Looking Forward

Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe we’re already in 2018, and yet this might be the most excited I’ve ever been for the start of a new year. It’s also the most exhausted I’ve ever been as I fight to get some health things under control, and yet there is something special happening as God is making me wait on Him through this weakness. There are glimmers of hope and expectation, of surprise and delight and joy that I haven’t looked forward to in a very long time.

And for the first time in a very long time, I’m not making any resolutions, choosing my “one word,” or committing myself to any major life changes. In the spirit of working hard and resting well, I’m going to try something new. Each month I’d like to work on exploring a topic related to holy hustle, and take a timeout on a habit, behavior, or task that might be good, but not great. And maybe we can do some fun things throughout the year too? Like book clubs, a Bible study, and a book launch?

Although I’m no longer coaching women in their faith & fitness goals, I do know the value of accountability. Once I share it here and it lands in your inbox, I know I’ll be far more likely to actually follow through with these thoughts I had for the year. And maybe you could make a note about what you might like to join?

January

• Explore: success
• Timeout: sweets

February

• Explore: failure
• Timeout: shopping

March

• Book club: Girl, Wash Your Face (Rachel Hollis)

April

• Explore: redefining work
• Timeout: staying up too late

May

• Bible Study: Holy Hustle

June

• Bible Study: Holy Hustle

July

• Explore: work & rest in the summer
• Timeout: fear

August

• Holy Hustle book launch!

September

• Explore: rest
• Timeout: late night snacking

October

• Explore: influence
• Timeout: excess

November

• Book Club: Holy Hustle

December

• Book Club: Holy Hustle

I’m kicking off the year continuing to do the work I love as a freelance writer, while also serving my church in a new communications role and helping some wonderful women behind the scenes of their ministries. I’ll also be speaking at a few local women’s events and preparing my heart for whatever God has planned for my book launch. Hopefully it will include time traveling with family to meet some of YOU!

And now, as we look with hope and expectation toward a new year, this is my prayer for you: 

“Now may the God who gives endurance and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, according to Christ Jesus, so that you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ with one mind and one voice.” Romans 15:5-6