new.

Sigh.

New. 

It's such a great word.

So fresh.  So promising.  So full of hope.

Happy New Year, friends.

Here we are.  January 1st.

I used to set goals for the new year in several different categories.

• Faith
• Health
• Finances
• Career
• Marriage & Parenting
• Friendships
• Fun

I made these big elaborate lists and sometimes I stuck to one or two of my "resolutions".

A few years ago, however, I began trying to really focus in on one word or phrase each new year.  

One year it was "balance", another year it was "no".  

"Intentional."

​"Peace."

This year, I've had three words and/or phrases running through my mind over the last few weeks, so I think I'll use them all as my focus for 2018.

Be transformed.

Our minister has been preaching for the last several weeks on the transformation that should come from knowing Jesus.

I want to focus this year on being transformed because of Who Jesus is.  

I want people to be able to see Him in every aspect of my life.

I want to be transformed.

Unplug.

I read an article this week about the addictive nature of a cell phone for young kids.

I was convicted about the addictive nature of technology for myself.

I know that technology can be a good thing, but I think sometimes satan uses good things to distract us from our purpose.

The purpose of being a good wife.

...of raising Kingdom kids.

...of building deep relationships with people.

...of creating a home environment that is beautiful for our families.

...of taking care of ourselves so we can pour into others.

This year I will set limitations on social media usage and spend more time focusing on face-to-face interaction with those I love.

Do fewer things, better.

I am notorious for working hard to balance too many spinning plates.

I can usually multi-task without much problem. 

I say "yes" often to lighten the load for others.

I get a lot accomplished and a lot of times, those accomplishments are just "good enough". 

This year, I want to simplify.
To minimize.
To do fewer things and to do them better.

What are your goals for 2018? 
Do you set resolutions? 
If you could choose one word to take with you this year...what would it be?

Make it a great year, friends!

New Year's Love from the Farmhouse,
Hannah

​❤️🏡❤️