Note to self - Alternative to New Year Resolutions?

2 years ago, as result of a Gransnet post, I started a daily diary of what I had been doing ("there will come a time when you won't be able to remember...." ) I have kept this up but this year I am going to change to recording (in writing) conversations and thoughts I have had rather than just what I did. Also maybe more emphasis on experiences rather that things as Christmas presents next year.

I rarely make NYR's and have never kept any that I have made! Then two years ago I made one... I was going to learn to paint in watercolour properly...... It's been wonderful! I joined weekly classes then 1 day and 2 day workshops them bought some online tutorials then put some paintings in an exhibition..... I sold some, I got some commissions! I made my old six into a studio.... It was the best of resolutions and I've never looked back.

My old attic was what I meant to say! It's blooming cold up there but great light for a studio!

The last time I made a NYR out loud was at a pub when out with friends. I announced that at last on NYE 2007 I'd learn to drive (after mulling this over for a few months). I was 52, it took 17 months and 6 tests but eventually I got there. I've decided not to say anything out loud again but will hopefully smile politely if anyone tells me that I've lost a lot of weight. So shhh! Don't tell anyone.

I moved house last January so decided what changes I would make, turned out be the worse year of my life so no way will I do it again.

Omaoma please tell us more, what are the delicious foods you eat on this low carb diet.

The only NYR I've ever kept was the one I made in 1971 to never make any more NYRs.

Decided to learn to read music "proper" in September 2015. Did it...got to Grade 1 and still am still teaching myself to this day.

Made an appointment in September of this year, with the surgery for 27th December, which is the day I gave up smoking.

I never make new years resolutions on 1st January, pshycologically it doesn't happen for me. September seems to be my time to renew.

I've been busy clearing out old files and deleting unwanted stuff off computer. So aiming to be more organised in 2018. Also going to try to 'do ' more with my writing - though not sure what that might entail!

My NYR is to eat and drink more. I didn't eat any extra things over Christmas and really need the nutrition food provides.

I don't make NYRs but last year was given a fitbit for Christmas by my DS and DD and it has revolutionised my life. Although I sometimes fail to reach my daily target I no longer beat myself up about it but I have increased my activity levels enormously. I work in a school and was shocked to realise how little I walked during the day, so now I always try to go the 'long way' between lessons and then go for a walk late in the evening to complete the daily target. I often walk to places I used to drive to and whn driving I try to park a bit further from my destination to get a bit of a walk as well. I feel so much fitter and have lost some weight too. My blood pressure has improved too. The best present I've had in years and this year I'm making a resolution to keep it up!