Great Expectations

Another new year is upon us and I, like everyone else, can't help but set some personal goals for 2011. I don't think I've ever actually written down resolutions but I figured perhaps if I put them out there for all to see, maybe I'd actually follow through on a few of them. None are earth-shattering -- I have no desire to bike across America, learn to speak Mandarin or compete on "Top Chef." Feel free to borrow any of my admittedly modest goals, or add your own. Perhaps I will revisit this next December 31st to see which ones I actually made good on!

-- I'd like make a concerted effort to cut down on the whining and yelling in my household (from both parents AND kids).

-- I need to focus on my own health and well-being as much as I focus on that of my kids.

-- I'd like to actually do something with the book proposal that has been sitting on my computer for almost a year now.

-- I need to clean out my closet/garage/basement (in no particular order).

-- I'd like to figure out a way to cut down on the constant clutter that seems to litter our house.

-- I need to resist buying my daughter more clothing just because she says she'll wear it and I think it's cute, when in reality, it will sit in her closet or she'll complain it itches after we cut the tags off.

-- I need to treat this blog more seriously and endeavor to write more frequently and learn how to maximize its potential.

-- I'd like to find out a way for my husband and me to have a day or two away from our kids so we can reconnect as a couple.

-- I'd also like to reconnect with some select old friends with whom I've lost touch (and I don't mean through Facebook)

-- I'd like to take a "girlfriends" trip.

-- And no matter which of these resolutions are realized and which fall by the wayside, I need to practice being "in the moment" and appreciating each day rather than just looking ahead to the gazillion other responsibilities, priorities and overall activities still to come (now, bow your head and chant "Namaste").

As you can see, everything listed above begins with "I" so it's pretty obvious who needs to take responsibility to make these things reality. Wish me luck....and Happy New Year!

Portrait of a Lady

Just wanted to acknowledge the passing of a woman who seemed to be such a devoted wife and mother -- Elizabeth Edwards. She died of cancer today at age 61, surrounded by her family (including estranged husband, John).

She endured more than her fair share of suffering in her final years -- the death of a teenage son, an ongoing battle with cancer, her husband's infidelity and subsequent child-out-of-wedlock -- but she seemed to weather these storms with grace and poise and I admired her for that.

While I never knew her personally, as a mother, I mourn her loss and am especially saddened that her youngest two children (ages 10 and 12) had such little time with their mom. I can only hope their father steps up to the plate to fill the parental void and keep her memory alive within their family.

Rest in peace Elizabeth.

Spend less green for a green clean

Flu Shot?                          Check

Tea and honey supply?        Check

Humidifier and new filters?  Check

A dozen boxes of tissues?    Check

Our house is pretty much fortified for cold and flu season, but today I found out about a fabulous deal that will help us keep the germs at bay AND save some money while we're at it.

If you know me, you know I'm a huge fan of Cleanwell products (alas, I am not a paid spokesperson). Their products are totally chemical-free, non-irritating wipes, sprays and soaps that kill germs using an all-natural blend of thyme. I was first introduced to them through my work as a host mom for Baby Loves Disco when Cleanwell came on board as a sponsor. Since then, I've fallen in love with their fantastic array of cleaning products that aren't as harsh on my poor winter skin AND they do the job without that cough-inducing, lung-damaging, doctors-office antiseptic after-smell.


So, for all you like-minded, germ-conscious, green people out there, consider this my holiday gift to you: Through the remainder of the year, you can save 25% on all Cleanwell items available online through this link, using the code "healthychild" at checkout.

http://shop.cleanwelltoday.com

Yes, you'll pay shipping, but it's minimal and it's more than recouped by the discounted savings. Plus, many of these products are not readily available in stores. 

Happy Holidays! And happy cleaning!