Happy 2010! "My Frends Have"

Consider this my once-yearly sap-filled post. You've now been warned!

This time of year we see many bloggers as well as traditional media come out with their "best of" lists. We're also inundated with New Years Resolution lists. I have no problem with those types of lists; its a simple case of the fact that I'm not very good with them and they don't seem to do much to help me (especially organizationally) so generally I eschew them as useless for myself.

I've always skipped the resolution lists; my style has always been to fill various notebooks with lists of a different ilk. I enjoy writing down ideas, everything from travel dreams and personal goals; to ideas for fun things I'd like to do with the Punk Glam Princess; to planning a special night out with my husband; along with renovation and redecorating projects. You'd be amazed at how goals -- even silly ones -- manifest quickly after making lists like this. The PG Princess and I started an idea book filled with fashion, sewing, needlework, and DIY projects. When she gets the urge to do something creative, I try to have her flip through that first, then vintage fashion and craft books so she can get her creative juices flowing. (The PGP has become quite good at using the sewing machine solo and most recently figured out on her own how to use my serger!)

Instead of "best of" or resolution lists at this time of year I muse on my loved ones, and friends both old and new. I've been fortunate in '09 to make some extraordinary new friends and been lucky to keep up the my older important (to me) friendships. I've pondered the ways they've elevated my life, and how I want to spend more time with them. I hope I've brought as much joy and love to them as they've lavished on me. I also use this time to release the toxic people from my life that keep me from loved ones I very much want to see and spend more time with.

This song "My Friends Have" by Marianne Faithfull -- I believe written by PJ Harvey and produced by Nick Cave -- always reminded me of family and friends, both new and old and rather than make a list, I think those of you reading this will know that I mean you.



So here's to a brand new year filled with potential, and hope! May the world be a better place for all its inhabitants!

Cheers!