Top New Year's Resolution of a Busy Mom

As we come to the close of yet another year, I tend to ponder both my blessings and hardships of the year prior. Granted, as a working mother of two boys, I lead a very busy life; and tend to get caught up in the "when" and "where" aspects of busy schedules. In 2009, my biggest resolution is to verve away from the mechanics of life, and lean more towards what is really important ...spending quality time with my treasured family. The time to embrace quality family time is NOW, before driving, dating, and college (gasp). In order to achieve this goal, I promise to do the following:

1) Appreciate Those Rare Moments

So often, we busy moms get caught up in carpools and such that we forget to stop and smell the proverbial roses. In 2009, I vow to worry less about schedules, and to stop and enjoy the special moments that pass by too quickly.

2) Stress Less Over the Mundane

In 2009, I make a personal promise to worry less about mundane things. You fellow busy moms know what I'm talking about. I will not stay up late to fold and put away that last load of laundry. Instead, I'll take an extra 20 minutes to soak in the tub. My psyche and family will be happier when I make this choice.

3) Make New Friends, But Keep the Old

New neighbors and friends are wonderful. Old friends are golden. I promise to stay in touch and nourish both old and new friends. When we busy moms turn to friends, it makes life brighter and easier to manage. Nothing beats a tried and true support system.

4) Enjoy Old Fashioned Pleasures

Video games and I-pods and Blackberries...oh my! Life can run more efficiently with these gadgets, but I've become too dependent upon them. I resolve to turn off my cell phone at night, stash the Ipod in a drawer, and ban video games after 7:00. We will play Monopoly as a family. I will make a personal phone call instead of sending an E-mail message. We will actually sit in the living room together, and converse about our day.

5) Laugh Often and Worry Less

There is no stronger medicine for curing life's ills than good old-fashioned laughter. I vow to fret less over things out of my control, and try to see the humorous side of life. I've always been a "glass half full" kind of person, but I can also stress about mundane details. Water guns, funny anecdotes and silly jokes can do wonders to bring laughter into the house.

I wish you all a 2009 filled with promise, laughter and love.