Resolute

Merry Christmas to you!  Can you believe next week is 2018?  First, I am wondering where 2017 went to so quickly!  Seems we were just ringing in the new year and now, we are about to see the next one come in.  2017 was a great year, it brought us much happiness, but also quite a bit of uncertainty. I often feel as if I am doing my most important job incorrectly. 

My kids are getting older...we are now outnumbered by teenagers.  And, with teenagers comes a whole new mindset.  I hate that we ever introduced smart phones to our kids, YouTube, Snap Chat, Instagram...you name it!  It is hard having a conversation with them or to sit down and watch a movie as a family without their phones in their hands...Adam included.  How do you unhook after you have allowed them to immerse themselves into today's technology?  I struggle with this.  

On one hand, there are so many things they need access to for school.  They check their grades and assignments online and also do a fair amount of research. However, on the other hand...too much information is too much. The amount of time they spend online is staggering and only a small amount of time is school related.  Do I cut them off completely?  Do I set a limit for them?  If so, how do I monitor that?  I am away from home a bit in the evenings running to get kids back and forth from school, practices, bible study and just time with friends.  Technology has become my babysitter!  But, I am ready to fire my babysitter.  Gone are the days of popping Barney into the VHS and when it was over, we were done.  Netflix has made it so easy to continue watching...and they are kind enough to check-in to see if you would like to continue watching.

I "divorced" cable TV about 2 years ago.  We only use an external antenna and subscribe to, you guessed it, Netflix & Hulu.  We are a completely web based family.  This makes my decision making even tougher.  I have begun thinking about what resolutions I would like to make for 2018 and taking the kids off their phones is at the top of that list.  Guess I better start brainstorming how to make this happen.

I am making my list here, because I will hold myself more accountable because everyone can see it.

1. Limiting internet services as a family.
2. Lose another 40 pounds.  I've already lost 40 in 2017...YAY me!
3. Blog life so my family can someday look back and read about themselves and maybe have a good laugh/cry.
4. Say yes more than I say no...which will make #1 difficult!
5. Save more money and cut out frivolous spending.
6. Patience!  (have more of it!!)

I would love to hear how you have handled phone limitations with your children.  I hope 2018 is full of great times and wonderful memories for you all!

Also, if you would kindly add my very special uncle to your prayers, i would very much appreciate it.  He is having a lung biopsy Wednesday due to a growing spot on his lung.  I trust the Lord will see him through any obstacle!