Yep, the above was me last year, and the year before. My New Year's Resolution lists have read like a year long to-do list. But this year, I am simplifying. I like Russ' New Year Resolution below...just one thing. 
I didn't quite get mine reduced that far, but I am focusing on only three things in 2010. And for the first time in many many years, my first item is not to lose 20 pounds. Done that between 9/9/09 and today, hallelujah.So here are my 2010 New Year's Resolutions:
1) Lose 10 pounds
2) Keep the weight off!!!
3) Get in the habit of taking every thought captive to Christ!
So how will I accomplish these goals?
Well, I hope to achieve the first 2 by making good food choices and exercising more. I've joined Chick Challenge for Change. Check out their blog: Chick Challenge for Change.
The third one is the most important, as our thoughts steer our whole life. So, how can I get into the habit of taking every thought captive? It's not easy, it takes discipline to break an old habit and start a new one. But I've set my resolve on starting this new habit. (Hence the word Resolution, which stems from the word Resolve. Or maybe it's visa versa.)
Anyway, I am starting simple, by focusing on three things:
1) I start a scripture memory class in January.
2) I'll continue my Precepts Bible Study that I love so much!
3) I'm placing a sentry guard at the gateway to my mind. My job is to equip that guard with a two edged sword. (Which reverts back to item number one.)
My sister-in-law recently shared a devotion with me from Mary Southerland Today's Truth dated December 29, 2009, titled Let me think about it! I keep reading it over and over. Here's a short excerpt:
“To live right, we must think right. Proverbs 23:7 (NASB) says it well, "For as he thinks within himself, so he is." Everything we do or say originates with a single thought. Filling our minds with truth will fill our lives with truth. Isaiah says "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, whose thoughts are fixed on You." (Isaiah 26:3 NLT) In this verse, fixed" literally means "loyal or faithful" and refers to the same kind of faithfulness found in marriage. In order to discipline and guard our thoughts, we must make the commitment of being married to the truth of God.
If, however, our minds are not filled with truth, the enemy will pollute them with lies. Polluted minds produce polluted lives but mind pollution can only happen with our permission. I am amazed at how many of us rarely have a fresh word from God or a new truth found in a daily quiet time with Him. God's Word is a powerful purification system for the mind, reprogramming and training thoughts to line up according to God's standards. Depositing God's Word into the mind results in a holy discernment and God-given strength to recognize and turn away from sin. It is the idea of placing a sentry or guard at the entrance of the mind, giving him the authority to determine what does or does not come in.”
Oh how I greatly desire regular fresh words of truth from God. I need to get back into the habit of talking my thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ. (II Cor. 10:5) My resolve is set.
So, here's to a new and improved 2010. Blessings to you all!
My vest with tons of dangling stockings, won second place and Derek's tree with teddy bears climbing amongst the branches won first place.
And then we had a contest to make 
It was easy and they turned out really nice. (Thank you 
