I begin 2013 much as I began 2012- hesitant, yet hopeful. I have not made any resolutions, but I offer these few random thoughts about what the new year might hold.
It seems that for a time we are going to be more broke than we had planned. But this is the year that I am saving money. I AM saving money. I AM SAVING MONEY! Feel free to repeat with me as often as necessary.
Despite positive changes in my diet I am still fat. I eat well, but I still eat too much. It’s that simple. And I know that it would be un-American to start out the year without a new diet plan. So I have determined that the best plan for me is to continue my pescetarian ways, and to continue some of my “daily” foods, but eat ½ as much. I’m not going to count calories, give up sweets, or do anything drastic. I’m simply going to stop and think before preparing any snack or meal and eat ½ of what I would have previously eaten. (Please note that this will tie in nicely to the first plan- saving money!)
I have given much thought this week to my exercise problem. Again I have determined that the best plan for me is the simplest, so I am not going to embrace an exciting new walking/running/dancing program for the coming year. I’m not going to join a gym or buy equipment. I already have an old treadmill in the laundry room that sits there silently mocking me. I’m going to do something that everyone my age should do- stretch at least ten minutes each day. Staying flexible is very important and helps prevent injuries. And I’m just going to look for ways every day to add to the steps I take. No more driving around the parking lot looking for the closest space! When I fill the bird feeders I can add one more lap around the yard for my health. When I go out to take pictures I can walk a little farther and perhaps I will be rewarded with something new to photograph!
I want to spend more time in the garden in 2013. I have been quite discouraged by the drought conditions of the past two years and as a result cut back on gardening. I know that is difficult to believe when you look at all the flower photos in my files, but it is true. I seldom buy a plant anymore unless it is on the clearance shelf. And I don’t buy anything that requires moist soil. I invested in some seeds this fall and hope they will give me a glorious cutting garden without a lot of water. I also sat down yesterday with a new seed catalog and circled some old favorites that have been absent from my garden in recent years. So for 2013 I am going to add celosia, gomphrena, nigella, and verbena bonariensis to my spring planting. I’m especially fond of nigella. If you are not familiar with it click here.
I also plan to write more, take better photos, and improve my teaching skills. Standard protocol for each and every year! This old dog can only learn a few new tricks at a time.
Happy New Year
to each and every one of you!
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