Starting the New Year Off Right.

So, it’s here…..the new year, 2021. Midnight rolled in with the sound of what could very well have been someone firing a pistol into the year. Very loud, seemingly close by and without the rhythmic sequence of a string of firecrackers, the sudden explosion caught me off guard and sent Maggie, our dog, flying off the chair and charging toward the back den door, barking her head off as if to warn me that someone was out there in our back yard. Fortunately, the noise was short-lived as if someone just wanted to let the rest of the neighborhood (including those who didn’t really care and had already gone to bed) that the new year had arrived. I had remained awake to say goodbye to the year that ended and to welcome the dawn of a new decade. Well, not actually. It was more like I was caught up in the movie I was watching and typically stay up late anyway. There’s something about being retired that reminds you there will be no alarm going off at a certain time in the morning and “every day’s a Saturday”. So, after the “shooting” ceased and it appeared none of those “bullets” returned to earth through my roof, I let the dogs out for one final opportunity to do their business in the back yard instead on my rug while I’m asleep.

I look forward to putting down my thoughts on different matters as the year continues and share it will all who care to visit. I have given some consideration to the boundaries that I might set for myself on how much controversy I am willing to stir up with what I write. Freedom of speech, as guaranteed by our Constitution allows to say just about anything. But we live in world where a difference of opinion easily stirs the emotions of someone who sees the same thing differently. I started my day this morning by sending birthday wishes to my little sister and in the days, weeks, and months that lie ahead, may the creative juices flow and let’s see what thoughts are set free. New Year’s resolutions? I suppose if I had any to share, they would be to remain healthy, free of medication, continue to be happy and keep the stress levels at a minimum. 2021……..Bring it on!