Happy New Year 2014

Can you believe we're almost at the end of another year?  As a kid, I used to groan at the length of time between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It seemed an eternity. Meanwhile, my mother would sigh over how fast time flew. Now I'm the mother and I totally get how she felt.

In only a few short days, 2013 with all its warts, wrinkles, and age spots, will be a memory. Some people will make resolutions for the new year, while others will scoff at the notion, claiming nobody can keep all those well-intentioned intentions.

Personally, I'm a resolution maker. For me there's something undeniably appealing about turning the page and getting a fresh start. It's my chance for a do-over...an opportunity to get it right this time.

After years of floundering with resolutions, I've finally figured out that success lies in making them doable. I'm better off if I resolve to eat only 1 chocolate chip cookie rather than forbidding myself to have any. Parking my car in the most distant spot means I'll need to walk a little more. That sounds much better than trying to wedge my thunder thighs between all the Skinny Minnies at the gym. If I tell myself to write just a few words each day, it's more likely to happen than if I decree no less than 500 will do. So this year I'll be a little kinder to myself and therefore much happier in February.

I'm proud of being a resolution maker. We are optimists until the end. We're the dreamers, planners, and glass that's half-full kind of people. We know for sure we'll finally quit that smoking habit, lose those pesky 20 pounds, and maybe even take a piano lesson or two. So go for it. Just remember to take baby steps before you try to run that marathon.

Resolution Makers be forewarned. There's one tiny little side effect that comes with the territory. You'll gain a heart that's full to bursting with hope.

Happy 2014 from all of us at Critter Alley!