Well, here we are. The holidays are quickly fading into sweet memories. The future is upon us whether we are ready or not. This is the month of renewal and resolutions. January gives each one of us a fresh start and the chance to make ourselves more promises than we’ll ever keep.
That kind of giddy optimism renews the spirit. You know the feeling. You made it through another year, and you are still standing. You are stronger now than ever before. If not, you are at least going to try harder than ever before. If that doesn’t work, you will figure out something.
After all, you have the entire year ahead of you. Time is firmly on everyone’s side, and it feels good. You can almost shrug off that biting chill in the air. Yes, this is typically the coldest month of the year, but that works in your favor.
Are you located up north? Sharpen those skates, and head for the nearest pond. If you call the Gulf Coast home, you know how much fun pier fishing is this time of year. Folks on the Pacific Coast head for the mountains and hit the slopes. We all deserve some me-time now that the holidays are over.
Let’s create new ways to have fun by simply being silly. Invite friends over for a combination brunch and post-New Year’s Eve hangover remedy contest. Pin your New Year’s resolutions on a dartboard, and let your throwing skills determine your fate. Try something different like celebrating the riddles of Opposite Day.
When was the last time you curled up in a comfy chair with a few real books? January weather sets a perfect stage for sitting inside and reading about our favorite forefathers. You might flip through a hard copy of “The Old Farmer’s Almanac” for advice on sowing an early vegetable garden. Even cookbooks are fun to graze when it’s cold outside. Reading and relaxing are wonderful ways to ease into the New Year.
Don’t worry about getting everything done just now. Bask in the glow of twelve months ahead. Keep your eyes on the future, but embrace the here and now that only happens once a year. It’s January. You have plenty of time. Enjoy it.
