In the Western world, we mark the start of a new year on January 1st, thanks to Julius Caesar and his Julian calendar implemented in 45 B.C. The month of January is named after Janus, the Roman deity with two faces - one looking towards the future, the other towards the past. He presided over new beginnings, endings, and transitions - symbolized by doorways and passages.
As the old year fades, and the new one draws near,
As the New Year approaches, I’ve decided to abandon my usual
(and futile) resolution of cutting out sweets. Instead—thanks to my husband’s
gentle nudge—I’m embracing a new one: “Feed your mind,” he always says,
“immerse yourself in something positive and enlightening.” This year, I’m taking his advice to heart. It’s time to
trade my endless binge-watching of conspiracy theory videos for something more
uplifting. Not only will this likely bring clarity, but as a writer, I’m
hopeful it might spark fresh inspiration. To my wonderful readers and fellow writers: may your New
Year be filled with creativity and success. Thank you, from the bottom of my
heart, for your incredible support over the years!
As I entered my thirties, I made the decision to stop setting New Year's resolutions. I realized that every year, no matter how determined I was at first, I only stuck to my resolutions for a few short weeks before reverting back to old habits. Instead, I set small goals every morning that bring me joy and motivation and reflect on my accomplishments each evening to keep a positive outlook. The start of a new year brings with it new challenges and opportunities for growth, but I approach them with a sense of excitement and determination rather than overwhelming pressure to stick to strict resolutions. To my readers, I wish you a happy, healthy, and successful New Year, and thank you for your continuous support and encouragement.
I must confess, I’m not a great one for New Year’s resolutions. So, the reality is it’ll be a New Year, same old me situation. Any attempts at self-improvement will be in dribs and drabs rather than grand gestures doomed to fail.
I’m currently working on a second installment in the Emma Love mystery series. With the Winter Solstice in the rearview mirror, the mountains, the river, and my garden will soon beckon. Hopefully, the rabbits won’t eat all my vegetables this year.
As 2025 fades into history, I’d like to thank my readers for their loyalty in sticking with me on this journey. I appreciate sharing a tale or two with you. The campfires we share might be flameless, but that’s where many friendships and all good stories begin. Happy New Year!
The next year holds lots of possibilities. I’m looking forward to spending time with my great-grandchildren and teaching them how to camp, do first aid, and many other skills. I’ve got four works in progress, including a collaboration with Rhonda, all of which I will make progress on. And at the top of the list, writing more short stories for the anthologies I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of.
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