During the last few days of December, a lot of people tend to start looking ahead to the new year.  They’re busy making resolutions; promises to themselves (or others) about things they want to change and/or do better.  And, for the most part, they seem to tie it all to one particular date — the first of January.

I used to look at the new year in much the same way.  But, not anymore.

For our family, important new beginnings and significant milestones don’t take place on January 1st.  Instead they’re sprinkled throughout the year.  Like in March, when my husband and I will celebrate the 20th anniversary of our first date.  And in August, when my son will begin a new school year as a fourth grader, the same grade I taught for more than half of my teaching career.    

To my readers, warm wishes for a happy and healthy 2017!