Critter Alley

Critter Alley

Sunday, December 29, 2013

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!

12 comments:

Fireblossom said...

Bosco resolves to make The Big Sheep (me) be more obedient than ever in 2014! Got to love herders!

Sioux Roslawski said...

Pat--Making your goals and resolutions doable is wonderful advice.

I hope you have a great 2014.

Unknown said...

This year has really flew by fast. Have a happy and healthy new year.

Linda O'Connell said...

Best advice ever! Goals and resolutions must be realistic. Baby steps before a marathon...great words.

Unknown said...

No resolutions here. We agree being a kind of glass half full person is just the best. There are so many opportunities out there. Wishing you and the family a Happy & Prosperous New Year.
Have a marvellous Monday.
Best wishes Molly

Two French Bulldogs said...

Time goes way to fast!
Lily

Hailey and Zaphod and their Lady said...

Wishing you all the best for 2014! Lee and Phod

Lassiter Chase and Benjamin said...

Wishing u a happy new year. Mommy is suddenly in the mood for a cookie.

Kari in Alaska said...

Er Happy New Years!

Stop on by for a visit
Kari
http://dogisgodinreverse.com/

CreekHiker / HollysFolly said...

I stopped making resolutions years ago... I hate the way failure makes me feel!

I jokingly told friends my resolution is to remember to write 2014 on all my paperwork!


A hiking buddy has a good one. Hers is to "stand up straight!" She says she likes that because, every time she thinks about it, she can do it and not feel bad!

Hope you have a wonderful 2014!

Tammy said...

Amen. I used to smoke - quit literally dozens of times. It was good practice, because one finally did take. That glass really is half-full. Happy 2014, Pat!

Donna Volkenannt said...

Hi Pat,
Your post is inspiring!

I've found the key to meeting my goals is to stay positive and never give up.

Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year!