I have read that according to etiquette experts it is acceptable to say “Happy New Year” for the first seven to ten days of the year. I admit, it seems odd to me to use that phrase anytime after January 1 and I am rethinking that this year. So, I wish you a Happy New Year!

I say that because it is an accomplishment to make it through another year. It is a gift to enter a new year. 

For some it may feel like they are stuck in the same old jobs, the same frustrating circumstances, and the same day-to-day tedium. However, even in the midst of monotony, we are here. We are alive and we can strive to make every moment a fresh beginning. We only need to look around us to find inspiration. 

Looking back at my past January blogs —

In 2021, I wrote:

Blank Canvas

January 6, 2021 (Blank Canvas)

(A new year is like a bank canvas waiting and ready to be filled.) Whether you see the blank canvas or page as scary or daunting . . . remember it is also filled with wonderful possibilities. Begin with baby steps. Dare to be vulnerable. Vulnerability is essential to the flow of ideas. Unlock your creativity. Begin to fill your blank canvas!

---

In 2022, I wrote:

See Light Through the Darkness

January 1, 2022 (Welcome to the New Year)

As much as I would like to skip winter, darkness, and the hard parts of life—those are what force me to really look at myself, others, and the world. It is in that looking beyond myself that brings new insights about humanity and creation.

My reminders to myself this new year?

see the darkness but look through it to the light
express gratitude every day
share love every day
enjoy music, make music, compose music
remember to sing and dance
believe in the promise of spring

---

In 2023, I wrote:

The End or the Beginning?

January 5, 2023 (Looking Forward and Back)

January is named for the Roman god Janus who is the god of gates and doors—transitions. His image is of two faces, one looking backward and one looking forward. After my long look backwards, I am ready to look forward and move ahead—finding beginnings where things have ended.

Here’s to more words waiting to be thought, written, and shared . . . from me to you.

---

A wish for you in 2024:

May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself.

—Neil Gaiman (b. 1960) English author