“The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter. ’tis the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.” Mark Twain

Welcome to a New Year: 2016 Word - and Goals

I am a goal person. Those of you who have followed this blog for a while (or know me) realize that. So, even though some folks like the idea of "just" picking a word for the year - it doesn't work for me.

This is my third year with a one word theme. I strongly recommend it. My 2015 word, "closer," definitely kept me moving this past year. And I am extremely excited to see what God does with my word for 2016. And what word would that be?

TRUTH 

There are 217 verses in God's Word with the word "truth" in them (NJV). In addition to trying to keep the word at the forefront, and keep my actions, thoughts, and emotions in line with God's many truths, I will spend 2016 reading, studying, and taking notes on each of those verses and attempting to apply them to my life. I can't wait to see what God does!

And now to goals for 2016. After reviewing my 2015 goals, I have come up with the following:

Life/General Goals 
  • Eat Healthier: drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer sweets
  • Get house organized and sorted, concluding with a garage sale
Writing Goals 
  • Writing or editing my children's writing a minimum of an hour each week 
  • Read and take notes on at least 300 new to me, and published in 2011 or later, picture books
  • Participate in: ReviMo, ReFoReMo(?), Kidlit Summer School, PiBoIdMo, Debut PB Study Group, at least one class or additional challenge, and my in-person critique group
  • Use RateYourStory at least twice
  • Have at least one picture book manuscript ready for submission
So - there you have it! Happy New Year - and I'd LOVE to hear your plans for 2016!

DO YOU PICK A WORD FOR THE YEAR? WHAT IS IT? HOW ABOUT GOALS?

 
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer. Psalm 45:1

My One Word: 2016 and 2017

Most who know me know I am a very goal-oriented person (in fact, I already shared my goal wrap-up for 2016 and my new ones for 2017 on this...