Realistic Resolutions We Might Actually Be Able to Keep

Once again we find ourselves on the cusp of a new year, making the annual list of resolutions that are designed to improve our lives in the coming year. You and I both know how tough this can be, so I've compiled a list to help you out. This list is based on actual scientific internet research of the top resolutions made by people just like you and me. You heard me right: Scientific Internet Research. It doesn't get more real (or important) than that! Listed below, in bold lettering, are some popular resolutions - each followed by a more realistic version. If you want to make your own list just remember to think outside the box. Behold, my


List of Realistic Resolutions We Might Actually Be Able to Keep.

Enjoy Life More: you can start by not making lists of resolutions. If you feel you must, then just make one.

Find My Soul Mate: okay, well, first I have to find my soul....it was around here somewhere...Ok, so realistically - start a blog! I'll let you know how that one works out...

Lose Weight: this can be achieved in numerous ways. Like buying lighter shoes or removing some of the contents of your wallet, pocket or purse. If it makes it easier for you just send all of your change to me....

Get In Shape: hey, who says you have to specify a shape? Any shape will do.

Stop Swearing: just swear more creatively! Think Yosemite Sam (sassafrassa, ricka-racka....)Holy Moley, you didn't expect me to just quit straight up, did you?

Take a Trip: work is a fascinating destination, in fact, you can practice your creative swearing there!

Get Organized: even something simple like making your bed more often. Not saying how often, just more often! Or buy a filing cabinet - as long as no one opens it, they'll think you're organized!

Do Something I've Never Done Before: like keep a resolution? Nah...too hard.

Drink Less Alcohol: is this one of those quality versus quantity issues? I think I could give up the cheap stuff for something better. That's do-able.

Attend a Live Sporting Event: yes, traffic counts.

Stick to a Budget: write it out and then use velcro or super-glue. Where you stick it is your business.

Help Others: I think this list counts - I am helping you, right? Again, think outside the box - sometimes leaving people alone is helping...

Stop smoking: just go ahead and spontaneously combust! Let me know how that works for you.

P.S. Have a Happy New Year and a safe and fun celebration!

Post Christmas Wrap-Up

Proof that Santa exists:

1. Only crumbs remain on the plate that held cookies.

2. Milk - GONE!!!

Need I say more? I think not!

Alright then, time to get started on those New Year's Resolutions. If I think of any I'll let you know....

They're Just So Darned Adorable!

more animals

Seriously, can you imagine the havoc?

Yonder Breaks a New and Glorious Morn

There are so many Christmas songs, both religious and secular, and for the past few weeks I've heard nearly all of them. I'm not complaining - I love almost all of them. However, if I had to choose a favorite Christmas song this one would win hands down. I've heard many people sing this but not many can really pull it off. I loved Michael Crawford in Phantom of the Opera (I cried) and when I heard his version of "Oh Holy Night" I wanted to include it here for you tonight. Maybe you can make it through without a tear...I can't! Merry Christmas to all.

Luminaria

I told you recently about tumbleweed Christmas trees. Another tradition in the Southwest is luminaria. The idea behind luminaria is that the lights will guide the spirit of the Christ child to your home. Luminaria are made from paper bags with sand in the bottom to hold them down. They are lit from within by a candle held in place by the sand. On Christmas Eve the luminaria are arranged in rows, lining the driveway and walkways around your home. Over the years they have become more elaborate, with cut out designs, and you can even buy electric ones.

In the picture above the homeowners lined the walkway, the front wall and the flat roof-line of the home. (In the Southwest it's not uncommon to see the roof-line lit up on adobe buildings). Weather permitting, you can create this type of display anywhere in the country, though I wouldn't recommend most roof tops. Of course you need to place the candles carefully in the center of the bag of sand and keep an eye on them so they don't cause a fire. Inexpensive glass votive holders are a good way to reduce the risk of fire. Note that the top of the bag is rolled down a time or two to create a sturdy opening.

Should you find yourself in Phoenix, Albuquerque, San Antonio or another Southwest location on Christmas eve, be sure to include an evening tour of their local gardens, parks and historic areas to take in this beautiful tradition.

Caroling, Caroling Through the Town. . .

Caroling, caroling, now we go Christmas bells are ringing
Caroling, caroling through the snow
Christmas bells are ringing

Joyous voices, sweet and clear
Sing the sad of heart to cheer
Ding dong, ding dong
Christmas bells are ringing

It just wouldn't be Christmas without music would it? I bought a set of these carolers several years ago as a gift but I had such a hard time parting with them that I went back and got a set for myself. The caroling dog really makes the set, don't you agree?

I think it would be great fun to dress in period costumes and go caroling. The cold weather makes it even better because you're encouraged to sing loud to stay warm! That and the after party... There was a group of friends that I went caroling with at Christmas before moving to Florida. We went around to the nursing homes and shut-ins and sang. Then we all descended on the home of another friend for food, drink and a great party.

One of the nice things about caroling is that everyone can join in and have fun. You don't have to be an awesome singer to get together and sing Christmas songs - in fact, nobody expects perfection, just loud,joyful fun.

Listening to Christmas music makes me want to join a choir. When I was in school I sang in a couple of different choirs. I really enjoyed practicing together with the other members to produce each concert. It's been quite a few years since then and I'm sure I'm rather rusty, although I suppose with practice I could do it again. When my girls are grown and I have fewer demands on my time I think I'll give it another go!

One Horse Slopin' Sleigh

Back in the day, when my 16 year old was quite young, she learned the song "Jingle Bells". She sang it with such gusto! However, she didn't quite get the words right and what came out was:

"...oh what farmer is to ride in a one horse slopin' sleigh!"

I don't know about you, but the suspense is killing me! Who will it be?! Which farmer will get to ride in the one horse slopin' sleigh? And why is it slopin', for crying out loud??!

Forever I will hear those words in my head when I hear the song "Jingle Bells".