HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 

Looking forward to a new year? Anything special on your horizon?

Everybody needs something to look forward to--our human nature seems to respond well to anticipated events or activities.

If you're one of those people who prefer a warmer season, you might try some forward planning.

In my little world, I anticipate the start of an intermediate class in yoga. Twelve years ago I started learning yoga and have been a practitioner for most of those years. When my instructor dropped her classic class (students work on floor mats), she concentrated on therapeutic yoga for seniors. This class is taught at the local senior center two mornings a week, students do most of the poses from a seated position, in chairs, and it has been very popular. But some of the students have gone beyond the simpler poses and have developed strength and endurance to allow them to advance to a more challenging class. Next week we'll take it for a test drive.

Last month our yoga instructor took vacation, so a local sifu in T'ai Chi taught classes at the senior center. I was able to attend only one class but that was enough to reel me in. After this month gets going I'll investigate what classes will fit my schedule.

In a few days the Heart and Hands group of knitting, crocheting, and sewing ladies at my church will celebrate a year of creating and having fun at the same time. (Food also helps keep us happy.) Our goal for 2014 is to make even more items to donate to local organizations who aid homeless and other needy folks, young and not-so-young.

My friend Liz Flaherty has a new book out (December 27 on Kindle--this spring in print) so I'm waiting for that blessed event. More on that when the pub date approaches.

Just listing these lovely things in my future keeps me on an even keel. The snow outside is nearing eight inches depth--but inside, I'm warm and dry, and have much to be thankful for. Not least is the fact that I have good things coming up.

Make your own list. Even if you love winter and can get out in the snow for fun, you can always think ahead. It just might help the time pass till spring comes your way.