Happy New Year

Hello, dear friends.

There’s been a lot of talk recently of how people are really hoping 2011 is a lot better than 2010. There seem to have been an inordinate number of hard knocks this year amongst the people I know and love – too many falls, car accidents, chronic pains, malignant growths, financial troubles, imploding relationships, hospitalizations, and lives cut way too short. Even though we are an extremely fortunate group of people overall, it doesn’t mean we can’t hope for less of these kinds of pain.

Here’s what I wish for you in the New Year:

• knowledge of whom you love, and who loves you, and especially why;
• grace and competence in what you do each day;
• conversations that comfort and sustain your mind;
• things to pick you up when you’re feeling blue (sunshine, good music, hugs, hot tea, toddler kisses, whatever);
• true communication when it matters most;
• tranquil moments in which to breathe and relax;
• someone to lean on and tell your problems to;
• high-quality sleep;
• high-quality hugs;
• the resolution of your biggest stressor;
• the fulfillment of your dearest wish;
• and days that flood you with hope, well-being, and clarity.

Just for good measure, here is a li’l clip that never fails to make me smile, in all its cheesy, ridiculous beauty. As you know, I friggin’ love the singing and dancing. Especially when there are groovy Caribbean guys, mariachis, and a belly dancer with a shamadan to boot. And a cameo from adorable James Marsden. Not to mention key-changes so suave they make my ears hug themselves.

Happy New Year, and lots of love!

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