Today marks the first day of a new year. People talk about "new beginnings" and all kinds of hopefulness for the new year. For me, it's pretty much just another day. I don't party it up or watch Dick Clark's Rocking New Year's Eve or drink champagne. My New Year's tradition for many years has been to get up and go to work (at a ski area) and listen to U2's "New Year's Day". Here's some of the lyrics:
All is quiet
on New Year's Day
The world is wired
It's underway
I want to be with you, be with you night and day.
Nothing changes on New Year's Day
My sentiments exactly. And yes, 7am on New Year's day is really quiet. Nothing really changes except you put up a new calendar and have the day off of work (most people, that is). But here's where the cynic in me stops. Yes, January 1st is a time of reflection- to look back at the old year and look forward to the new. As I look back at this past year, I have a hard time believing all that has happened in my life.
1. I GOT A TEACHING JOB! I mean holy guacamole! Just as I was about to give up entirely and go into a different profession, God opens the door for me to teach at Waits River Valley School. I am so very blessed!!
2. I MOVED! (see number 1) I miss living in the Champlain Valley, but I'm getting used to the Upper Valley (or Upper Connecticut River Valley).
I am so very grateful for all that has happened in 2013. I'm not sure what 2014 has in store for me, but here are some goals (I call them goals- you can call them resolutions).
Goal 1- loose 20ish pounds. I need to get healthier, lower my risks of family inherited diseases and just feel better. Exercise more. Maybe pick up running? Don't push it.
Goal 2- figure out graduate school. What do I want to study? I've been thinking of a science degree, but I'm not sure. And then where do I go? Locally? Online? I have 364 days to think about it.
Goal 3- Revive our school/community garden. I love gardening and think there is so much that kids can learn from gardening.
Goal 4- read more. I don't have a TV, but my computer seems to take the place of my "down time" more than I'd like. I need to break away from the computer and read the ton of books I received as gifts this Christmas.
Goal 5- live more frugally. My apartment is expensive, and my second job is about to end. I may have to move this summer, or find a more permanent part time job. Or win the megabucks.
As I have told my students, five is my favorite number. Five goals are easy to remember than a big long list that I could surely make of goals. I also feel these are pretty doable. I know that many people make unrealistic goals/resolutions for themselves and get depressed when they don't meet them. If you have a high expectation that you really do want to meet, then go after it and DON'T GIVE UP! Trust me. You'll be glad you didn't.
So to all of you out there making your lists of goals for the year, make them worthwhile and attainable. Have a safe and happy 2014!!
