Mulligans and Sex

Three weeks in to 2010 and all is well. Very well. Here is part of the reason...I am not approaching the new changes I am making in my life like I have in previous seasons. I would be so black and white with the improvements I wanted to make, that I would quit the first few times I had a relapse. Not this time. I am giving myself some "mulligans"...some do-overs...perhaps even some grace. Then I adjust, and get right back at it.

Here are some of the things I've challenged myself with (man, after I give these out, I am real accountable!). I am only eating when I'm hungry. What an eye-opener! Couldn't believe how much I had been snacking on just to snack. I am literally eating about half the content I did before and about a third of the sugar. I've lost 5 pounds. Pretty cool.

Time Management is another biggie. I am very focused on being more productive while at work and home. Less TV time and more people and project time. It's been tough because I really love my DVR. I decided to blog now instead of plop in front of the tube. Better use of time.

People Passion is back in my life. Loving and caring for people has to be intentional. It's not a feeling - it's an action. When I think about someone, I am trying to follow it up with a postcard, email, etc. It's time consuming, but if my time management is good (see above), I have more time to be a cheerleader in people's lives (whoa...me in a cheerleader outfit is a creepy snapshot).

Loving my Wife is maybe my highest priority improvement. Always loved her, but am intent on treating her like the queen she is. Being more mature toward her (tougher than I thought). I have a habit of bugging her on purpose...smacks on the butt, talking to her in a funny voice, and following her around like a stalker have all faded to a whimper. Asking her about her job and then listening to the answer, intentional acts of kindness, and a constant attitude of respect are now in. Seems to be working....very well. (Men, the previous paragraph is really good advice to follow, no matter who you're married to).

Alright, this blog does mention mulligans but does not mention anything about sex. Figured this blog would be read, like, 23 times more if that was in the title. Just a little experiment. Must have worked because you're reading this. Hope it's OK if even us preacher guys toss out a wry sense of humor once in a while.