On this last day of the year, our family is looking ahead while tying up 2013 and ringing in 2014.

As we are underway in our current remodeling project – redecorating our children’s bedrooms – and out-of-town family is still visiting, we are glancing back and pressing forward.

Tying up 2013

The end of the year is a good stopping point. Though I may not be done with my 2013 goals, I take time to reflect and evaluate.

As I was thinking about the lessons I learned, I realized the growth I’ve experienced this year by focusing on my priorities, investing in true friendships, and refusing to feel guilty when I declined an opportunity that conflicted with my priorities.

In tying up 2013, I found these two exercises fun and helpful:

1. 2013 Time Capsule from Amy McGuire @ The Finer Things in Life

This fun printable is great for each family member to fill out. Hide the pages away or stuff them in a paper towel holder with aluminum foil rubber banded on each end. You can either bury it or store it away in your Christmas items for next year.

This is our first year filling out a time capsule form, so we’ll see if this becomes one of our family’s traditions. I think we will store our forms with our Christmas items as we keep our decorations up until after the start of a new year.

2. 20 Questions for a New Year’s Eve Reflection written by Tsh Oxenreider @ The Art of Simple (formerly Simply Mom).

These 20 questions focus on the specifics of 2013. If you journal, these are great starting points. Not into writing and journaling, no problem. Tsh included a printable form with the 20 questions if you would like to record your answers and then look them over next year to see how far you’ve grown.

Ringing in 2014

Miss 6 is ready for New Year’s Eve night. One of our favorite traditions is to eat crackers with “squirt” cheese – making smiling faces and mini towers – while we wait for the ball to drop. Usually we all huddle into the master bedroom bed and snuggle up together watching the firework displays outside.

Yes, crumbs get everywhere, but that is why we have a vacuum cleaner. 😉 It’s one night, and these together moments bring excitement and enjoyment to the start of our new year.

If you are looking for ideas for ringing in 2014, check out these additional resources:

1. Dixie cup party lights from The Krazy Coupon Lady to spice up any room in your home.

2. Party ideas from Celebrations.

3. A midnight dinner idea from Money Crashers.

4. 6 different New Year’s party themes at International Business Times.

Whether you are throwing the bash of the year or spending New Year’s Eve quietly at home, may you continue using time wisely tying up 2013 and ringing in 2014. See you in the New Year!

Happy New Year’s Eve!

Question: How you are planning to ring in 2014?