TTT - the 2012 Resolutions Edition

Now that the Christmas hangover has well and truly worn off, it is time to start mulling over my goals for 2012.  Admittedly, I don't normally go for resolutions, per se, as I tend to disappoint myself quite early on in the game and that just gets depressing.  This year, though, I really want to set myself some challenges, just to see how I go.  So here is a list of what I want to do/try/achieve over the next 12 months.

1.  GET FIT & HEALTHY

I know, I know... this is a common "resolution" for women (and men?) all over the world but, hey, I figure putting it out there might, just might, force my hand.  The story is simple - since hooking up with Mr C approximately 2.5 years ago, I have stacked on at least 10kgs (22pd) and it is seriously driving me mad (and my friends and loved ones are sick of hearing me whinge about it).  I have half-heartedly attempted to lose it here and there but it is now time to get S.E.R.I.O.U.S (said with Aretha Franklin's sass and style)!

To achieve this goal I need to do the normal things (ie increase activity, decrease intake) so I have started stocking the pantry and fridge with all the good stuff and I have joined a gym (and, yes, actually worked out).  BUT... I also need to learn to respect myself and my body and, honestly, that is the hardest part for me.  I am the emotional eater of emotional eaters so I need to learn to care about myself.  And then, once I manage that, I will look like this.

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Ok, ok, looking like Jennifer Hawkins might be stretching the envelope just a tad but a fitter, healthier, happier version of me is definitely an achievable goal so it's on the list (and staying).  Bring on the lettuce!  ;)

2.  INCREASE MY WORKLOAD

No, that is not a mistake - unlike most people who are overworked and overtired - I am keen to step it up.  I've mentioned once or twice before that I have been battling with depression and, not surprisingly, this has impacted my ability to hold down a job.  Don't get me wrong, I have had some fantastic employers in my time and, upon learning of my illness, have bent over backwards trying to accommodate me as best as possible but, unfortunately, my feelings of guilt go into overdrive and, against the advice of pretty much everyone, I invariably quit.

Now that I am definitely on the mend I am looking forward to picking up some more hours (somewhere!) and stretching myself in a variety of ways.  Even though I'm not after the big bucks, often choosing to work for not-for-profits and the like, I can't lie - some extra cash would certainly come in handy too.  Especially as I have my eye on one of these.

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Or maybe not.  But at least more $$$ = more fabric.  Ooo yeah!

3.  QUILT, QUILT & QUILT SOME MORE

Ok, enough of the heavy stuff... let's get onto the fun stuff.  This year I finally managed to try my hand at quilting - and was so excited to finish my first ever quilt in August.  Since then I have done a lot of playing and reading and piecing but am still yet to complete another quilted project (well... besides a mug rug or two).  Ahh!  So, a definite goal for 2012 is to finish some of my WIPs (ha!) and have a go at some of those on my to-do list. Like, a plus quilt.  And a snowball quilt.  And a scrappy quilt.  And... uh oh...

4.  LEARN TO CROCHET

Lately I have been struggling to teach myself to crochet.  I say "struggling" because it is really not going very well.  At all.  I've read books and watched online vids... and practised, practised, practised... but I still just don't get it.  So I aim to rectify that and finish a crochetted item this year.  Even if it means staking out an old folks' home.  ;)

My latest inspiration to conquer the hook is from Tracey of Cotton and Card who makes a range of gorgeous items, including these adorable bags.

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Cute, no?

5.  TO MARKET, TO MARKET

2012 will also be the year of my first market stall (how's that for positive thinking?).  I envisage getting busy and sewing lots of fantastic items and selling up big.  Ha!  Well... I can try.  If I don't perfect crochet in time then maybe I'll have to make a few more of these Easy Girl Dolls instead.

Aww... maybe I need to make one just for me first.  ;)

Lastly, to prove that I haven't just been thinking but have actually been doing, here is my latest project, another Mod Mosaic Pillow.  This one is 16" and made using Terrain by Kate Spain.  Yum!  It is a lot more eclectic and busier than my previous effort but it is definitely growing on me.

Any suggestions on how to quilt it though?  Don't cater your answer to my (lack of) skills... let me know exactly what you would want to do.  I need to extend myself so would love your input.  Thanks!

Hope your goal list for 2012 is looking good too.  Not long now til we wave goodbye to 2011!  Happy New Year!

E.




I'm desperately hoping that Making Rebecca Lynne is hosting Thursday Think Tank this week so I can link up.  Fingers crossed!  No pressure, though, Becca.  ;)