On the Eve of New Beginnings

There is no greater opportunity than the ability to start fresh, new.  Each December 31st, the possibilities are truly endless.

And even if by February 15th our resolutions are a thing of the past, the fact we took on a new challenge or tried a better approach to everyday life shows our resilience and determination to never be placid.

So on the eve of new beginnings, to everyone writing resolutions down on paper tonight, may your resolutions be bold and daring.  Regardless of how long these resolutions are kept, be proud you took the plunge!

Happy and Prosperous New Year!

A Note from Me to You

In a time where social media, email, text and everything in between dominates our form of communication, it’s comforting to see the art of sending holiday cards is not lost.

Over the past few weeks, walking to the mailbox at the end of the driveway brought nothing but joy, smiles and even a few chuckles.  Sure, there were bills in most of the day’s delivery, but accompanied with a stack of holiday cheer – the happy greetings softened the harsh blow of bills. Soon after Thanksgiving, the cards began to arrive and not a day passed us by without a merry message waiting for us at the end of a long work day.

But alas, as we near the end of the holiday season, the gleeful holiday cards no longer fill our mailboxes with their crimson red and balsam green envelopes.  It is such a pity these notes of cheer cannot continue throughout the year.  But then again, why not?

I would imagine others felt the same joy I did throughout this season, so why not try to write a friendly note or send a humorous card once every month or so to someone I haven’t spoken to in awhile?  Six cards between now and the next holiday season doesn’t seem too difficult to accomplish and I believe the rewards will be plentiful for all.

And who knows, maybe someone will return the favor and my Winter, Spring and Summer mail will have the occasional small tokens of joy as well!

Without A Schedule

For the past few days, we have been without a schedule…

Sleeping in on very cold mornings; Pajamas on sometimes well into the afternoon; Staying up late to watch movies.

Kids contentedly playing with their new toys and hubby and I actually having complete conversations that are not over text or email, but face to face.

Visits to family and friends.  Feasts complete with plentiful reminiscing, crowded kitchens and roaring fireplaces.

The house has been filled with so much love and laughter, hugs and kisses – it’s truly been a very blissful winter break.

Why Wait Until January 1st?

Soon after we deck the halls and eat the entire Christmas goose, we are inundated with making our New Year’s resolutions.  And without fail, loosing weight always leads my list. Despite my concerted efforts over the year, my weight yoyos at a constant rate.  Nothing is worse for my body than this up and down, tight and loose frustrating dance I do.  This year alone, I lost and gained close to 25 pounds!

So this year, before the crystal ball falls into the New Year, I am jumping the gun and getting back to the only thing that truly works for me – kettle bells.  A full and total body workout that is never boring and works areas/muscles I forgot even had, it was the only form of working out I truly enjoyed.

Just in these past few days, I can feel a difference in both my pants and my overall demeanor.  Mind you, I have not been holding back on what I put in my mouth.  I may be eager to be healthier, but such delectable dishes are only prepared just once a year – or so I tell myself :-)

If exercise and healthy living is on your New Year’s resolution too, try kettle bells. It’s effective, invigorating and perfect for anyone who says they don’t have time to work out.  Take a section of classes and experience a workout that changes everything. Find trainer who is a certified instructor and can teach you what exercises work best for each area.  For those of you who live in Mercer County, check out 4elements. By far, best classes in the area!

To all those embarking on a similar journey this coming New Year, my very best to you.  Keep me posted on your progress and I will do the same for you.

Here’s to healthy living!

Hello Quiet. It’s So Nice to see you!

I am reading a magazine.  The candles are flickering and the glow from the fireplace is warm and comforting.  My iPod plays only my music and my cocktail is being enjoyed fresh. No one is screaming.  In fact, I sit alone on the best spot of the couch.

I am not in bizarro world.  I am not dreaming.  My family is home, but they are enthralled with a gadget I should have allowed in my home long long ago.

Daddy and children are jumping over logs, eating coins and maneuvering from level to level.

Thank you Wii.  I should have welcomed you long ago.