My husband and I agree, 2015 was the best year of our lives.

He moved to a day shift which to me, has been life-changing. Somehow, after 11 years of marriage, we seemed to grow even closer together. And we made so many wonderful memories together as a family.

Though I had many wonderful experiences throughout the year that made it such a great one, there were a lot of personal changes that really made the difference.

For one, I decided spending quality time with my family and doing work I truly love was more important than my bottom line. I didn’t quit my job working every weekend and holiday as a full-time anchor and reporter so I could work weekends and holidays as a blogger.

Funny enough, in 2015 I found when passion became my motivator, money came much easier.

Something happened in the middle of the year. I can’t pinpoint exactly how or when, but there came a point when I really stopped caring what other people thought I should be doing, and started really thinking about what I wanted.

I think part of this hit me at the realization of turning 30. It’s something I’ve been dreading for the last couple of years. The closer this new decade of life crept, the more I’d agonize. But I’ve had a realization that a new decade, like a new year, gives me a chance to reevaluate my life and set new goals.

I’ll go more into my decade goals soon. As for 2016, a lot of the same: Continue to work less, play more, and marry the two whenever possible.

New Years Goals 2016

• Spend more quality time with each of my kids and husband, together and individually.
• Find at least one moment to cherish every day.
• Spend more time with our pup Snoop.
• Cook or create with Lil’ J at least once a week.
• Organize and print more photos for my home.
• Get ready (hair and makeup done) at least 2-3 times a week.
• Use my talents to give back (I’m brainstorming creative ways to do this).

Lil’ J is setting some goals again as well. She wants to earn money, keep practicing her dance and gymnastics, and become a better reader. She also wants to help me cook.

We used the all-new Sears app and went on a little resolution shopping spree and got some items to help us out. Some ink for our printer to help with printing photos. Mixing bowls and measuring cups and a basting brush. To be honest I’m not even sure what else we need to get going. I will probably get a couple more casserole dishes and go from there once we get to cooking and see where we lack.

To hold myself accountable I’m hoping to share at least one meal a month we make together here on the blog, along with Lil’ J’s review. She’s a picky eater but she will always try the food when she’s involved with making it.

I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m excited to make some memories together in the kitchen this year. I don’t like cooking, but seeing her light up when she gets involved makes it all worth it.

What are your resolutions this year? Want to get in shape? Sears is the #1 fitness retailer. What tools will help you achieve your goals? Writing down and sharing your goals with others is the first step in achieving them. Leave a comment and you’ll be entered to win a $100 gift card from Sears. Giveaway Ends January 14th at 11:59pm.

This story was written in partnership with Sears as a part of the Sears Bloggers Squad. Find great gifts at Sears for those who matter in your life. And be sure to visit Sears.com to shop from the comfort of your own home and then use in-vehicle pickup and have all of your items brought straight to your car (also works for returns and exchanges)!

Tags: goals, happy new year, new year, new year resolutions, Sears