The last/first Hodgepodge of the year (depending when you read this.)

It's New Year's Eve Day as I read Joyce's questions, and answer them here.   HAPPY NEW YEAR to all my friends who take a few minutes to read this blog. I wish you all a safe start to 2014, and a wonderful year ahead.  I hope life is good to you in the coming year, and that even when you hit the bumps in the road, you can bounce on through...

1. Times Square is the setting for the infamous ball drop signaling a brand new year...when did you last 'drop the ball' on something? 

Thankfully I can't think of anything major that I dropped the ball on this past year.  I have forgotten things every once in a while and I have gotten upset with myself mostly for my "senior moments". I  hope my brain won't get worse.  it scares me sometimes.  

2.  What is one thing you resolved to do in 2013 that you actually did? 

I had to go back to my blog posts from a year ago to see if I actually made any resolutions.  I guess that tells you right there that I didn't follow through... ha!  But, I re- read my posts and saw that I hoped to work on physical fitness - and I didn't stick with it very well.  So, here's a surprise - not.  It's one of my resolutions for this year!

I am blessed to have good genetics and metabolism.  I don't let myself gain weight.  BUT, BUT, BUT as I age I know how important the need to be active and to be aerobic is for my heart and for my bones.  I have been on Boniva now for over a year and I recently had a new dexi-scan which shows bone strength.  The med is helping me and I am no longer categorized as having oesteoporsis.  I don't want to add more prescriptions to my life if I can help it.  So, I need to take care of myself on an on-going basis...and that means exercise!   So, yes, it's one of my 2014 resolutions.  (See my last post.)

3.  Jack London is quoted as saying "You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club."  Agree or disagree?  Why? 

I disagree with Mr. London on this.  I have sat in front of a blank canvas too many times, waiting and hoping for inspiration.  It didn't happen for me.  I prefer to think a person needs to be "open" for inspiration - to walk through life with eyes wide open, looking for good things and looking for new options. And, I got to tell you, I'm a self-proclaimed pacifist and don't like violence in any form so his quote rubs me the wrong way!  No clubbing please!! ha

4. What was the best thing you ate in 2013? 

Seriously??  Only one thing??  That's impossible to answer!  Just last night I had a great steak. We celebrated the new year early!  I love loaded nachos (no jalapenos), and I will never pass up a bite of warm, chocolate of any kind.  Summer tomatoes are awesome - with fresh corn on the cob.  We had ham smothered in brown sugar and pineapple for Christmas - and homemade mac and cheese.   Delicious!   Sorry, but I can't answer with one "best thing".

5.  Share an anti-resolution...that is, something you plan to keep on doing in the new year. 

I wrote about this very thing in my last blog post.  I am fortunate to be doing many things I enjoy and plan to keep doing them in 2014.  I love playing music, and I love putting together the baby layette baskets for the local hospital.  I enjoy my Book Club and plan to attend more of the book discussions.

6.  The Pantone color of the year for 2014 is radiant orchid.   Like or no like?  would I find this color anywhere in your home or wardrobe? Will you add something in this shade to either? 

Last year's color was a shade of green.  I think that was more acceptable for most.  Including me.  Although people tell me I look good in a light purple color, I don't prefer it.  Now, my sister will be right on for this year's color!  She's a "purple person" and wears it often (and she wears it well I must add!  (:  )    

I will not be running out to the store to buy radiant orchid for my home or for my wardrobe.  I have a couple of lilac (soft purple) tops hanging in my closet.  I think that's enough.

7.  In three words or less sum up your 2013. 

Blessed  -  Happy  - Content.

8.   My random thought. 

Wow.  After just writing my 3 words for 2013, all I can say is I hope at the end of 2014 I can write the same ones!  If I was allowed a few more words I would have added "love" and "family".   Actually, I wish the same for everyone...   and I wish good health and peace in this world.

Goodbye 2013 - you've been great.  Hello 2014!!