32 Things....

Today is my birthday. During the chaos of my day today, I have actually had time to reflect on the things in my life that really matter the most. I thought I would list 32 things (since I am now 32 years old) that I have learned or am working on in my old age. :)

1) Try to be positive. Sometimes it takes more energy, but it sure makes life more pleasant.
2) Tell those close to you that you love them at least once a day.
3) Play with your kids. They will only be little for a short time.
4) When you are feeling down, do something nice for someone else. It will make you feel better.
5) Take time out for yourself.
6) Always put yourself in other's shoes. The clerk who isn't so friendly at the grocery store may just be having a bad day. We all have our challenges. Give people the benefit of the doubt.
7) Sleep when your kids sleep and don't fell guilty about it!
8) Try to be spontaneous.
9) Travel and experience other cultures. It helps you appreciate what you have and what others our contributing to our world.
10) Try to laugh when you want to cry.
11) Pray with your kids. Teach them about the gospel. You only have a few short years where your influence will be the most important one in their lives.
12) Contribute to your community, whether through volunteering or financial support.
13) Hold onto good friendships. Women need good girlfriends. I'm thankful for loyal ones.
14) Try new things.
15) Laugh at yourself if you try new things and you aren't any good at them.
16) Dance, or watch So You Think You Can Dance. :)
17) Read to your kids and take time to read books for yourself.
18) Go on walks with your family.
19) Stay close to your parents. They will end up being some of your best friends.
20) Be comfortable in your own skin. (I'm really working on this one.)
21) Try to stay close to your husband, even when he is busy with his job and you are busy with your kids.
22) Cook. For me, it is therapeutic.
23) Record memories for your posterity. Thank goodness for blogs!
24) Admit when you need help. (I'm working on this one too!)
25) Have "special time" with each of your kids.
26) Appreciate what you have been blessed with in your life. Don't take it for granted.
27) Try not to feel guilty about too many things.
28) Try to be a peace maker.
29) Don't be too sensitive. Try not to take things too seriously. (Also working on this!)
30) Communicate, communicate, communicate.
31) Eat chocolate.
32) Live in the moment. (I'm trying to be better at this too!)

What have you learned?