Birthdays

Another year has almost ended. I suppose some reflection on the past twelve months might be in order.

At this time last March I was preparing to pick-up my severance check from my employer and begin the process of applying for jobs in the local area. Now, one year later, I am still looking for the local job that will cover my basic expenses. However, a review of the current web-based job boards finds few, if any, positions that are compatible with my background and education.

I doubt that the young woman featured here, along with other, post-war couples, imagined that the economic times of today would be faced by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. After all, she and her husband had lived through the Great Depression along with their parents. At the time of this photograph, unprecedented prosperity was being enjoyed.

On the positive side of the ledger there have been numerous things over the year: great neighbors, good new friends at church (thinking of the Seniors), learning new skills in lawn and pond care, maintained good health, and ran several races. Not bad for the year. Government check has arrived every two weeks, mortgage is still up-to-date, house was warm all winter, and bills are paid every month.

But now I face my personal "new year." I have decided to list a few resolutions:

• No more ranting and raving about politics and more support of the elected leaders (even if I don't agree with their decisions).
• Improve eating habits to support a healthy life style and maintain a level of fitness that will allow me to run a local 5K or 10K race at any time.
• Be on time for all appointments and meetings (this will be a true stretch, particularly since is is frequently stated I will be late for my own funeral).
• Find meaningful employment that will support me and the furry ones.
• Be more thoughtful of others

I will continue to work on this list. Check with me in a year to see how well I have done.

"We all need goals. Life is hard to live without one." - Tony Baucum