I've thought some more about my resolutions, and they can pretty much be summed up with one phrase:  take action.  I have some life goals, benchmarks I want to reach, behavior I'd like to change -- it can all be done by taking action -- taking concrete steps to get where I want to be.  Don't talk -- just do.

I've done some housecleaning/purging over the past few days, which feels wonderful, and I'd like to continue to do the same.  As soon as the dust from the closing clears and I have a better sense of my budget, I'm going to get to work painting, decorating, and replacing some furniture and light fixtures around this place.  I can't wait.  I am in dire need of a fresh start.

And as I look back over the new year, I just want to say how grateful I am for many things in my life.  My job and my home, for starters, but more importantly, the people in my life.  My family, who are always there with love and support, especially when things get rough, and my friends.  I have done a lot of thinking lately about who my real friends are, and I am so thankful to have many, many people who fall into this category.  People who I can call on in times of crisis, people who, when I am upset, are fierce protectors -- they not only help me feel better, but they are proactively angry at those who may have upset me in the first place.  They are the people who want to spend time with me, laugh and cry with me, share a meal or a glass of wine.  They understand the importance of communication if we hit ever hit a bump in the road of our friendship, and who will be there when the bump is smoothed over.  For those of you out there reading this, you know who you are. I am so thankful to have you in my life -- happy new year, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of you in 2008.