So Monday got off to a great start with a stabbing pain in my side, right under my ribs. I could not stand up straight for the pain so I called the doctor & got in an emergency slot…only to be told my stomach is “twitchy” anyway and if the pain doesn't subside in two weeks to come back & get an ultrasound. Twitchy??? For pity's sake. (and yes, it still hurts but not as intensely.

Last night was our first bible study of the new year and I thought it went well. I came home and started doing some things around the house and encountered a huge spider in the basement. If you know me, you know arachnids are not my friends so I was all twitchy about that all night (and am afraid to go back down even now.). Then about half an hour after going to bed, I woke up in a completely agitated state. I think this was a combination of my lovely neighbor doing wash at midnight (again…though sometimes it is at 4, so I guess I was lucky) and drying on the cycle that buzzes every five minutes until apparently the end of time plus Norman desperately trying to kill Ramona and Nellie. Plus probably my thoughts on the arachnid…so it was not a good night.

Here's hoping tonight is better-i am exhausted.

There seems to be something motivating in having a treadmill in the bedroom, right in my line of sight when I am trying to veg out. What I would like would be the ability to get up & is it first thing in the morning. Right now, though, my goal is to get to work on time…and I'll take it from there.

On another note, I am strangely fascinated by the Iowa caucaus. I haven't a clue who I will vote for but I am interested most in the character of those running. Some did not have my respect for the word go; some have lost it in recent days. I understand attack ads are part of it but it is a part I can't abide.

…and trying to blog mobiley (is that even a word?!?). We'll see if it works!

I don’t really like to make resolutions so much as goals for the new year. I’ve been pondering them, trying to make them most realistic and workable…so here they are:

*Read through the Bible this year
*Exercise at least three times a week
*Maintain a more healthy eating plan (based on what the nutritionist is working on with me)
*Manage my finances better

There are other, less lofty things…but for now, these are in the forefront. Wish me luck!

2008 is finally upon us. I had a great time last night at the church’s new year’s eve/10th anniversary party. It was actually much more fun than I thought it would be. I was home by 1:15 or so and got to bed by 2…then got up this morning to prepare for my annual Open House. I had about 40 people in and out and had a really nice time. It was great to see everyone and hang out.

I was a little depressed after everyone left though – partly because the holidays are over (and I have to clean up!) but mainly because my dear friends Trish & Jack will be moving this year. We talked about it some today because they’ll be looking at houses this coming weekend and hope to move by June. I knew this was coming but for some reason it hit me hard tonight after they headed home.

How is it that the year flies by so quickly? Before I know it, summer will be here and with it, workcamp!

I’ve been thinking a lot about resolutions…maybe goals being a better word. My friend Nan & I used to share ours to help each other be accountable; maybe I will have to suggest that again. Posting them here too will make me accountable but I need to get my thoughts clearer before putting them down in print.

So right now, I am watching Steel Magnolias, copying my cds to the computer (so I can finally get my iPod back in action), purging my closet, dresser & sweater chest and making plans for two upcoming parties. Meanwhile, the upstairs neighbor apparently has invited a herd of wild elephants over. My apartment is literally shaking. The cats are scared out of their wits and I am about to lose my mind. One of these times, someone is going to come crashing right through my ceiling…