Happy 2011! After all the holiday celebrations, it is back to work for most of us (including me). I hope you all had the opportunity to relax, sleep, eat and unwind during the break. Also that you received and gave wonderful gifts :) Last year I did not get the chance to make or post my new year's resolutions because I started the year being sick. So for 2011, I have the following goals:
1. Exercise and eat more healthy foods
I have started allotting an hour a day for this - either by playing table tennis on the Wii (yes, this was my Christmas gift from my hubby) or the Just Dance program. I have also started making a conscious effort to make more healthy food-choices.
2. Be debt-free and save 10% of what I make monthly
I incurred a lot of medical bills the early part of 2010 and it was tough on our budget. We still have a few of those bills to pay but those are now more manageable. But regardless of how little or how much I make, I think it is important to make saving a part of my lifestyle. Although I only survive on a meager grad school stipend, I could still try to save a portion of it for future use (emergencies, big purchase etc.).
3. Complete my requirements for one class before April 2011
I had an incomplete grade in one of my classes last spring semester due to my illness. I have to start writing those papers this month! I need to really be disciplined with my time and just get them done.
4. Have a positive and grateful attitude
Life will always have its ups and downs and I want to be able to enjoy it more by having a thankful spirit and focusing on the blessings that I receive daily. This needs to be a conscious effort as I am the type who worries a whole lot!
So those are my goals for now . . . I figured I should make my goals short and doable - hence I am only starting with four. I can always add more goals as I go along the year. In this way, it doesn't feel too overwhelming.
Anyway, as my small way of thanking you all for supporting my blog and being with me in my Alaskan journey, I am hosting a $10 Target giveaway. All you have to do is be a GFC follower of blog (if you are already a follower, you can join too - just comment that you are following my via Google Friend Connect). You get an additional entry if you follow me on Twitter (@mandalarctic). I will pick a winner on February 14.
Thanks!



































































































