Back in the beginning of 2011, I wrote a post about a vision board I created in a workshop at Phoenix & Dragon, the metaphysical bookstore I hang around to gain a more spiritual outlook. They didn’t have it last year for 2012. But this year they are, so I’m going over there on Jan. 6, to create anew for 2013.

Much of my 2011 board seems to have either happened, or to be in the works. Looks like I’ll have to wait longer to meet Oprah. I put her picture on my board two times in 2011. This year I’ll increase that number to be sure the Universe heard me.

One picture I used on my board was of a brain with a magnifying glass in it. I meant that picture to say, “Innovative ideas for making money, please.” And this year I have started making an all-natural deodorant that really works. I’m getting great response from those using it and my chiropractor is even selling it in her office. I think this idea has real potential for me.

I’ve heard a lot of people confess that 2012, wasn’t a great year – the same way I felt about 2010. It could not have gone out fast enough for me. 2011 wasn’t all that great either. But in 2012, I saw a turnaround for myself and my family. For the family, we seem to be moving in a more forward direction than previous years. The building market, where Hubby earns a living, is improving. Without the stress, home is a much happier place. For myself, I am more confident about my writing; more entrenched in my spiritual pursuits. I’m happy to be me – feeling I am able to stand in my own truth much more easily.

Standing in my own truth was my 2012 resolution. I decided I would actually be myself to everyone, everywhere. I would be honest with my likes and dislikes. I would say, no, activities that I don’t enjoy or want to do. I would do things I want to do and ask for what I want, without fear of not being liked or making those around me angry. It’s more than all of that, but this is the best way I can explain what I mean. It boils down to what I said to begin with: 2012 was the year of standing in my own truth; let come what may.

And what came was a bunch of great stuff. The “stuff,” though great, wasn’t easy, but in the end I think I’ve grown. That’s what makes it great.

I can’t say I stuck to my resolution all of the time; if it was easy I would have been doing it my whole life.

But the result of my declaration is that I feel less fearful of life. I feel less fearful to speak my truth and talk with people. And, I feel less afraid when I make a mistake. I am able to not beat up on myself so much. The tape in my head is much nicer to me now. The only tape that runs too much negativity is my “mom reel,” which I assume is the hardest one of all to record over. Try as I might, I can’t reconcile myself to feel like a perfect mother! Ha ha.

To round out 2012, this past Saturday, I talked Hubby into a puppy. She’s a schnoodle – a schnauzer-poodle mix. We named her Iris, who is the Greek goddess of Rainbows and the deliverer of nectar to the gods. Hubby says it’s an old lady’s name. I say she’ll grow into it. I love her. I even love taking her outside to the bathroom, even in the cold or the rain. The kids love her too and won’t let her feet touch the floor when she is inside. And I know Hubby loves her too. I saw him give her a kiss when he thought no one was looking.

2012 was a fine year and I can say I kept my resolution. For 2013, my resolution is to make money, to have a taste of financial independence, by doing things that bring me fulfillment; like writing and my deodorant business.

Like many women who stay at home with their kids “for a living,” I just want a little money in the bank with my own name on it. When I say “financial independence,” I may not mean the same as other people claiming independence. I shy away from complete work immersion so I can still bake cookies after school if I so choose.

It’s more like being able to pay for things I want without having to consider too many factors in my spending. Like yoga classes, or writing seminars I want to attend, or even putting the kids in activities (those things can add up quick!). Or maybe I could hire someone to help me organize my house for 2013. That could surely add up to what someone makes for a year’s salary. And those who have come to my house recently would not disagree, I know, that this would be a great way to spend my money.

In any case, I am excited to make my vision board this weekend. I am going to take the kids and let them make a board too. Nathan is already planning his. He came with me before, but this will be Jessie’s first time.

The money is one thing I will include on my board, and Oprah. Some things pop up when I am going through the magazines. Things I didn’t know I had feelings about. I’m already envisioning 2013 as a productive, honest, happy, learning, spiritually fulfilling year. My board will reflect this, and my heart is already open to it.

Today I will see myself as part of the Light of the Universe. I welcome new experiences and I send out light and blessings to all!