One year ago, 2012 had yet to reveal what it was to become. 2012 was to be a year of struggles, both professionally and personally. It was also to be a year of personal exploration and the realization that my life is better when I’m surrounded by those who love me and cherish me for who I am.

If you had asked me for my resolutions last year, I’m sure it was along the lines of eating better, exercising more. This year, however – a year later – I am looking at 2013 with a sense of optimism that I haven’t had in a long time. Even with the unfinished business of a divorce and helping my kids adjust to a different life, I am still optimistic that this year will open the door to the rest of my life and I am looking forward to seeing what is behind that door.

I have already so much to be thankful for. I have beautiful, healthy children who I can love and hold and cherish. And I have a wonderful new relationship that I hope continues to blossom and build on the promise that has presented itself so far. I had forgotten how good it feels to be loved.

So with 2012 in the rear-view mirror, I look to 2013 and my resolutions have more to do with internal happiness than anything else…

I resolve to laugh more and stress less.

I resolve to accept the past, honor the present and embrace the future.

I resolve to listen to my heart as well as my mind.

I resolve to be passionate about things that matter to me.

I resolve to do things that scare me.

I resolve to be the person I want to be.

2013, let’s do this.

That when the Daycare provider tells you that all the little boys at daycare are afraid of your daughter that… it’s… it’s not a good thing.

(But it makes me smile, nonetheless.)

I was listening to the radio the other day and a commercial for a brand of vodka touted itself as low-carb. I think we’re taking this Atkins thing just a little too far.