Happy New Year

I thought it would be fun to have Old Year's Reflections instead of New Year's Resolutions. This is my choice of fun primarily so that I can reflect on how fabulous I am. More than that, I have a few good friends I'm always discussing the latest self-help book with, and I've looked at some amazing people this year and begged them that indeed, we are our own toughest critiques. Perhaps the time for change isn't always necessary and we should just glow with what we got! Glow on girl!

I do have a New Year's Resolution, or two. But let's have more fun with how fantastic this past year has been instead of how I need to change. I fear change anyways.

1. Said goodbye to a precious friend and kept a promise to her. The fact that the three of us were friends for so long, and what it took to say goodbye. That a lifelong friendship's connection could deepen and bond ten-fold, I have such gratitude for my Yallison.

3. Lost myself in a book - well, four to be exact. It's been a long time since I allowed myself such a frivolous recreation.

4. Enjoyed my kids. This might sound weird to some. But as good ol Oprah would say, I lived in the present. Maybe it's their age. Maybe it's mine. But I've had more fun with these kids in the past year than my teenage years on a roller coaster. I laugh with them, and at them often. They reflect insightfulness and thoughtfulness each day. When I tell them I'm going up on stage to do comedy, their eyes light up and they "help" me with jokes. When I fell on my knees on ice skates, Max, who is no longer into snuggling or kissing Mommy these days, took advantage of our same height and came up to hug me. Patted me on the back and asked if I was ok. When I'm sick, they bring me water. They're still rotten at times. But I think I've even enjoyed some of those moments. So, enjoyed my kids.

5. Laughed and cried so hard that I made an awkward bark-mixed-with-a-quack noise. It's a true feat. Everyone should have that mix of emotions atleast once in their lives. I challenge you to do it.

6. Established a few boundaries. Some, a little too late, and I inevitably told a few people off. It's time I stand up for myself and my family, and even my friends. I have limits. And they are as follows: Don't jack with me, my kids, or my Ricardo.

7.Lost the weight. Sure, I've gained a bit back. So, I'll lose the few pounds and keep it off this year. But this past year, I lost the weight. For as long as I can remember, some form of losing weight or being healthy has been my token New Years Resolution. But I can honestly say that I'm okay with me. And just not having that as this year's resolution is a success story for me!

8. Kept my mouth shut. Not from eating, but from speaking my mind. I learned this year that sometimes, the best way to be understood is by not saying anything at all. Not ALWAYS thecase, but sometimes.

Today I celebrated the New Year with some great new friends. It was so fun and easy, and VERY VERY Tasty! So, here's to ringing in the New Year, taking the good things from last year and carrying them on to a new year of hope.

That's how I roll.