I had prepared a post related to the horrific events in Tucson, but then decided I didn’t want to add to the chaos and inflammatory discourse. Instead, I thought I’d relate how I’ve decided that January has been a perfect time to transition toward a new year.

I didn’t come by this concept naturally. I often feel like the week between Christmas and New Year’s is the time to purge, organize, wipe the slate clean, so to speak. I did that last year and it felt right. This year, though, inactivity during that week brought peace and calm.

It was tempting to feel as though Jan. 1 came and went and I missed the opportunity to reboot.

I decided that February is just as good as January for that purpose and January is a good time to prepare for it. I’ve adjusted my morning prayer routine a bit and am liking it. I’m trying out some new ways to keep everyone on track to do their school work. I’m trying new things in the kitchen. I’m thinking about some goals I have for the year. The weather has cooperated. When it’s snowy outside, normal life gets put on hold. Yesterday brought a houseful of kids who were off from school. Math and some writing was the only official school that happened for my family. Not to worry, play and snow shoveling in the fresh air fire those synapses, too. Not sure if Wii does, though. Oh well.

If I can articulate specifics, I’ll post about them because I have found that accountability motivates me and hopefully you, too-if you need it.