolves).  I contacted him soon after to request an interview because I believe his book can be a valuable resource for anyone who is working to fulfill dreams, keep New Year Resolutions, or achieve daily goals. 

Dr. Maurer's book is very user-friendly - easy to read, and full of common sense tips for achieving goals that are backed up by science and research.  The inside flap summarizes the approach:  "Unleash the potent force of kaizen, the Japanese technique of achieving great and lasting success through small, steady steps.  Whether the goal is as specific as getting more sleep or as broad as meeting the love of your life, kaizen works because it melts away resistance - in particular, the "fight-or flight" brain chemistry behind people's underlying fear of change." 

The book's eight chapters are"devoted to the personal application of kaizen and encompass six different strategies" . . . which include:

• asking small questions to dispel fear and inspire creativity
• thinking small thoughts to develop new skills and habits - without moving a muscle
• taking small actions that guarantee success
• solving small problems, even when you're faced with an overwhelming crisis
• bestowing small rewards to yourself or others to produce the best results
• recognizing the small but crucial moments that everyone else ignores

The 'philosophy' according to the book, is that "Great change is make through small steps . . . The goal:  change your life without fear and without failure."  If you are thinking about pursuing a dream, changing your life, or creating a new habit, 'One Small Step . . .' is well worth a read.  [UPDATE:  Read Bob's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Dr. Robert Maurer:  I do not make new years resolutions.   Since life is a learning process, I set goals and work on them daily all year long.  When I do set a goal, I look for very small steps to implement each day.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Dr. Robert Maurer:  My primary passion is service.  I am most alive when contributing to others.  I look for small ways to do this daily from smiling at strangers, being courteous and thankful to people in stores and restaurants, as well as volunteering my time to non-profits.  My goals are frequently self-focused such as taking care of my health and keeping small agreements.  The better I take care of myself, the more I have to give to others.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

Dr. Robert Maurer:  Three key techniques:  (1)  I ask myself two-four times a week, "What do you want most in life?"  The asking of the question keeps my brain focused on life's goals.  (2)  Many of my goals are challenging.  If they were easy I probably would have already done them!  I commit to very small steps.  This eliminates fear and resistance.  (3)  I practice compassion and curiosity when I forget or slip on my path.  Judgment and criticism are obstacles to change.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Dr. Robert Maurer:  Primary obstacles are workload and travel schedules.  By keeping the steps for change very small, I eliminate the excuse of "not enough time".  I am using the physical demands on travel as a challenge - looking for ways to take care of myself such as drinking more water and meditating as a means of helping myself through jet lag.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

Dr. Robert Maurer:  The old cliché about the journey vs. the destination helps.  I know the most important objective is to take pleasure in this moment rather than waiting for the achievement of the goal to bring me pleasure.  I like the word "enthusiasm" . . . it means the "spirit within".  Achieving the goals is less important than being playful and curious while I am pursuing them. 

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable?  

Dr. Robert Maurer:  I track my progress in a journal each day.  The small steps make being accountable much easier.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Dr. Robert Maurer:  I think both are important.  It is also vital to become fascinated rather than frustrated by "bad habits".  I try to view each bad habit as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block.  The poor habit is a teacher and my task is to discover the lesson and start to learn it.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward?

Dr. Robert Maurer:  The pursuing is the place where passion needs to live.  If I am not passionate about the pursuit, I use the AA motto, "fake it till you make it" and rehearse how I want to be feeling about the journey.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Dr. Robert Maurer:  Overcoming stuttering and becoming a public speaker was one of my favorite uses of kaizen, as well as losing forty pounds and keeping it off!

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Dr. Robert Maurer:  Define yourself, your worth, your identity in terms of the dream rather than the result.  The bigger the dream, the smaller the steps you may need and more you will want to take pride in the beauty and the value of the dream.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - September 10, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - September 10, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: A.F. Reinhart - Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I met A.F. 'Angela' Reinhart earlier this year in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Angela creates fabulous fine art and commercial illustrations (I fell in love with her painted gourds, they're so colorful and creative!).  She also writes children's stories and instructional articles.  Her career goals include being a published author and illustrator for children, teens and adult literature.  Her current work involves murals, decorative painting, teaching art and providing instructional tutorials. 

Angela describes herself as a "wanna-be artist" in the field of animation and voice-over work, but her overall career accomplishments are many.  She has been featured in the Summer All Media Exhibition with Upstream People Gallery online.  She placed third in the American Gourd Society's Decorative Painting Contest (Winter 2008) and third place in The Gourd Magazine - Patriotic-Themed Gourd Contest (Summer 2009).  In 2008 she was an on-call designer for The Artist's Club out of Vancouver - her work included the 'Love Of Spring' Welcome Sign Instructional Project, which was well received through several of the Club's catalogues.  Closer to home, in the Midwest, 2009 marks her third year to teach art through the Purdue Extension Homemakers Club.  Her most recent work includes a new children's story 'Bumbling Blackbird And Clumsy Crow', as well as custom art pieces. 

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

A.F. Reinhart:  I do use New Year's Resolutions and try to commit to them on a daily basis.  I try to keep these goals foremost in my mind.  I post notes regarding the small daily steps it takes to get me closer to my goals.  Nothing is accomplished overnight, especially that long-term goal.  In noting those baby steps, I am building my confidence toward the greater goal.  I also have found my morning journal to be indispensable.  My artistic journey is being greatly aided by the writings of Julia Cameron in her book 'The Artist's Way'.  [I second that Angela - I have faithfully done my brand of 'morning pages' since discovering The Artists Way, nearly 20 years ago!]  [UPDATE:  Read Angela's 2009 Year End Essay.]

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

A.F. Reinhart:  The focus of my current work is to gain a position as a published author.  Achieving actual published work provides an avenue to further advance my writing career.  To find that opportunity can be a real challenge.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

A.F. Reinhart:  Persistence.  Commitment.  Consistency.  There is a drive and determination that keeps me steadfast toward achieving my goals.  As difficult as it has been to establish myself, I do not feel like I have the option to quit.  In making my goals a reality, I would have to attribute much of this growing success to learning as much as I can about BALANCING life.  The journey is not without its confusion over what comes first and conscientiously weighing everything out.  Knowing it is NOT easy is a good thing to understand also.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

A.F. Reinhart:  Patience is one of the best tools for overcoming obstacles.  I constantly am reminding myself to be open to change.  Every circumstance provides new opportunities to learn, to change, to evolve into the person that will achieve the goals I have set for myself.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans?

A.F. Reinhart:  Daily affirmations of my faith keep me on target in life.  One of the hardest things I try to do is consistently make time to play.  Everyone needs time to relax and give themselves time to be silly and creative.  There is a renewed energy to being child-like.  It is surprising how revitalizing it is.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable?  

A.F. Reinhart:  Being a rural artistic, my contact with others is a bit limited.  My accountability factor has to be myself.  I involve myself in as much as I reasonably can handle.  Those commitments force me to lock-in my dedication.  I associate myself with organizations like:  The Society of Decorative Painters, The Society of Children's Book Writers And Illustrators, The American Gourd Society, and The Indiana Gourd Society - they give me constant 'knock-at-the-door' potential opportunities.  This system provides accountability on a very personal level.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

A.F. Reinhart:  Very likely.  I believe if we pursue our passions we will have less interest and time to participate in the bad habits.  It seems like it does, quite often, come down to a matter of choice.  What do you really want to be doing with your life?

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward?

A.F. Reinhart:  Honestly, it is almost unexplainable what my art and writing brings to my life.  I am not sure there is a word to describe it.  ;)  Joy is a great start.  I believe everyone has been blessed with a talent, something that they are happy doing.  More than likely there is a career possibility waiting to be tapped into.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

A.F. Reinhart:  The completion of my writing course, for me, has been quite a significant accomplishment.  For quite some time, I stockpiled advertisements for the Institute of Children's Literature.  My hopes to pursue my writing fell short to a pile of bills, a busy household and struggles with time.  One day I was tired of putting it on hold and decided to 'just do it'.  I completed the course.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

A.F. Reinhart:  If you are pursuing your dream make it known.  I encourage you to share your passion with someone you trust (not to poke fun at you).  Encouragement, support and honest input are outcomes you will truly treasure.  One of the greatest things you can do in pursuing your passion is to associate yourself with it.  In some way, connect yourself with your dream, even when it means sweeping the floor or scrubbing toilets!  You are near what is dear to you and closer to that 'door of opportunity'.  Oh yeah, and . . . never give up.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - September 2, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - September 2, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Lisa Orgler, Iowa Artist, Designer And Creator Of 'The Lunchbox Project'

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Lisa Orgler, artist, designer, and creator of The Lunchbox Project - A 2009 Food Collage Journal, in 2009 during my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Lisa is a self-proclaimed artist and trained landscape architect who finds happiness in creating beautiful things.  She recently told me, "Though I enjoy crafting and art at all levels, my true love is painting and drawing with ink.  This is currently fulfilled daily through my 2009 resolution of keeping a public food journal called 'The Lunchbox Project'.  To add a twist . . . all my paintings are on playing cards . . . and honestly, I'm not really a good cook (I just love to eat)."

When I encountered Lisa's wonderful Blog, I was not only drawn to her art, but also to her good-natured sense of humor, illustrated by her posted resolution for 2009:  "Forget dieting, my new year's resolution is to eat big!  I love food, I love art, I love journaling . . . so I plan to combine them all into one big event - The Lunchbox Project.  My goal in 2009 is to create one masterpiece a day - each one on a playing card.  Some will look great, others dull, some probably hokey - but its my meal and everything is a go.  Check in starting January 1, 2009 to see how this journey progresses.  I'll need your support.  It's difficult swallowing a goal like that."  [UPDATE:  Read Lisa's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Lisa Orgler:  My New Year's resolutions used to be typical ones . . . eat healthier, exercise, etc., then I realized I should set goals that would support what I really love . . . my art.  One year my goal was to create a small collage journal each day, then it was followed by my current daily food blog, The Lunchbox Project.  In the end, I have a reason to paint daily, plus a great collection of illustrations to use for future products.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Lisa Orgler:  My lifelong passion is great design, fun images and beautiful things.  All of these are pulled together through my love of painting.  I realized as a child that if I couldn't buy something, I could at least re-create it on paper through my crafts.  Honestly, some days I can't wait to come home from my full-time job to create another illustration.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

Lisa Orgler:  There are three things I do . . . A)  Chunk it down.  I learned in graduate school that large projects (like a thesis) could be broken down into smaller parts.  Now I approach all projects this way, whether it's a book proposal, my daily blog, or a commission.  Nothing is too big, if you can chunk it down into little pieces.  It's amazing what you've achieved once all those parts are completed.  B)  Keep a schedule.  We all have busy lives, but you really need to have deadlines for yourself.  Keeping a daily blog keeps me on my toes, plus I write for another website weekly, so I keep a very structured schedule.  Please note, we all have kids, often another full-time job, plus other major projects.  You just need to decide how they fit together successfully . . . so everything flourishes.  C)  I often make my goals public.  Public can mean sharing with your family and friends, or sharing them with the Internet world.  I feel obligated to keep up with my blog.  I've come close to missing my own deadlines, but know many people are reading my blog, so I prefer not to disappoint.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Lisa Orgler:  Time is my number one obstacle.  Some days I come to the scary realization that there are not enough hours in the day.  I have a lot of things pulling me in all directions.  Planning is my survival.  I plan as far ahead as possible to allow my projects to thrive, but allow for changes (since those around me have their own schedules).

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans? 

Lisa Orgler:  My number one motivation is my love of creating things.  I can't wait some days to paint, sew, or read about other artists.  I just love beautiful things, whether it's my own creation, or just enjoying other's work.  Both make me happy.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Lisa Orgler:  I keep myself accountable through the public showcase of my goals . . . like with my blog.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Lisa Orgler:  Yes, everyone should focus on their passions.  Life is so much more fun if you follow goals you truly enjoy.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Lisa Orgler:  Absolutely, I am amazed that I am actually keeping up with my daily goals and am thrilled with benefits that I did not anticipate . . . new friends, sharing my art beyond a small community, learning about other's blogs, and creating a large art collection that I can now use for future projects.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Lisa Orgler:  My blog started as a way to encourage me to just paint everyday.  Now I sell my original art, showcase other food blogs, am developing additional products, and very soon will have a newsletter.  Everything is just branching out.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Lisa Orgler:  You really need to focus on one thing . . . but something you truly love.  I have so many interests and have trouble focusing, but my blog has really helped.  It has shown that focusing on one thing blossoms into a more developed idea.  Then it just keeps blooming and blooming.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - August 18, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

Kim M. Simpson - August 18, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Jan Beaver Coad - Seattle Area Educator, Multi-Media Artist & Author

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may statistically be in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I met Jan Beaver Coad earlier this year in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Formerly a community college instructor and administrator, she is a delightful creative soul, multi-media artist and author.  Jan has Undergraduate Degrees in Respiratory Therapy and a Masters Degree in Community Health Education.  She left full-time employment to pursue an art and writing career.  She and her children face many obstacles, including Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Tourette's Syndrome.

Jan is the author of 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?', a collection of personal essays about a Mother's journey raising special needs children and how it lead to the creation of a non-profit organization, The Lavender Door Foundation (the book will be available in August of 2010).  Jan is currently working on a memoir about the importance of setting goals and following your dreams.  She and her husband, children, cat, and dog live in the Seattle, Washington area.  [UPDATE:  Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Jan Coad:  I do make resolutions - but instead of doing them once a year in January, I set small manageable goals throughout the year and complete them one-by-one, then reassess and come up with the the next small goal toward achieving my dreams.  By doing this I am able to see small successes to keep me motivated on my journey.  When I used to make New Year Resolutions, I had a long list that seemed so daunting that I was overwhelmed and gave up more easily.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Jan Coad:  My primary passion is to support at-risk youth and their parents in navigating their way through this challenging world.  I accomplish this through my non-fiction writing, mentoring, and my non-profit organization.  Art is one way I ease my anxieties and I have found it works for my children, as well - my art foundation goal is to assist at-risk youth in decreasing stress associated with their Asperger's, attention deficits, learning disabilities, OCD, or Tourette's.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

Jan Coad:  My biggest strength is my patience, understanding and creativity.  I also have an incredible husband who is supportive of my dreams - together we created, ran and later sold a Victorian Tearoom.  My best friend tells me I have the patience of a saint and that my way is paved into heaven by the calm patience I have in working with my children and other youth with disabilities.  My philosophy is that being disabled doesn't mean one is unable!  I know what it is like to grow up feeling like you don't "fit in," so I can use this knowledge to help others to learn to reach their dreams.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Jan Coad:  My primary obstacle is my negative self-talk - not allowing myself to be successful.  I had to learn to write positive statements, or affirmations, when I was first in college.  I was hysterical about speaking in front of anyone.  I took and dropped speech class many times before completing my Bachelor's Degree.  If you had asked me when I was younger if I would teach for a living, or speak publicly, I would have laughed.  Now I share my goals with my husband and others, so I can visualize the dreams as a reality.  In order to achieve our dreams, we must believe.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans? 

Jan Coad:  My husband is my biggest supporter who encourages me and enables me to go after my dreams.  My best friend and I also work together to encourage each other - we are better at seeing successes in each other, rather than seeing our own.  She and I meet once a week to talk about our progress and to support each other.  It really helps to have cheerleaders!  This is the role I see myself in working with youth - their cheerleader.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Jan Coad:  I write my goals down and read them out loud.  I share them with other people - by telling them to others it helps me to talk about my passions and thereby believe that they will happen.  I have a daily mantra, "I am going on Oprah."  I want to share our family's story about Asperger's and special needs, and increase awareness of the challenges these children and adults face.  Being different isn't bad - it is just different.  I believe in a world where people aren't judged for their differences . . . where all can live together in peace.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Jan Coad:  Absolutely - I have discovered, in order for me to be successful, I have to love what I do and do what I love.  Earlier in life when I made New Year's Resolutions, I created a long list of things I wanted to change - often these were bad habits that I hoped to change.  Now I break the resolution into smaller, more manageable steps toward the ultimate goal and complete the little steps one at a time (baby steps).  This is the way I have been able to be more successful.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Jan Coad:  I get much joy out of seeing myself achieve my dreams - most of my dreams (other than personal rewards like swimming with dolphins) are oriented toward serving others.  It really is a blessing to be able to help others see that they are not alone.  While waiting for my daughter's hair cut, I met another Mother sitting next to me.  She had a son 13 and a daughter in her early 20's (three years older than my son and daughter).  I mentioned that my son had told me "real Mom's" don't have short, spiky hair, so I was letting mine grow.  I explained that my son has Asperger's, so he tells it like it is.  She asked how I got a diagnosis for him . . . it turned out that her children were almost the mirror image of my two, only a few years older.  I can't tell you how many mothers I meet like this - not sure how to help their children.  This is why I wrote my first book - to let others know they are not alone.  It is my hope that my stories will offer some measure of comfort to other parents.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Jan Coad:  Raising my children and seeing them become independent and not NEED me has really been an achievement.  The two have a combination of Asperger's Syndrome, attention deficits, learning disabilities, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Tourette's Syndrome, yet they are 'dreamers and doers' just like me and are amazingly inspiring.  Second, would have to be finding the courage to write about our journey and then finding a publisher for the book.  I still can't believe that my book will be available in August 2010.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Jan Coad:  Write your dreams down . . . no matter how impossible they seem.  To achieve dreams, you must believe in them.  You must be a 'dreamer and doer'.  If you write the dreams down and share them with others they become more real.  My daily mantra is, "I am going on Oprah to talk about Aspergers', OCD and Tourette's."  My husband affirmed this when he said, "I heard if you say it enough and believe in it, you can make it happen."  I smiled, "See, you've got it!  We are going to make it happen."  I used to laugh when I first began telling people that I wanted to go on the Oprah Show . . . now I don't think it is ridiculous.  I'll make it happen.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - July 22, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Kim M. Simpson - July 22, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Stephanie O'Dea - San Francisco Bay Area Mom, Author, Blogger, And Slow-Cookerer

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am running an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I discovered Stephanie O'Dea, AKA 'The Crockpot Lady', early in 2008 during my travels across the Internet in search of folks who make and keep their resolutions.  Her 2008 resolution was to use her slow cooker every day and post the recipes and photos documenting the fruits of her labor in a daily blog, 'A Year Of Slow Cooking'.  I love using my own 30-year-old slow cooker (my Mother gave it to me at the start of my freshman year in college), so I was an instant fan.  According to Stephanie, "I was interested in starting a blog, and knew the only way I'd keep up with it was to vow to do so daily.  I was (and still am!) a bit skittish about sharing too much personal information with the Internet, and liked the idea of a food blog.  But I'm not a great cook.  I pretty much can only slow-cook.  The idea for the blog came from that realization, and my resolution was born."  As was a book,  Make It Fast, Cook It Slow:  The Big Book Of Everyday Slow Cooking, soon to be released in October of 2009.  [UPDATE:  Read Stephanie's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  Yes.  I consistently write out goals and do to-do lists that I need to work on in order to accomplish my goals.  I have 'big dream', 10 year, 5 year, 1 year, and quarterly goals.  I tweak and modify as needed.  I try my hardest to review my goals weekly and stay on task/focus.  There are times I go months without reviewing my goals, and more often than not, I've found that I've met them, or surpassed them, which is a neat surprise.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  My family is my primary passion.  I love spending time with them making new memories, and many of my goals keep that in mind.  I'd like to keep my career as free-flowing as possible, so I can spend time with my growing family.  I like to travel and discover new things.  Professionally, I like helping people.  I really like finding shortcuts around the house and helping others to learn those ways, so they, too, can spend more time with their family.  I also like to write.  I enjoy playing around with with sentences, and coming up with clear, creative ways to portray my ideas and thoughts.  I also like coming  up with ad slogans, but I'm not in advertising . . . ;-)

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  I find myself thinking a few times a day, "Is this the best utilization of your time?"  It keeps me focused and on task.  There isn't really much on TV that is useful, and I get annoyed easily with how easily I can get sucked into something that isn't providing value.  I like to veg as much as the next person, but I'd prefer to save my TV viewing for fantastic writing, or to learn something.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  Self-doubt.  I generally am a pretty positive person, but there are times when I get bogged down with worry and feelings of inadequacy.  Sometimes I whine and feel sorry for myself, but I've found if I journal these thoughts, I usually can come full-circle and gain motivation.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  I talk with my husband.  I try my hardest to not share too much with many people -- people would always prefer to talk about themselves than to listen to others go on and on about their future goals.  [Kim:  Having people with whom you can share the journey, brainstorm new ideas and overcome obstacles can be enormously helpful when working to generate enthusiasm, results and forward momentum with dreams, resolutions and daily goals.]

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  I talk with my husband.  This really hasn't been too hard for me.  I think about my plans and goals daily.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Stephanie O'Dea:  Absolutely.  I seem to always focus on what I can do instead of what I shouldn't.  It comes naturally to me, but if it doesn't for others, I'd recommend trying to change the mindset to a more positive one.  If you want a child to walk in the house, you ask them to "walk please," you don't ask them "not to run."

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  Absolutely.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Stephanie O'Dea:  Getting married and having my children.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Stephanie O'Dea:  I don't believe any dream is too big.  I'd write it down, and then brainstorm about different ways to help get you to where you want to go.  Many times, after you actively work toward something (paying off debt, for example) you find that new areas in your life have more harmony, and other fresh and brilliant ideas come to you.  It's quite  rewarding and a lot of fun to actively be working towards something.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - July 6, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Kim M. Simpson - July 6, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved 

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista Profile: Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers

"Do you know where your New Year Resolution is?" 

That is an often asked question in the days and months that follow the new year.  Statistics show that the majority of resolution-makers eventually abandon their pursuits.  During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work, I have encountered scores of passionate people who do persist day-after-day.  I coined the word 'Resolutionista' for these folks and the 'resolve' they patiently display:  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey!  Borrowing on my years as a working journalist, I am launching an inspirational series of interviews with ordinary folks who do extraordinary things.  They breathe life into their dreams, resolutions and daily goals, one small step at a time, one day at a time over the long haul.  Though they may be statistically in the minority of resolution-makers (the ones who succeed), I want to highlight 'what works', and give them credit for their accomplishments!

I met Trish Ayers earlier this year in my travels around Gather.Com, a Social Networking Site for the over 30 crowd, and also the home of my Gather I Resolve To . . . Group.  Trish is a wonderful essayist, workshop presenter and an award winning poet and playwright from Kentucky.  She originated and leads the Kentucky Women Playwrights' Seminar, which twice has been funded by the Kentucky Foundation For Women.  Her plays explore social issues such as breast cancer and have been presented throughout the United States and Japan, including venues such as Live Girls, Hedgerow Theatre, Iowa State University, Western Illinois University, and Berea College in Kentucky.  [UPDATE:  Read Trish's 2009 Year End Essay.]

1.  Kim Simpson:  Do you make New Year Resolutions, or use another method of consistently achieving your dreams and fulfilling your passions, day-to-day? 

Trish Ayers:  The first of each year I compile a list of over 100 life-dreams and write them in a notebook.  The list includes big and easily achieved dreams.  There are dreams from previous years and new ones.  I adjust the list every year because I believe it is important to recognize the changes in direction and desires in my life.  As a way to keep the life-dreams in my mind throughout the year, I collage each dream using pictures and words I cut from magazines.  I also record my monthly, weekly and daily goals in my journal; my daily goals, I journal each night before I go to bed.

2.  Kim Simpson:  What is your primary passion?  Is it a lifelong passion, or a more recent interest?  What is the focus of your current goal(s)? 

Trish Ayers:  Writing plays as a way to encourage positive change is my passion.  I committed to writing as my lifelong passion on my 40th birthday, which was over 10 years ago.  One of the ways to achieve this is to have my play LUMPs (which deals with breast cancer) published and produced nationwide.  Another dream I have is for Kentucky to become known for powerful women playrights.  As part of this dream, I lead a yearly seminar - The Kentucky Women Playrights' Seminar - to encourage strong Kentucky women writers to explore the genre of playrighting.

3.  Kim Simpson:  What key techniques, or strategies, do you attribute to your success in making your dreams, resolutions and daily goals a reality? 

Trish Ayers:  I tell people about my dreams;  sometimes they can help me achieve them.  I've found that when I'm asked about my work, my passion can't help but show through.  I've been told my eyes sparkle when I talk about writing plays.  The yearly, monthly and daily goal lists help keep me on track.  I am a list-maker and enjoy marking off completed items on my lists, so that is a definite strategy.  Daily I write affirmations in my journal.  During my 40th year I wrote, "I am a writer and I will be published."  By the middle of the year I was published.

4.  Kim Simpson:  What are your primary obstacles and how do you overcome them? 

Trish Ayers:  My primary obstacles are my chronic health issues.  I live with a hole in my neck for breathing.  My energy and ability to function is affected by things such as weather changes and exposure to chemicals, perfumes and smoke.  I've found I am more successful if I create my own deadlines earlier than the real deadlines.  This way if I hit a bad day I still have a few extra days.  I also can set up my office downstairs if climbing the stairs is an issue on a particular day.

5.  Kim Simpson:  How do you stay motivated, enthusiastic and on track with your plans? 

Trish Ayers:  I find each success fuels my motivation and enthusiasm.  For several years now I have committed to submitting at least one piece of writing for publication, or to a contest, each month.  There have been tough months when I've been tempted to not meet this goal, but there is something inside me that propels me to follow through on my promise to myself.  It seems when I most need a 'win', one shows up for me.  I also surround myself with 'creatives', like Kim, who are determined to meet their goals.  My creative friends are crucial.  When I'm around them I feel energized and move forward with my goals/dreams.

6.  Kim Simpson:  How do you keep yourself accountable? 

Trish Ayers:  I create self-challenges as a way to motivate myself and to keep myself accountable.  Right now I'm looking at the need to submit several pieces of writing and the days of the month are slipping away.  I also check my monthly list to see what I can do, so I will be able to mark off each item.  As a list-maker, I find great joy in marking things off the monthly list.  I also have friends, family and fellow 'creatives' who keep me on my toes with their questions about my latest piece.  That's one thing about plays:  people see them during different stages of their creation and often ask about their progress.

7.  Kim Simpson:  Do you think resolution-setters would achieve more success if they focused on their passions - things that they enjoy - rather than a list of bad habits?

Trish Ayers:  Absolutely!  Who wants to face negative things, or put negative thoughts in their minds?  I try to find a positive way to work on things that I might otherwise consider negative.

8.  Kim Simpson:  Does pursuing a passion (dream/resolution) bring a sense of joy, accomplishment and reward? 

Trish Ayers:  I've experienced joy, accomplishment and reward as a result of following my passion for writing and sharing that knowledge.  The first time I saw one of my plays it wasn't hard to pick me out of the audience.  I was the person glowing.  This positive energy fueled me forward in my writing.  It keeps on building.  A similar thing happens when I introduce a writer to the genre of plays.  This joy expands with each accomplishment.

9.  Kim Simpson:  What is your most significant achievement, and/or most memorable outcome of the journey so far? 

Trish Ayers:  I think my most significant achievement has been to change the attitudes of individuals about proper breast care.  Once before a performance, an actor in my play LUMPs pulled me aside and told me that, thanks to my play and his nagging, his mother had scheduled a mammogram.  I've heard a variety of positive comments from actresses, actors, directors, and audience members about how they are changing their actions with regards to proper breast care.  My mother, a three-time cancer survivor, sat in the audience for one performance and I felt like I won the Tony Award that night.

10.  Kim Simpson:  Any advice for someone who is thinking about pursuing a dream?

Trish Ayers:  Don't be afraid to write down your dreams, then share with people, people who you trust to help you in achieving your dreams, or goals.  Once you've had the courage to put your dreams, or goals, in writing, break them down into achievable steps.  If you desire to write a play, write a page-a-day, and in three months you'll have one done!  Or start out writing a 10-minute play.  Nine 10-minute plays can be combined to create a full-length play.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.  

Kim M. Simpson - June 8, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved * [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]

Kim M. Simpson - June 8, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved * [Trish Ayers' Publicity Photo Copyright © Tim Webb]