New Years’ Resolutions always seem to focus on what you should give up in the coming twelve months.  But I think it’s far more worth while to make a list of the things you want to do more of in 2014.  First on my list – I want to read more.  There are so many books and so little time to read them, so my resolution is to make the time and squeeze more novels in.  Second, I want to write more.  I hope to publish my second novel in the Spring and get the creative juices flowing for a third that will take shape during the next Nanowrimo.  Third, I want to paint more.  Painting is my other passion in life and I hope to exhibit some new pieces in 2014.  Fourth – I want to take time to stop and smell the roses.  Life can sometimes feel like hurtling towards an ever-shifting finish line, so I’m going to take more time to appreciate what’s around me and all the gifts I have received in my life.

Seeing as I’m reading Neil Gaiman at the moment, I thought I’d include his New Year’s Wish here.  He says it far more eloquently than I ever could (resolution number five – be more eloquent!), so best wishes for 2014 and take his words to heart.

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.