A New Year

It's the time of year when we traditionally make a list of resolutions, vowing to be better, do more and be more understanding in the coming year.  These resolutions, although always made with good intentions, seem to last all of about 10 minutes into the new year.  I'm not sure why they disappear so fast, maybe due to short term memory loss.

Today, instead of listing all my new and well-meaning resolutions, I decided to take a page from one of my former partners' books and give thanks for a wonderful 2009.  In no particular order, I am grateful for the following:

A husband who loves me unconditionally after 46 years, a comfortable home, a priceless view out the front windows, a son and daughter-in-law who always make me proud, wonderful and healthy grandkids, a great new great-grandson, my beautiful and caring sisters, a cancer-free checkup for one of them, a nephew almost completely recovered from the stroke he suffered, a new job for another nephew, an all-around wonderful family (to whom I wish many happy, healthy and wealthy years to come), amazing friends, good books, good health, and a perfect companion dog.

I also vow to remember that all I have is all I need.

A Happy and Healthy New Year to all of you.  Remember to make the best choices you can, then move forward.  Don't spend time regretting the past choices; they can't be changed.  And if you do make some new resolutions this year, remember that you are the only person who can change your life.

(The picture above was taken by my friend, Deb S. on Christmas day)