Big Changes in the New Year

I don't know about everyone else, but it so hard for me to believe that another year has passed by. It seemed like 2007 dragged by in the beginning, but the end of the year has just flown. Anyone else feel that way?
I wish that I could say that I am looking forward to the new year ahead, but with my husband gone so much of the time, it's hard to find things to look forward to. I guess those rare moments we can be together are one thing. At least he will be here for New Years, which is more than I can say for last year.
Anyhow, with the new year upon us, I plan on making some big personal changes, not the least of which will be diet and exercise related. I'd like to lose 30 pounds this year, but I am keeping that quiet so that it's a personal goal and I don't feel the pressure of living up to anyone's expectations but my own. I can't remember when the last time my husband told me he thought I looked beautiful was. How sad is that?It would be so nice to have him look at me and see that spark in his eye. We love one another, but sometimes I wish that newness - you know the look of lust that you have when your relationship is new? I wish that was still there.
I am also paying off all my credit card debt. No more debt. I want to be able to pay my credit cards off in full at the end of every month. I want to be more financially responsible and actually start saving for my future, and for my children's future.
In the long run, I guess I have high hopes for 2008 as far as personal growth, I just don't expect much on the happiness front. How good can it be when my husband is going to be gone 200+ days out of 365?
I hope that the rest of you have a happy, healthy new year!