It is hard for me to believe it is the beginning of a new year. I mean, where did 2018 go? I know I am old and, as such, it is what older people say, but I really feel that, as months go, I should be basking in the summer sun instead of wondering if it’s going to snow.

I decided to look back at my 2018 calendar to see if I could determine what made the days and months pass by so quickly. It was no surprise once I started flipping through it to find my family was front and center. As I looked at my different notations, so many wonderful memories came to mind.

Moving to be in the same town as two of our three daughters was a wonderful choice—and having the beach so close doesn’t hurt. The downside is that not all three of them live here, but it isn’t a bad drive to see our eldest and, based on my calendar, we did it fairly often. I think an added bonus is that when we lived 90 minutes away, we’d go and come home the same day. Now, whenever we go, we get a longer visit in. I learn so much about my grandchildren by being with them in their day-to-day lives, and not just for special events. Those are the times when my talkative grands really engage in conversations, and I learn about what they are doing in school, what their new likes and dislikes are, what activities they are involved in and their feelings about any and all things that come up in conversation.

Communication in whatever form you choose is so important. I want my grandchildren to know I am always there for them, even when I may be thousands of miles away. Our two-year-old granddaughter, even though I see her almost every day, reminds me to keep in touch by getting her mom’s phone and texting me. I will hear the text message tone on my phone and look to see “H.s888*yJ!{93s,” or something similar, and know exactly who it’s from. It prompts me to call my daughter’s phone and talk to my sweet granddaughter. Since there is my picture next to my name, she knows exactly who she’s texting or calling—she also does this to other family members. Yes, all my grandkids are brilliant, and no, I am not in the least bit biased.

So, staying busy obviously keeps the days moving quickly, but the wonderful memories they invoke are worth it. Now, as it is the first of the year, resolutions come to mind. I will put the usual ones on my list—lose weight; exercise more; eat healthier—the same ones that I have written and ignored for years, but who knows, maybe this year…sure, right? Anyway, this year I will resolve to get more sleep—I am a terrible night owl; get more involved in my community and church; do more writing, and open myself up to new experiences. How many I will achieve is up for debate, as I tend to be a master procrastinator. One thing I didn’t list, because it really isn’t a resolution, but a wish, or hope, or desire. I want to fill my calendar with even more time spent with family. I am never happier than when I am surrounded by them—the what and where don’t matter.

Whether you make resolutions or not, I wish everyone health and happiness, time to spend with family and friends, time to pursue something that brings you a feeling of joy and contentment, and time to just enjoy life and living.

Happy New Year to One and All!