2012.

I never used to be a big goal setter. But I think that was just because I always set too many for myself and they often weren't very realistic. Or maybe I just didn't believe I could make them happen right from the beginning. That's one quick way to kill a dream... to think it will always be just that. A lovely little idea tucked away in your heart. Certainly never a reality. But then I decided to change the way I thought and felt about goals lists and I found a way to make it work for me. 365 days, one (short) list, a few big dreams and the firm belief that I can and will see them happen. I made one of these lists last year and I completed every single thing (with the exception of some shop-related tasks which I shelved because I knew I would be closing up my store.) It felt really good to check things off one by one... and I am excited to be starting fresh with a new year and new things to work towards.

So I wanted to share my list for 2012 with all of you and talk about each particular goal a little bit more. : )

1. Finish business plan for the store: It's official folks, I have begun taking real steps towards opening my own little brick-and-mortar shop. There are still a lot of unknowns and a whole heap of work and planning to be done... but it's happening. To say I'm excited would be a massive understatement. But to say I'm terrified would be, too. I suppose that's normal though, right? Right.
2. Reach 1,000 followers. I will always be the first person to say that a blog should never be first and foremost "driven by numbers." But I also know that this blog is something I love very much and I would like it to be a big part of the future of everything I do. I also hope that it will be one source of income for me as I start to navigate the world of small business ownership (because Lord knows I will likely be eating Ramen for at least the first year. Ha.)
3. Complete one sewing project every week. I like just about every kind of "craft" there is... but sewing is hands-down my favorite. When I bought my sewing machine I invested very little because I assumed that my new hobby wouldn't last very long. But then I started making things and found that I actually loved it. Sitting in front of my sewing machine is like therapy for me, I feel so relaxed and happy and forget about anything that might be bothering me. I want and need to make more time for sewing.
4. Take a photography class. I adore my camera but I am so clueless when it comes to working the dang thing. I was initially convinced that I could figure it out on my own but I was wrong. So with my tail tucked between my legs, I hope to find a local class where I can actually learn how to get the best from my very nice camera.
5. Dust off your passport. Ever since I lived overseas in Australia and Indonesia I have had the travel bug in a major way. But it hasn't been until the past year that I am really in a position, financially or otherwise, to even think about traveling overseas again. I have a few places in mind and the vacation time to make it happen... so it's happening!
6. Soak up every joyful moment! Living with anxiety can be all-consuming. But I have so much to be thankful for. Seriously. I want to spend more time just being thankful and finding joy in the every day things.

So that's my list for 2012. Do you think I'm crazy? Because I am! Crazy excited for the year to come and crazy hopeful that I will actually get it all checked off the list. Are you with me? I hope so. Everyone can use a little kick-in-the-pants and/or a pat-on-the-back every now and again. 2012... you better get ready.