I RESOLVE TO . . .

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

 
"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 a look back at her resolutions and progress for 2011!

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.  [Read Jan's 2009 Year End Essay.]

YEAR IN REVIEW  -  2011

This year of I Resolve To® . . . has been a very rewarding experience.  Rather than making New Year Resolutions that I would not keep, I was able to write major goals and break them into manageable baby steps that I could check off each month.  Looking back on the year, I am amazed at how successful this year has been for me - especially as hard as it seemed at some points.

My health threw a few curves at me this year, but I was able to have one knee fixed up through arthroscopic surgery, which really helped the arthritis pain and torn cartilage.  I was able to exercise more with a much happier knee and over this year.  I have lost thirty pounds.  I feel so much better even though I still have many more pounds to lose.

I continued writing about the triumphs and struggles of parenting children with special needs and 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?' was published in September of 2010.  It is available on Amazon.Com and is getting good reviews.

I began cooking healthier foods for the family when I learned that my husband had high cholesterol.  It turned into a fabulous creative idea for new recipes and an idea for a series of books:  'Connecting Food, Farm & You:  40 Farmers Markets In 40 Days.'

Financially, our family suffered a great deal.  We began the year with my husband's ex-wife wanting a huge amount of money when she already received a large amount of child support, so we had to pay an attorney for that.  In the Spring I purged to try to sell items at a garage sale and didn't make much, but spent a great deal of time on that.  My son had some issues at school that again required money and again going to an attorney.  The economy continued to hurt the value of our home and we were unable to sell it.  And finally, my husband lost his job and we lost our health insurance.  We walked away from our home, cashed out all our retirement money and bought a boat out of foreclosure and entered a new adventure of life aboard a 62 foot yacht that continues to be a major work in progress.  But we have learned as a family to meet each challenge that life throws at us and recite our family mantra, "Everything is going to be alright!"

I continue to keep my personal motto:  I am a DREAMER and a DOER and am almost finished writing my memoir about growing up with undiagnosed Asperger Syndrome.  My non-profit organization The Lavender Door Foundation is getting some press too and I am making plans to move that along, as well. 

All in all, it was a successful year and I am happy to welcome 2011.

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 - December 31, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

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

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.  [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 spent November and December continuing my exercises and doing some speaking and signings for my book.  I have lost about 10 pounds total and I still am enjoying using the elliptical machine and swimming laps, or walking in the pool. 

I have continued working on marketing plans:  arranging more book signings and speaking engagements for 'Why Don't They Come With Instructions?' (StoneGarden.Net Publishing).  In November I was interviewed on KLAY 1180 AM Radio Lakewood, Washington (on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving).  It was a fabulous hour-long radio show and I really enjoyed every minute of it.  They sent me an MP3 of the show and I was able to use bits of it to make a book trailer that I uploaded on my YouTube page and on my Facebook page.

In December I spoke with two groups in the Bay Area, California and did some book signings.  Those were pretty successful events and I enjoyed meeting others with Asperger's and parents of special needs children.

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

Jan Beaver Coad:  Finances have still been tight - with the holidays and moving out of our home, the children had to go through quite a bit of change all at once.  They are really adjusting to life aboard a boat and "WE ALL LOVE IT!".  I wish I had been able to buy more for them, but we had a wonderful Christmas Eve with my best friend at her new home eating and playing games until very late.  On the way home my son said, "This is my BEST Christmas Eve EVER."  And on Christmas morning we had a great time just the four of us (plus Princess our crazy pup) opening gifts, and then we enjoyed a great dinner together later in the day aboard our boat.  So, it was a wonderful first boat Christmas!

I continue to overcome my obstacles by taking small steps forward and trying not to allow anxiety, or lack of health insurance to overwhelm me.  As long as I focus on the end goal, it keeps me going . . . and the entire family repeats the daily mantra, "Everything is going to be alright!"

My husband's new company is keeping him busy and I have been helping with marketing and office management, and creating marketing materials, along with a website for his business.  I also made Christmas cards and purchased small gifts for his clients, so he had a great time visiting with them just before Christmas, and he knows he will have some great work in the New Year.

At the end of December my laptop computer (second one this year) got a huge virus that disabled the operating system and my computer crashed for the second time.  Luckily, my ingenious husband was able to download everything from the hard drive and recover all my files!  So lesson learned for the SECOND time:  back up, back up, back up! [Kim Simpson:  Jan, this is one of my top, on-going, resolutions, backing up all of my important files on multiple portable drives and putting one in my safe deposit box.  It is so important!  Keep going with those back ups!]

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  NEVER give up on your DREAMS.  I am a DREAMER and a DOER and I love encouraging others.  I have met wonderful people this year, as I have been networking.  As we help each other, what we put out there comes back to us in spades!  So I continue to be of service to others as often as I can.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for the next few months?

Jan Beaver Coad:  I am still working on more plans for speaking engagements, book signings, and soon, publication of my second book, 'Connecting Food, Farm & You:  40 Farmers Markets In 40 Days, Western Washington (StoneGarden.Net Publishing, March 2011).  I continue to work on the San Francisco book (second in Farmers Market Series scheduled for 2012 publication).  I also intend to find an agent and send a query for my memoir about growing up with undiagnosed Asperger Syndrome (almost complete, so I plan to finish writing this book).  And I guess, shop for a new laptop!  :)  [Kim Simpson:  Good luck with all of your 2011 plans, Jan.  Keep up the great work!]

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 - December 30, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Indiana Freelance Artist & Writer, A.F. Reinhart Takes The Challenge - November, December 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 October update today and reports on steady progress! [Running a little behind on updates - but progress is hard won, so we don't want to miss any reports!]

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:  The end of the year is almost here and it is about time that I pass along some pictures.  The studio shots taken earlier have since been deleted off my daughter's camera, not a priority I suppose.  ;)  My camera is back and I now have my photos and postings caught up with my November-December Update.

• Artist Collaboration:  We have looked at a couple buildings.  A potential building is available with a variety of reasonable repairs, to be able to launch our art coop.  Ideas are being considered for smaller-scale start up.  Hopes are high and the enthusiasm is not waning.
• Career Avenue:  Follow-ups - You are looking at the new Advertising Agent for the Swiss City Monthly, based in Berne, Indiana.  I am grateful for this opportunity.  I may be able to incorporate my art from time to time, and I am able to continue to work out of my home studio.  Besides, it is an amazing little magazine - small in size, big in impact.  A national craft supplier/publisher also has picked me up as a new pattern packet instructor.  I will pass along more information as this avenue progresses.
• Custom Work:  Mother Teresa suncatcher delivers soon.  It took a little longer than I thought it would, but I am happy with the final artwork and hope the client will be pleased, too.
• Family Life:  Birthdays and Thanksgiving came together well.  Some Thanksgiving meals were made the night before.  The kids jumped in the kitchen Thanksgiving morning and we pulled together several more dishes.  That's teamwork.  All in all, we had a nice holiday.

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

Angela Reinhart:  November and December are the months busy with holiday activities.  Balance plays an even more important role when things are hectic.

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

Angela Reinhart:  Time management is another recurring challenge.  Self-employment is exactly that, self-governing.  It is not an easy job.  I think people take their bosses for granted.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Angela Reinhart:  Take nothing for granted.  If secondary education is not an option, READ.  There is nothing you cannot learn.  Live life to the fullest; maintain confidence in your passions.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for the New Year?

Angela Reinhart:  A lot is happening.

• Artist Collaboration:  We are in the planning stages of inviting area artists to an initial (public) meeting to get an idea of the level of interest and what avenues could be offered through our new facility.  Group brainstorming will help iron out the bugs.  Great minds at work, I can't wait to see where this takes us.
• Career Avenue:  I am awaiting surfaces and compiling the supply list of instructions.
• Custom Work:  Last of the holiday orders.
• Fun:  Relax and enjoy family and the Holiday Season!

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts? 

Angela Reinhart: I am reading two great books:  Alchemy by Saint Germain and Angel Power by Janice Connell.

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 - December 29, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

 

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

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.  [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 spent September and October adjusting to living aboard a boat and having an office to work from (we rented a small office upstairs at the marina where our boat is moored).  I have been busy getting my second book ready for publication and also simultaneously working on my memoir about growing up with undiagnosed Aspergers Syndrome on the autism spectrum.  I have been staying on track and trying to do a least one thing for my books, non-profit, or myself, each and every day.

I have continued going to the gym one, or two days a week.  I have now lost 10 pounds and am really enjoying the elliptical machine and swimming laps, or walking in the pool.  I found some new pool toys to work out my arms while I am walking and I was really feeling it the next day.

I have continued working on marketing plans:  arranging blog tours and book signing tour plans and speaking engagements for WHY DON'T THEY COME WITH INSTRUCTIONS, StoneGarden.Net Publishing.  I was able to participate in an Autism Awareness Event at Borders Books - I walked in the day before the event was  scheduled, to talk to the event planner about the possibility of a book signing and they invited me to the event.  I sold some books and made great contacts for future events (and volunteered to help with the National Autism Awareness Month Event in April at Borders - so I am hoping to solidify that relationship for having my books in their stores).

I was able to spend time with my new camera (that we were able to purchase after all three of our cameras were stolen in our house burglary), so I have posted a few more photographic articles about our neighborhood here at the marina where we live.

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

Jan Beaver Coad:  Finances have still been tight - we learned on the holiday weekend that my husband's partners were done with him.  We entered the office on the weekend to finish up some engineering plans for some clients and my husband's office was packed in boxes and lining the hallway outside his office.  He also was shut of of the computer.

For the next month-and-a-half, the former partners fought us and refused to buy my husband out of his shares in the company without a signed non-compete clause.  It was kind of like going into court for a divorce and expecting your ex to sign a pre-nuptial agreement.  Luckily our family attorney was able to explain to their attorney that there was NO signed non-compete agreement and they couldn't expect my husband not to work for two years without major compensation.  So I spent most of September designing business cards, website and flyers for his new business venture (www.de-civil.com).  It was necessary for me to change my focus toward what would bring money into the family.  Meanwhile, I had my book appear on Amazon.Com, September 20, 2010.  And in late October, the Kindle version was available.

It was necessary for me to cancel my October plans to Washington, DC and delay them until January 2011.  My family needed me for support and so I had to change my focus.  I continue to overcome my obstacles by taking small steps forward and trying not to allow anxiety to overwhelm me.  It would have been easy to wallow in self pity, but I am determined to stay a DREAMER and a DOER.  As long as I focus on the end goal, it keeps me going . . . and the entire family repeats the daily mantra, "Everything is going to be alright."

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Jan Beaver Coad:  NEVER give up on your DREAMS.  I have made more contacts on Facebook and an article I wrote on Gather.Com got some and attention, as well as an offer of assistance with my non-profit organization.  Why I began a non-profit organization . . . I resolve to promote and move forward.  After a few emails from a fellow Gather member, I found a foundation that has similar programs to the DREAMS for my non-profit, so I had a great conversation with someone at Hattie Larlham Foundation and they gave me ideas to research and we will continue to talk and I may go visit their Foundation to gain more ideas and assistance.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for September?

Jan Beaver Coad:  A number of things:

1. My book is off to my editor and she will be working with it soon.
2. I am working on my memoir and will send it to my editor soon.
3. I am considering having a blog tour organized by WOW Women on Writing, so I will continue conversations with them.
4. I am making plans for my December trip to Bay Area, California for signings and speaking engagements.
5. I am making plans for my January trip to the Washington, DC/Virginia area for book signings and speaking engagements.
6. And FINALLY, I am going to try to plan a quiet night, or two, away from the family ALL BY MYSELF (to de-stress and re-power - I usually get a quarterly trip and it has been seven months since family needs and finances have prevented a trip).

I am happy to report in the month-and-a-half my book has been out, I have sold a few (September four copies, and October 10 copies - through my publisher.  And I have sold 20 from the stock I purchased.  So if I can keep doubling each month through the publisher, I will be a happy girl.  If anyone would like an autographed book from me, I have a few hundred on hand in my office and will autograph them to anyone.  They retail for $8.95, plus shipping.  [Jan, Congratulations!  I loved the draft that I read and am looking forward to receiving my signed copy - I am happy to post a review on Amazon.com.  Enjoy your success!]

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 - November 8, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

I Resolve To® . . . Resolutionista & Kentucky Playwright, Trish Ayers, Takes The Challenge - September 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 September installment. 

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 September:

1. Input the final edits on the full-length play 'Taking Stock'.
2. Work on de-cluttering our house.
3. Continue working on our bedroom remodel.
4. A reading of 'Painting The Egress' at 517 Playwrights.
5. Work on organization binders.
6. Shred paper.
7. Start a new play.

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.  For instance:

1. I tried to work on a scene or two each week.  I have one scene to go.  So it will be ready for the reading in November.
2. We got a number of items off our back porch.  Every week I take at least three things from the porch and either find a new home by donating, or giving  it away, or throw it away.  So, I work on this once a week before trash pick-up.
3. Our bedroom continues to be a work in progress.  In September we bought the paint for the trim and a new white iron bed.  It looks amazing.  I also put on the comforter set I bought almost a year ago, but wouldn't put it on until the room was painted.  We also pulled everything out of the little closet and sorted through it.  Now there is room for my husband's dress shirts, our laundry basket and my box where I store future birthday, or Christmas gifts.  I would say I worked on our bedroom about 10 days in total.
4. Successful reading of 'Painting The Egress' with some good insights, which inspired me to revise the play.  I did the revision and love the changes.  I worked on this about seven days and even managed to run off a hard copy to put in my one-act play binder, so next time I want to submit it, the play will be ready to go.
5. I am finding myself working on the organization binders at least several times a week.  For example, when our house taxes came in the mail, I went straight to my home binder and put it in there, so when the time comes to pay it, all I have to do is pull it out.  I also finally located our will and put a copy in the binder and the official copy in our lock box at the bank.  I feel so much better that if something happens to us our daughters won't have to search through all kinds of papers to find our will.  With regards to my writing binders, they already came in handy this month because when I needed to submit a piece I went to the binder, pulled out the play, made a copy, and mailed it off.  Of course I replaced the original script back in the binder.  My binder system is a blessing.  I have never been a good filer and the papers used to stack up.  Now I just locate the binder and "file" that way!
6. Every day I would shred paper that we didn't need that came in the mail; and once a week I would do a major shredding, so I could fill our recycling bin.  As an active playwright, I have so many different revisions of plays, and multiple copies of some I have had a reading of that play.  So, every time I ran several copies of scenes of 'Taking Stock' for the upcoming reading in November, I would sort through my writing papers and decide which ones needed to be shredded, which ones I needed to keep and put in a binder, and which ones I would just place in the recycling bin.  I am seeing progress.  I am not just moving the piles of papers around!
7. I started a 10-Minute Play and wrote it slower than usual because I only worked on it a few minutes every day.  I would say I worked on it at least 15 times this month.  I only have one page to go before my first reading.

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

Trish Ayers: I had a couple of significant breathing problems, which required medicine and when I take that medicine it always takes me time to get back to normal sleep patterns.  I found when I could sleep, I had to sleep.  I overcame these obstacles by writing in my journal what I hoped to achieve while remembering to take in account my energy level.  It seemed if I did a little at a time, I still continued to make progress.

Kim Simpson:  Were there lessons learned?

Trish Ayers: I found that slow and steady was the answer for this month.  I would do a little at a time every day and I still saw progress.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for next month?

Trish Ayers: So much on tap:

1. Hold my new granddaughter Josie Lyn, who was born October 3rd!
2. Help my daughter settle in after having Josie.  I will be at their apartment as long as they would like.
3. Finish inputting the final scene of 'Taking Stock'.
4. Finish the last page of my new play.
5. Complete and send out publicity for November reading of 'Taking Stock'.
6. Submit one play for publication consideration, or a contest.
7. Work with the director on the details of the production of the collaborative play, 'Money Blue$'.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts?

Trish Ayers:  This month I am giving myself a break from house projects, which includes shredding paper, working on our bedroom, binders, and de-cluttering, since I may not be home much of the month.  Dear little Josie may just occupy my time!  [Kim:  Congratulations Trish on you success with priority projects - small steps do add up over time!  Enjoy your time with Josie!]

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 - October 17, 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 - August 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 August 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:  In working toward my goals, I did find myself in the Heartland of Ohio Tole Convention in Columbus Ohio on August 12th.  Amazing show.  Always touches my heart and spurs my creative energies!  Posting my pictures with my update, in my portfolio, or in my Etsy Shop, are on hold until my digital camera is repaired.  I was able to download a picture of a recent painting, with my daughter's camera, but the cord since then has been misplaced.

The month of August was a catch-up month; honing my office, gaining better ground with organization of the house, prepping the children for school, and tackling what I could with the garden and yard.  I did make contact with several businesses through the painter's convention and provided follow up with them later in the month.  I applaud my accomplishments, no matter how small!  [Kim:  We are right along side you applauding, Angela - great job!  No accomplishment is 'small' in regard to the overall effort.  Small steps add up to big results over the long haul.]

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

Angela Reinhart:  Each day I took steps toward achieving my goals - whether that was maintaining my health and eating right and exercising, or making contacts in furthering my business.  I am confident to say my success rate is pushing 100% overall.

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

Angela Reinhart:  I know that structure is easier to establish when there is steady work and steady income.  Funny thing is, you cannot have steady work and steady income without a structured schedule.

Kim Simpson:  What is on tap for September?

Angela Reinhart:  FOCUS - What appears to be holding me back is lack of clear focus (and the right connections).  As an artist it is advantageous to have a variety of avenues to be able to pursue.  Well, for me, I think my ambitions are too widespread.  It may be helpful  to focus on a specific professional area and provide other art services, as additional options.  Portland Chamber Luncheon at the end of the month provides for additional networking.  I have brochures and business cards ready.

I also intend to:  1)  Develop a portfolio of 10-12 'Mural Art' pieces and fine-tune marketing;  2)  Acquire three-to-five new business card jobs for my graphic design business;  3)  Tackle optional, custom fine art projects, exhibits and demos; 4)  Bring advanced writing course up-to-date;  5)  Post a BossAngel in my studio;  6)  Keep a regular schedule;  7)  Maintain prayer time;  8)  Exercise daily; and, 9)  Eat right.

Kim Simpson:  Other thoughts? 

Angela Reinhart:  September is the start of my most favorite season - Autumn.  I hope you will join me in taking time to enjoy the colors, textures . . . and the volume of God's blessings.  I am currently reading 'When God Winks At You' by Squire Rushnell.

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 - September 30, 2010
Copyright © I Resolve To® . . . * All Rights Reserved.

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]