Dear Family and Friends,

It’s been a week since my last post featuring my Dad and that was a fun write-up. Other than that, inspiration since my holiday poems has been scarce. In addition, I’ve been sick since January 1st, which hasn’t helped. Luckily, the first three days when I was in bed happened to be the end of my holiday vacation, so I didn’t miss any work and I managed to enjoy the last part of my family’s visit.

I’ve been able to work since last weekend, but am still not 100%. I’m plugging along. From the flu, to a cold, then one and now both eyes infected, I haven’t been online all that much. A little of reading blogs and a little on facebook, but I still have low energy. I’m not asking for sympathy, either, just my way of saying “hello” and letting you know what’s going on in my world and wanting to know how you all are doing! 🙂

So, Happy New Year, once again, and now that the new year has commenced, what are your thoughts on resolutions?

Have you set new goals for 2014?

Do you view resolutions as new challenges or added disappointments?

Well, my first goal is to get well! 🙂 But I think I have to let it run it’s course and keep my spirits up.

My second goal is to continue on the marketing of my 2013 book, “New Day, New Dreams” with my first poetry reading being a great opportunity on March 31st.
One of our local libraries has been very nice to work with me and I am excited, along with being very nervous. However, I have wonderful tips and advice from my good friend, Julie at http://juliecatherinevigna.wordpress.com. So I believe if I follow her words of wisdom, there is a smaller chance I’ll fall flat on my face. 🙂

My third goal is to get in better shape by shedding ten pounds I found last year. Once I’m feeling up to it again, Copper and I will continue to do our power walks so we’ll both be happy. (Thanks to my family for keeping him happy while I’ve been ill.)

I’ve also heard many great things about Yoga, so maybe I’ll incorporate that into my routine, too. Any Yoga thoughts out there? 

I’m turning 53 this year and as I get older, I want to challenge myself. I’m not a fitness guru, like my good friend, Renee, http://positiveboomer.net, as she continues to amaze me with her energy and devotion to treating her body right with exercise each day. Not to mention how fabulous she looks! However, I do want to stay active for my health and personal well being.

And later in the year, I’ll be working on my second collection of poetry. Other than these, I hope to continue writing poetry that you enjoy and also to try some new forms (out of my comfort zone).

A big event I’d like to share is the 25th wedding anniversary for my hubby and I, coming up on January 21st. We can’t believe 25 years have gone by; 26 of being together. Although, since I’ve been sick, our vacation plans might have to be postponed and that’s okay. Every day is a celebration, as long as we’re together. ♥

In closing, I’ll leave you with some words to ponder…
finding humor in tough situations tends to relax our brains and bodies.

Getting a cold in the nose
is okay, I suppose
but a cold in the eye
is not okay (sigh)
Dealing with the flu
isn’t  fun to do
being chilled in the house
isn’t good for the spouse
But these germs will go
this I know
so let’s focus on Friday
make it great in every way
May your weekend be blessed
with very little stress

I hope you enjoyed this “little bit” of humor
and I wish you all great health and a Happy Weekend!

Lauren 🙂 ♥

Note: All photos, except our wedding photo were found on Google images.