Changes & Goals for 2019!
Well you knew it was coming, right?! It’s time to sit down with a cup of coffee and share a little about my goals and intentions for 2019. I actually wasn’t even sure if I wanted to write about it this year, but I can’t help it. I LOVE the month of January because to me it signifies a new beginning. A new chapter of our story and the opportunity to set things fresh with new hope and new dreams. And I thought it would be fun today to just do a little recap of 2018, as well as share my goals and intentions for 2019. I also have two exciting changes to share with you all as well, so grab yourself a snack, maybe even nice beverage, and get comfy–this is a long one!
Looking back, 2018 was a GREAT year. I had so many amazing moments, both in my blogging life and in my personal life. I had the opportunity to travel to Magnolia Market with KILZ, my work was featured in several magazines throughout the year, and I stayed true to commitments I made to myself regarding the blog and Instagram. My kids and husband were safe and healthy and we shared many sweet memories together. I worked tirelessly towards my goals in 2018, but I have to admit that at times I struggled with burnout and just feeling worn thin in many areas of my life. I’m still trying to figure out how to be a great mom to three little ones while also pursuing my dreams and passions. It’s definitely not easy, and many days my brain feels like a scrambled mess. It takes a lot of late nights, early mornings, and just plain hard work to get it all done, but I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to chase my dreams and be home with my babies, which will always be my number one priority.
I have so many things I want to do better in 2019, but here are a few of my personal goals and intentions for the new year:
- Pray more. This is my number one goal for the new year. I want to pray more specifically and seek God’s wisdom in everything I do–both with the blog and in my personal life as well.
- Be on my phone less every day, which means less time on Instagram even if that means I’m falling behind or losing ground with that wonky algorithm.
- Take care of me. In 2019 I want to do things again that I enjoy doing like working out, traveling, reading, etc. Things that I LOVE and never make time for anymore. I definitely lost track of self care this past year and as a blogger it’s very easy to let yourself work every day of the week. I LOVE what I do, but I need a whole heck of a lot more balance in my life and I’m determined to prioritize that.
As for goals for the home decor blog, I want to focus more on how I can serve you all, my fabulous readers, better in 2019. I truly never take it for granted when you stop by each day to see what’s happening in my little corner of the internet and I ALWAYS want my blog to be a bright spot in your day. This has always been my happy place and I want it to be yours, too.
I’m excited to share that in 2019 I’m going to do more YouTube videos! I’ve had so many requests for this and I’ve finally decided to give it a try. I can’t promise right now how often I’ll post, or how awkward I’ll be, but I can tell you that it’s definitely happening and I am soooooo excited. I already have a video filmed, I just need to figure out how to edit it. That should be easy enough, right?! I hope so. Anyway, you can subscribe to my new fancy smanchy YouTube channel here! And please let me know if you have any specific video requests, I’d love to hear it.
And lastly, from now on I’m going to change my posting schedule here on the blog to Monday, Thursday, Saturday. Saturday’s post will be reserved for shopping roundups, videos, inspiration and spaces that I love. I’m REALLY excited to start this new schedule and I hope you all like it too!
Thank you soooooo much for stopping by today. And cheers to a very happy 2019! xo
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The Comments
Tawn Deavers
I always enjoy “our time” together and I am looking forward to the new year. Thank you.
Sarah
> Tawn Deaversaw thank you Tawn, grateful to have you here!!
Jenia Kyle
Yay Sarah! Loved reading your goals. Thanks for being some inspo for this stay at home mom who works from home part time. Can’t wait to follow along with you in 2019!
Sarah
> Jenia Kyleaw you know the struggle very well then Jenia. Here’s to a happy and balanced 2019 for us both!
glenda lafont
Happy New Year and I hope every
resolution is fulfilled.
Sarah
> glenda lafontthank you Glenda! Cheers to a happy 2019 for you as well. xo
Michele
I just subscribed Sarah! YOU. CAN. DO. THIS!! ❤️
Sarah
> MicheleThank you so much Michele!!
Melanie
I am so excited to hear that you will be doing videos! I can’t wait to see them!
Sarah
> Melaniethanks Melanie, I can’t wait to start sharing videos. SOOOOOOON!
Kyla
Your goals for 2019 are so similar to mine. Self care for some reason is tough for me being a mom of 4! I’m looking forward to seeing more videos from you, and glad you’ll be posting on Saturdays. I always enjoy reading your blog and watching you me Insta stories, so I was kind of missing it on the weekends! I hope these new changes go well for you and your family!
Sarah
> KylaOh girl! I don’t know how you do it with four. You’re a super hero in my book!
Rhonda Kay Manthei
Happy New Year Sarah..Praying for all your goals to be made for 2019 and Many blessings. WHERE did you find your recliners.? LOVE them..
Thank you Rhonda
Sarah
> Rhonda Kay MantheiHi Rhonda! Those are from Wal-Mart and they’re AWESOME. Here’s the link https://rstyle.me/n/ddkpgbb6hgf
Maria
> Rhonda Kay MantheiHi Sarah, I’m loving the chairs also. However, I’m having a hard time deciding on the color. You would you mind telling me which color you bought. On the website the beige looks like it has a yellow hint to it, where yours looks more on the whiter side of the color pallet.
Robin
You do a great job, looking forward to your post in the new year . Excited about videos. Happy New Year Sarah !
Sarah
> Robinthank you so much Robin! xo
Dena Breitmeyer
Happy New Year Sarah! What a beautiful way to enter the new year…with more prayer and intentionality! I am so excited for what’s to come and can’t wait for the YT videos! YAY
Sarah
> Dena Breitmeyerthank you so much Dena!! Can’t wait to start sharing videos!!
Amy
Those sound like great goals! I love that number one is praying…this is my goal for 2019 also. Thanks for sharing your home and sweet family! Cheers to the New Year and new beginnings ❤️
Sarah
> AmyGreat minds think alike Amy! Good luck with your goals in 2019. xoxo
Denise Raley
Your blog is awesome. Love it!!!!! Just subscribed to your utube channel. Also, I did one of your diy’s and love it. It was the one with the truck stencil on the box with the Christmas tree. 😊
Do you use real plants in your posts or silks?
Denise Raley
Your blog is awesome. Love it!!!!! Just subscribed to your utube channel. Also, I did one of your diy’s and love it. It was the one with the truck stencil on the box with the Christmas tree. 😊
What about the plants you use.
Sarah
> Denise Raleyoh yay!! That’s awesome Denise–thank you. And the plants I use are all mostly faux and I find them at places like Marshalls and Michael’s!
Debbie Hernandez
I look forward to reading your blog every time you post. I have been fixing up our home since last December room by room and it is still a work in progress and your tips and tricks have been so helpful. Keep them coming. Looking forward to the videos on YouTube.
Sarah
> Debbie HernandezOh wow that’s awesome Debbie! I bet you’ve made a ton of progress in your home. If you ever have any specific post requests that would be helpful for you please let me know!
Tracy
Thank you Sarah for your inspiration. After reading this I realized I should be making some of my own. I look forward to reading your blog each week it’s my time out moment just for me. Happy New Year to you and thanks once again ..
Sarah
> TracyThank you so much Tracy, I am so grateful to have you here! xo
Joyce
I can’t tell you enough how much I enjoy waking up in the morning, grabbing a cup of coffee and reading your blog. You are so fresh and I love your ideas. Thanks for all the inspiration. PS. Can you add some coastal ideas
Sarah
> JoyceAww that makes me so happy Joyce!! Seriously, that’s what it’s all about for me. Thank you for being here!! And I’ll definitely try with the coastal ideas!
Becky
I am loving your idea of praying more and of course always making family first. Looks like you’re doing a great job. I wish you happiness and health in the new year and I’m really looking forward to your videos! xoxo thanks Sarah
Sarah
> BeckyThank you so much Becky!! Can’t wait to start sharing videos!
Faith
Great goals Sarah!! The struggle is real, to find balance in life in all the arenas we find ourselves in.
I think women in general often have seasons of life that we lay aside caring for ourselves, to care for others. It’s a calling on women’s hearts I believe, and it’s how God made us to nurture and put our own needs aside as we serve others, especially family. After all they are our first responsibility, after Christ. But I’m thankful for “seasons” because whether our season is a week, or month, it will pass.
Your sweet babies will grown up and become more independent from you, there will be more time as that happens, but our hours of influence are diminished along with it. Squeeze the joy from all the minutes you have now…and that will be part of taking care of yourself, as you won’t have regrets. It will be encouraging to watch as you work at that balance you talk about. You have a gift…thanks for sharing it with all of us! Happy 2019!!
Sarah
> FaithWow your comment really touched my heart Faith. You’re so right–finding joy in the minutes I have now IS self-care in a very real and tangible way. That is SO profound. Thank you for sharing that with me and thank you for all the support. Means more than you know! xo
Carol
Your goals are quite similar to most of mine. I just subscribed to your youtube…and you will be great with that simply by being yourself. Btw…I begin my day with a short devotional and prayer and just that alone has made such a positive difference in my daily life.
Sarah
> CarolI love that way of starting the day too Carol. It really makes all the difference in how the day goes!
Susie Stover
Love your first video from Hobby Lobby….. such easy wonderful ideas! Can’t wait to watch more😁
Sarah
> Susie StoverThank you Susie!! I can’t wait to share more!
katherine leverence
I just love you so much. I pray for your husband’s safety and for your beautiful family. You are doing a fantastic job!! Peace and Love in 2019. I look forward to reading and watching this year. Blessings!
Sarah
> katherine leverenceAhh Katherine! I’m sending all that love right back to you. Thank you SO much for the prayers–can’t even tell you how much we appreciate that!! xoxo
Candy
Good Morning Sarah
I cant wait to see your videos, but I can’t get on Google for some reason. I will sort this out shortly…
I always look forward to your blog…
Have you heard of a paint Velvet Finishes by Kellie Smith? I just saw something about it and you might like the finish like chalk paint…
Love your goals and can’t wait for everything you will be doing in 2019..May God bless you
Sarah
> CandyOh no! I hope you were able to get on the YT channel Candy. And thanks again for your email about the Velvet Paint–it looks so awesome!!
Angela Servello
Just subscribed, very exciting. Good luck sweet Sarah💕
Sarah
> Angela Servellooh yay!! Thank you so much. Can’t wait to start sharing videos. It’s coming sooooon!
Pat
Great post! I’m new here but I do enjoy your stories on IG and look forward to the YouTube videos. Your home is gorgeous! To be honest, you are too! 😊 I’m not a stalker.
I think it’s great that you’re going to focus more on you this year! I’m older but I do remember losing myself with 2 little ones, being in a new city and a husband that never helped. Do more for yourself ~ go out for coffee and/or lunch, have a mani/pedi, stroll through Target alone 😂 you get the idea! I’m joining you on getting closer to God through prayer and reading. I know you’re a great mom but you can’t fill other cups when yours is empty! 😊
Wishing you the best for this new year!
Pat
Sarah
> PatAh Pat, thank you for those sweet words!! You’re right, it’s so easy to lose yourself in motherhood and we really do have to fight for that balance/self-care. I’m definitely trying to do more of that this year! Hope your 2019 is full of blessings. xoxo
Debbie
So excited for you and all the new changes you are making so you can have a more balance life. First and foremost you have to take care of you because if you don’t then everything else suffers. Oh, by the way..you are a wonderful momma already…just in case no one has told you lately. I am so happy for you and for the opportunity to get to know you through IG! Happy New Years to you dear friend and best of luck to you in all your endeavors!!❤️👍👏
Sarah
> Debbieah you’re so kind Debbie! Thank you so much for those encouraging words. I’m grateful to have you here!! xoxo
Joy
Hi Sarah! I love all that you do, so I’m gearing up for a big project, shiplap in our living room. I know you have done this along with many other DIYs. I have everything pretty much decided on, however would like your input on three things…
1) paint the boards before or after they go up?
2) use primer before paint?
3) what color of white? I want white, white, not pale grey, blue or any yellow under tones. And which paint would you go with?
Sarah I know you have reviewed lots of paint and I really trust your judgment.
Thanks in advance for your response
~Joy
Sarah
> JoyHi Joy! 1) I always painted the boards after they go up, but I think either works…actually painting them before might be faster!
2) Def primer before paint.
3) I’ve used several different shades of white–I believe we did Ultra Bright White by Behr in our breakfast nook, but a softer white like Alabaster by Sherwin Williams would be a good option too. That’s what we have on the walls in our home and I LOVE it.
Laura Gee
I love tagging along in your journey. Your goals will be a reality because the most important is in first place. ❤️🙏🏼 Fight for that balance, it’s so worth it in the end. As a mom of grown children now I am reaping the benefits. God bless you! Happy New (beginning) Year!
Sarah
> Laura GeeThank you so much Laura, I’m definitely fighting for that balance in 2019!! xo
Sandee
First off… Happy New Year to you.
You most definitely need to do what’s right for you. Caring for yourself is and always will be one of the hardest things we as Moms and women in general do. If we aren’t right nothing else is! It’s so great that you set these goals for yourself.
I wish the very best for you in 2019 whatever that looks like.
Sarah
> SandeeOh you hit the nail on the head Sandee–if we aren’t right no one is. Hoping to get more balance and free time in 2019!!
Laura
Happy New Year Sarah! I applaud you for looking back at the past and adjusting life goals to fit your family and yourself. Although my family is grown and having children of their own, I am now facing a new challenge with aging parents who rely on me. I enjoy my time with them and don’t mind running errands and being their personal Uber (lol). They did so much for my brother and me. But like you, I have found that I am not taking care of myself. Your blog has been an inspiration to me (who says old dogs can’t be taught have new tricks? lol). So take time to pray, breathe, and enjoy those little ones, as they grow so fast. Thank you for inspiring me. All the best in 2019!
Sarah
> LauraAh bless you for doing that Laura! You are so sweet to take care of your parents and I’m sure they really appreciate it too. But yes, definitely make time for yourself and do it often!! Everyone will be better for it. xoxo
Laura
Yes! So good! Girl u need some rest/ time for yourself and your family. We all do. Balancing is so hard! There was a video on fb about a mom going around asking men how they handle balancing work and parenting and they had no idea what the lady was talking about. Why do women only seem to have the guilt and struggle?! But at least we know we all go through it!
This blog and you are my favorite! Keep up the great work! ❤️
Sarah
> LauraOh wow, that’s so interesting! And so true that men don’t feel those same guilt feelings that we mothers do. It’s so tough! But I’m hoping I can find a lot more balance in 2019 with these changes I’m making. xoxo
Dawn
You will find also as your children get older they will be involved in school activities, sports etc and this will take alot of time. So kudos, because just being a grandmother of a 13 and 16 year that are in activities it gets crazy
Sarah
> DawnYes! You’re so right. My husband and I were just talking about that. It’s only going to get busier.
Mary Beth
I’ve only been following you for a few months after seeing you in a magazine article, but I love your blog and style!
Our #1 goals are the same as I also hope to spend more time on purposeful praying and mediation.
As someone who worked from home for many years while my children were younger its so important to try and stick to a built in schedule so you don’t feel like you are working around the clock. I always prided myself on being able to multi-task but I think all it really did was exhaust and stress me out more. I think your new posting schedule will be awesome!
All the best in the New Year!!
Sarah
> Mary BethThat’s such great advice Mary Beth! Thank you for sharing that with me. Hoping these simple changes help me find more balance in 2019.
Rhonda Cesana
Lots of happy prayers and wishes for 2019! I like your priorities and sincerely respect your choices. Blessings!!❤️
Sarah
> Rhonda Cesanathank you so much Rhonda, cheers to a happy 2019!
Marilyn
Wishing you and yours a blesssed and happy 2019.
Joan,Marion and Marilyn
Sarah
> Marilynthank you so much! And same to you & your family Marilyn. xo
Linda
Love the goals for 2019- they are mine as well❤️
Sarah
> LindaGreat minds think alike Linda!
Chels Rief
So funny, my number one goal was to pray more too!!! Love your heart Sarah and appreciate your vulnerability. <3 I think your goals and plans sound perfect. Nothing is worth gaining if it means losing yourself and time with your precious family. I know you'll find the perfect balance this year! Blessings to you friend!
Sarah
> Chels RiefI completely agree girl. I’m excited to make a few changes in 2019 and looking forward to finding more balance!
Melissa Filson
It’s such a great idea to set goals for yourself and taking care of you is definitely an important one! You do such an amazing job and are such an inspiration to all of us! Prayer and taking care of yourself will definitely give you strength and fulfillment. I just subscribed to your YouTube channel and can’t wait to see your videos!! I hope that this will be an amazing year for you and your family! ❤ XOXO
Sarah
> Melissa FilsonOh yay! Thank you for all the support Melissa, I really do appreciate it so much. And I can’t wait to get a new video up. It’s coming very sooooooooon!
Shirley
You’re doing a great job! I enjoy your posts so much. You’re real and what you share are things I can do in my home.
Keep up the good work!
Sarah
> ShirleyThank you Shirley, I really appreciate that!
Melinda
You’re feed is certainly a bright spot. I enjoy your posts. My Instagram account consists of a carefully curated collection of inspiration, beautiful pictures, and people who have a similar heart spirit and your account checks all the boxes. I am glad you are here.
Sarah
> MelindaAww thank you SO much Melinda–what an honor! I feel the same way about finding the right people to follow–it really does make a difference!
Tara
Hi Sarah!
Just wanted to say a quick hi and let you know how great of a job you have been doing at staying true to yourself, being real and being inspirational. I have just gotten started on blogging and IG decor stuff and it is fun but certainly overwhelming. I look forward to watching your platform continue to grow. Wishing you all the best in 2019.
Tara
Sarah
> Tarawow thank you Tara, that means so much to me!!
Gayle
Awesome Sarah!! Can’t wait for the videos!! I just love when I see a new post from you! You really do brighten my day 😄 Thanks for all your hard work!! And thanks for sharing about your past year and your 2019 goals. So excited to see your first goal was to pray more. On New Year’s Day I always try and seek what God has for me in the coming year and part of a verse from 1 Thessalonians came to mind…. pray without ceasing!! So I am relying on God to help me to continually pray!! All the best for 2019 😃 Also I would love to see a videos on home organising… like for example storage solutions for kitchen pantry, laundry room, closets etc
Sarah
> GayleThank you so much Gayle. And I love that verse from Thessalonians! I hope you have a very blessed 2019.
Kimberly
Thanks Sarah for always keeping your posts personal and honest. I am new to your blog (since the summer) but I look forward to your writing.
Thanks again and Happy New Year…
~K
Sarah
> KimberlyThank you Kimberly, I really appreciate that. And glad to have you here! xo
Jen
About the recliner chairs from Walmart.. how durable are they and who makes them? Any info you can give would be helpful. Thank you!
Jen Luckie
Wanda
What is the name brand of you Chairs in the photo? I love them…
Sharon Isaac
I’m so happy your No.1 goal is praying more. That’s my no. 1 too, talking to and listening to God a whole lot more. It’s so easy to be distracted by all the day to day stuff but I know that if I pray more and spend more time with God all that other stuff will benefit too. God luck in 2019 will all that you hope to achieve. I love catching up with you in your blog and in ig. land. It makes me so happy and inspired xo
Brandy
I came across your blog while viewing recliners on Pinterest. Love your taste! Do you mind telling me what color you chose? My old eyes can’t tell if they’re beige or gray!😂
Sarah
> BrandyThank you Brandy! The recliners are actually beige. We LOVE them.
Rebekah
I just found your blog while looking for paint colors and I love it! I wondered what the name of your wall color is for the living room in this post? Do you have a home tour on your site? Thanks!!
Sarah
> RebekahThanks Rebekah! The paint color is Alabaster by Sherwin Williams. And I do have a home tour, you can see it here: https://sarahjoyblog.com/home-tour/
Susan Frick
I love this post, Sarah! Congratulations on well-deserved success in 2018. And I love your goals for 2019. As I’m heading back into the blogging world after a sabbatical, I’m inspired by bloggers like you that are tackling this platform by storm. Your blogging tips have been so helpful to me as I get reacquainted with the technology – so much to learn! Thank you for your beautiful blog and inspiration. All the best with the Youtube channel!
Tracie
Love your blog and the pictures. I am thinking one day you should publish a decorating book….. 🙂
Cheryl
So excited to see you on You Tube. If you could maybe have ideas how to up cycle old things to beautiful things, for people you are on a tight budget.
Sarah
> CherylLove that idea Cheryl!
Sue
sarah.love your goals an hour blog..look forward to them an look back at many i missed.I have gotten much inspiration from u an like I like ja n for getting rid of the things I don’t love.This yr i retired an have lots of time to change things up..not that it was really bad to begin with but have done a lot of chalk painting..two o!d cabinets an restyled them…love them..lightened everything up..love the farmhouse look with vintage pieces.thanks for your inspiration.Having lots of fun with not spending much
Maria
Hi Sarah, could you please tell me the color of your chairs. I just love them!
Sarah
> MariaHi Maria, they are beige!
Maria
> SarahThank you so much, Sarah, for getting back to. I’m so obsessed with those chairs! Love your style!
Deanna M. Carter
LOVE your blog and everything in it!! Where is this cute white end table from that houses the magazines? SOOO darling!!!
Sarah
> Deanna M. Carterthank you! That table was a find at Goodwill for five bucks. Then I painted it!
Shannon
I love your side table with the magazine rack! Can you tell me where that is from?
Dee
Where did you get those chairs?