Prepare yourself for a change in writing styles and a much more personal look in the people behind Kella Design. Here goes…..my first blog entry.

Between having two full-time jobs, a toddler – who is just learning to walk,  and so many responsibilities I can barely keep track of them all; it seems that lately life just slips by without notice.
That’s why instead of giving up chocolate, soda or the F word for lent (mostly because I realize those are all impossible and vital for my well-being) – I have decided to take time to focus on the things that are important in life; family, friends and good old fashion FUN!

I don’t necessarily think I am unique when I say that life is hectic and sometimes I lose track of what really matters but, just in case you need some help staying on track – here are 10 things to make time for in your life:

1. Take time to think – it’s the source of power.
Thinking doesn’t always have to be focused and work-related. Take a break and make an errand list, plan a much needed vacation to somewhere warm or review your calendar for a break in the day for a nap

2. Take time to read – it’s the foundation of wisdom.
I am guilty of not doing this often enough. Actually, I think it’s fair to say I almost never read, especially if skimming doesn’t constitute as reading. The last time I read a lot of information was before our daughter was born. Mainly because I had the time then but, also because I felt it was necessary to consume every bit of knowledge in relation to raising a child – so I could try to avoid “messing her up in my own special way.” Now that our daughter, Ella is here – I realize that messing her up is inevitable and my only goal is that she is breathing each day….and smiling most days.

3. Take time to play – it’s the secret of staying young.
In my opinion, this is the greatest piece of advice and the one that we do not take advantage of often enough. Joe and I always talk about “if we work so hard now, we can play later.” But, sometimes later never comes and we just keep working. Take a vacation, you won’t regret it.

4. Take time to be quiet – it’s the moment you may never get back.
Before I became a mom I LOVED driving in the car by myself so I could blare the radio and jam at the top of my lungs to all of my favorite songs. Now, my morning commute (less than 5 minutes) is filled with nothing but silence. The reason – it’s the ONLY privacy and alone time I get in the day. I am no longer able to use the restroom, take a bath, or lay in my bed – without a little munchkin/shadow on top of my every move. Cherish moments of silence, they are invaluable!

5. Take time to be aware – it’s the opportunity to help others.
Joe gives me crap all the time for being too nice and thinking of others before myself. I guess it’s in my blood. My whole life I have been surrounded by a family that would give anything to help others and be there for  no matter what. I wouldn’t change a thing from my upbringing and I wouldn’t trade the closeness of my family for anything. I do agree with Joe though, sometimes I do neglect to think of myself but, at the same time – the feeling you get when you do something nice for someone else is indescribable.

6. Take time to love and be loved – it’s God’s greatest gift.
Love, such a tricky thing. Even though it was assumed, I grew up in a family that never exchanged hugs and “I love you’s.” You never know how important those opportunities are until you lose someone and you didn’t tell them how you felt. For this reason, I will always make sure Joe and Ella, and even our puppies know how much I love them and what I would give for them. At the end of the day, the four people/puppies within these walls and the love they give me – keeps me going and I owe them the same.

7. Take time to laugh – it’s the music of the soul.
Don’t take life too seriously. In my opinion, laughter is appropriate for all situations in life and a sense of humor will take you a long way. The ability to take a joke and roll with it is one of the best assets a person can have. I hope to die with lots of wrinkles, all of them from laughing (and squinting in the sun). Plus, laughter is good for your health. Don’t believe me? Read this article (http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm)

8. Take time to be friendly – it’s the road to happiness.
My goal is to be friendly to every person I encounter throughout my life path, no matter who they are. Not only does it feel good to make new friends but, you never know who you will meet or where life’s path will lead you. I would like to believe that good things happen to good people so I will continue to try to make that a reality. Whether that means giving money to a homeless person on the street or helping an elderly woman carry her bags – I will do it, even if it does make me a schmuck.

9. Take time to dream – it’s what the future is made of.
I am so grateful for Joe. I sometimes make fun of him for having his “head in the clouds” but his ability to dream is so admirable and possesses a child-like innocence. I on the other hand,  am the complete opposite end of the spectrum. Some may call me a pessimist but I choose the term, realist. Joe helps me see all the possibilities in life and gives me the strength to go for what I want and to never settle. So – go, float in the clouds – what’s it going to hurt?

10. Take time to pray – it’s the greatest power on earth.
No matter what higher power you believe in, it’s nice to have someone or something to talk to in times of need. I think praying represents hope and without hope for a better tomorrow, there is no point in living today. Pray for some rest, your sanity, sunshine, a new car – if anything praying lets you take your mind off of other chaotic things in life to focus on your needs.

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