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I know, I know--these yearly projects keep floating around that we all know we'll never keep up with. But that doesn't stop me from trying! Today I noticed this #janphotoaday tag going around Instagram, and after a little web snooping, I realized everyone was diving into the Photo-a-Day challenge spurred by Fat Mum Slim.

So, I guess I'm diving in with everyone else since I figure I use Instagram every day anyway. Follow along with me! I'm @amorby. Happy January 1st! Here's to hoping we all stick to our new projects.

Well wouldn't you know it? Christmas has completely come and gone, and here we are facing a brand new year. I must confess that I don't exactly look forward to the new year like most people do. Change and I don't really have the best relationship. And to be completely honest, January and I are bitter enemies with a time-tested grudge yet to be assuaged by any instance of good January luck.

The past 5 Januarys have all left me on my knees--hospital stays, dropping out of college for health problems, unemployment--you name it. At this point, January has become one enormous, looming, self-fulfilling prophecy, and try as I might, every January seems to be the same.

This year, as much as I'd love to make resolutions like everyone else and look toward 2012 with a positive heart full of motivation, I think I'm going to make a resolution to give up on the disappointment of resolutions, let down any iota of expectations for the new year, and completely devote myself to living in the moment. That is my one wish for 2012--to let go of the past and put no harsh, self-defeating expectations on my future.

Before you quit reading and say "Amy! You are crazy! Goals are good for you!" let me just give you one simple plea.

When you make your goals this year, please by ALL means, just be kind to yourself. Make kind resolutions that don't make you feel guilty for what you're NOT doing--make resolutions that inspire you to add something to improve the person you already are.

Please don't hate your body. Please don't start the year off with guilt-ridden feelings and anger toward your greatest asset. Remember that it's impossible to achieve everything. Remind yourself that what you have already accomplished is phenomenal, and rather than feel guilty for what you're not doing, look for something that will enhance what you ARE doing.

Life is too short to create unattainable goals that will only bring guilt and self-defeating thoughts. Of course we should all move onward and upward and become the best person possible, but I am a firm believer that a positive self-image and self respect are the greatest motivational and inspiring tools out there.

And now that I've laid down the heavy Amy's life lessons talk, I'll just say I hope you had a fantastic holiday  break with your loved ones and that 2012 brings you everything amazing with some magic thrown in for good measure.

Now go forth and set your kind resolutions! Or join me in setting none and simply committing to a year of positive vibes and living in the moment. Whatever you do, just love yourself, ya hear?

Well, all of you Christmas champions, I'm off for a glorious Christmas break. I thought I'd leave you with the Christmas card we sent out this year and a gigantic Merry Christmas from all of us.

I hope you all have a glorious holiday filled with family, all the food you can possibly imagine, and lots of good lovin. Thank you for being a reader and for making this month spectacular. <3

MERRY CHRISTMAS!