This one is supposed to be about New Year's Resolutions, but I really don't do resolutions. I feel like they're supposed to be things that you change instantly, and that sounds like an all-or-nothing decision. Sounds like the same problem people have with diets. When they cheat on their diet, they decide the diet failed them and they give up. It makes more sense to make small changes and to take everything gradually.

I also have an issue with the idea that everything can change because of something so arbitrary as a day on the calendar, but it's a good psychological marker.

So instead of listing big resolutions, I'm going to list a few small changes I'd like to make over time, to be a happier, healthier person.

1. I've been doing a lot of woodworking lately, and it makes me happy. I'd like to keep at it, and open an Etsy shop. My neighbor told me today that he would buy a piece of work from me, so I definitely see potential for this to be both a hobby and a way to make a little extra money.

2. My new apartment is right across the street from a lake with a trail around it. I've been taking my wee timorous beastie for walks around the lake and would like to keep at that too. I would also like to start using the fitness center and get back into shape. I miss liking the way I look. There's another lake right outside my apartment, so I would love to get my kayak out of storage and take it out on the lake every chance I get.

3. Speaking of my new apartment, I've been in it for a couple months now, and I haven't unpacked anything. I've cleared pathways through the boxes, so I can get where I need to go, but only about three things are actually where they belong. I really don't have a choice but to get started on this. I also need to get rid of about 80% of the stuff in this place.

4. I've got at least three ideas for tattoos that I've been thinking of for a while now. It's time to finish the designs and save up some money to get them done.

I'm sure there are plenty of other things I should add to this list, like eating better, drinking less, etc, but I think this is a good start.

Good luck to everyone else trying to make improvements. Be good to yourselves!