2006 didn't suck, well, not completely

I have tried not to jump on the "2006 sucks" bandwagon (membership includes a free t-shirt and a discount drug card), but I have to admit, it was a bit of a bumpy ride. It tested our stamina, our strength, our resolve, our moral fiber and our faith. We survived huge losses; we struggled with bad news.

However, I can't help but to think that it wasn't all bad. We marked important milestones, including the celebration of the tenth year with my beloved. We added pages, if not chapters, to our book of life. It was a year of new and renewed relationships, both online and offline. It was a year of expanded horizons, travel and adventure.

I am hopeful that 2007 will offer many changes and opportunities for us. If our best laid plans come to fruition, it will be such a year.

I have been struggling all week with what kinds of resolutions to make and even though I generally really get into that sort of thing, I am having some difficulty this year. I don't have a firm and concise list, just random thoughts of what I want to do in the new year:

-I want to continue to nurture the important relationships in my life. I could ramble here, but I think that sums it up.

-I will cable in 2007. Yes, this knitter is planning to broaden her horizons. Who knows, I may get wild and crazy even try some color work.

-I want to simplify. This is a perpetual struggle for me and as soon as I make big strides, I find myself sliding into old habits. This year I will wage a battle against stuff: stuff cluttering up my home; stuff cluttering up my mind.

-I will find more time in my life for the things I love. That means finding ways around the things that suck away all of my time: wasted television viewing (no more Law & Order: SVU marathons), maintaining our stuff, or useless shopping.

-I will make strides toward a healthier lifestyle.

-I will read more. I love to read, but haven't been able to concentrate long enough to do much of it. I am hopeful that as my life starts to declutter, I will have fewer things distracting me.

-I will destash. I will reduce my yarn supply by 1/4 before making any large purchases. This is primarily based on space; and of course money. A good deal of my stash is dedicated to specific projects, so I just need to start knitting those patterns.

-I will try to make most of the gifts I give in 2007. I am reminded of how touched I was by the afghan and apron presented to me this Christmas.

-I have some personal financial goals, but I am sure not only will they bore you, but they probably mirror yours as well.

And the list could go on and on, but for now I will celebrate New Year's Eve in our traditional manner: lots of finger foods, some wine and one last Law & Order: SVU marathon before those resolutions kick in.

Happy New Year to each of you. The past year was kind to me in many ways, one of which was the development of very special relationships with you guys, and you know who you are. . . for the wonderful gift of your friendship and support I am eternally grateful. I look forward to seeing (and reading) what 2007 holds for each of you.

In the meantime, I wish each of you a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.