Aren’t you tired of hearing this? It’s used by lots of companies to encourage you to lose weight, get a new job buy new clothes.

I don’t know about you, but the new year has never been that dramatic for me. Sure, I pledge to do things differently, but the changes are small, and in some cases, not obvious to anyone but me.

Being stuck in the house for the last eight months has changed the things I want to do differently for this New Year. I have a whole new outlook on what’s important to me.

I’ve been getting rid of clutter and lots of unnecessary things that I own. I donated lots of clothes and shoes. I’ve sold pieces of furniture that I’ve held on to because they had sentimental value.

I hate wearing a mask, so I’ve certainly cut down on my shopping both in the grocery store and retail stores. I’ve used up a lot of canned goods and frozen foods. I’ve gotten more creative with my cooking and rarely get take-out.

I’ve connected with some friends I haven’t spoken to in a while. I have a real appreciation of my friends. This pandemic has certainly shown me those that are real friends and those that are just acquaintances.

I’ve struggled with loneliness. I am a people person. Any job I’ve ever had surrounded me with people. I’ve worked in the beauty industry my whole adult life and ran a bed and breakfast.

I miss my clients, I miss my guests. I’ve never had so much time on my hands. I’m getting back to coloring and crafting – something to pass the time.

It’s going to be a long winter. Let’s all pray that spring comes early, and the vaccine gets distributed so we can all get back to life. I know I have a greater appreciation of things I took for granted!