It’s January 5th and I just realized I have not yet made my new year’s resolution or set a goal or plan for 2022. I’m not sure if I am prepared for 2022. I’m not sure I ever made it out of 1999,

but that’s a different story. For now I am just trying to plan what I hope to accomplish and what I promise not to do in this new year. Do you make resolutions? Do you keep them? Most of us don’t keep our resolutions after the first week. Why? Because it’s difficult, it’s not fun and too often it’s not realistic.

As I sit here wondering what changes I need to make in my life, I realize what my resolution should be. I should strive to be kind to me. It’s easy to be kind to strangers, friends and family members. We often put other’s needs before our own but what happens when we are depleted? We have nothing left to give.

My mom or others make comments about my sister-in-law or daughters-in-law taking off for a few days with friends because this is something they would never do. But after raising six sons and even now juggling work, family and writing responsibilities I hover on the edge of burn out. A long weekend or a few days away with friends could be the best thing for any relationship whether job, marriage or friendship. Sometimes we have to treat ourselves the way we treat others, show a little kindness and compassion. Give yourself a break. Renew your spirit so you can continue to juggle 20 jobs and a half dozen children!

While I might need to lose weight, lay off sugar and bread, exercise more, I also need to take time to visit friends and family, get my nails done, go out to eat with friends or just read a book.

My goal this year is to do a little something just for myself each week. What should I do this week? I’m thinking it’s time for a pedicure.

Wishing you all a belated happy new year.