How do you approach the New Year? Do you anticipate New Beginnings, New Adventures, New Love even? Are you happy to see this current year end? Do you set goals or Resolutions? I’m not sure myself.

I’ve taken down my Gratitude Jar and gone through the notes that I have been stashing throughout the last few years. It has been quite an interesting year. . .

Cooking with my Gratitude Gals once a month at the Ronald McDonald House was and is a most enjoyable event. We cook once a month. We take a turns planning the meal. Sometimes the oven is easy turn on, sometimes not. Linda is usually in charge of that since neither Melissa, nor I seem to get it right. Each of us has a couple of favorite menus and have a great time cooking for the residents. They are always so appreciative. Thank you Gratitude Gals.

Had a couple of Parties at my home this year. Welcome to both old and new friends. It was a pleasure spending time with you and enjoying your company. Anticipating doing more of this in the New Year. No plans yet as to when but it is on my radar.

meetup.com is a wonderful source for meeting new people and learning new things. I have met such wonderful friends through this organization. If you haven’t heard of it, check it out! There are groups for a wide variety of interests. Just type in ‘meetup.com’ in your internet search bar and look for one in your area.

Trips to Los Angeles to visit family and friends. A little ‘baby sitting’ while there too. Yes, the little man in my life is adorable. We have had some interesting ‘conversations’ as only a 2 year old toddler can. ‘No, No GG, me fine.’ (smile, sigh)

Writing. Yes, I had forgotten how much I enjoy and love to write. I was lucky enough to join a group of comedy writers. They are awesome. I am so grateful to have been included in this group of creative, funny and wonderful people and look forward to the meetings. Much laughter ensues as we read our contributions. Great feedback and advice. Congratulations to each and every one of you  for a fun filled productive year. We had one member’s Play produced this year. Congratulations Carl. Another big Congratulations t o Ronnie who published her cozy mystery: “Gruesome Greetings” (available on amazon.com). My big deal is: I took the huge step to start a blog and website this year. Thank you writers for the encouragement.

A girls weekend in Siesta Key. Yes, more of those are also on the agenda for next year. That was a FRANtastic weekend. Enjoyed a wonderful Peruvian Restaurant and had the most exciting ‘taxi’ ride ever. Let’s just say, “What Happens with Girlfriends, Stays with Girlfriends.”

Passport. Yipeee, I actually have a Passport for the first time in my life. Where am I going to go? I don’t know but it is exciting to have one! (Not a bad picture either) I may start with a cruise. Who knows?

So, as the year winds down, I find excitement and anticipation are the manner in which the New Year is being approached. I will continue on my path of spiritual growth, creativity and just loving life. Yes, may set a few goals and or resolutions too. No regrets. It has been an amazing, remarkable and fabulous year.

Happy New Year 2015 and may it bring you Joy, New Beginnings and all things wonderful and even some FRANtastic things as well.