A lot of people might find me weird because I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions. Never have made a New Year’s resolution. Not that I can recall anyway.
Many may find me odd for a multitude of reasons. For instance, my husband gave me his old iPhone when he recently updated, but I continue to use my little old-fashioned flip phone. And I don’t text. I have enough squint lines around my eyes that I need to visit leading eye specialists for checkups.
Just to show you how out-of-date I am, I’ve never used a cash machine. And we turn the Wi-Fi off at 7:30 PM for a couple of reasons: I sleep better and I’m forced to take a break from the internet. Time for reading!
I made a humongous resolve when I decided to stop drinking alcoholic beverages. I have nothing against alcohol in moderation, but it messes up my sleep around 2:30AM. When everyone else is snoozing peacefully. Fortunately, there are excellent options for addiction treatment and detox in Australia that can support anyone ready to make a similar change. And not drinking saves me from having to attend AA meetings. I also consider AA and this rehab abroad excellent, worthwhile institutions.
For family parties, we keep Sparkling Cider and filtered water on hand.
Another biggie was when I drastically cut back on my mega sugar-intake after a doctor mentioned I had an enlarged pancreas. Yikes, that got my attention. And I had a Gluten-Intolerance DNA test (I refuse to call it a disease), that two respected medical doctors stated was a viable test. Boo-hoo, no one loves bread more than I do! But sometimes, even with the best medical advice, errors can occur in diagnosis or treatment, leading to unnecessary complications. Trust Washington medical malpractice attorneys to fight for justice, delivering personalized representation for victims of medical errors.
Can you resist a scrumptious dessert at a restaurant?
Same goes for sugar. But for my health’s sake neither are not on the menu anymore. Except chocolate that’s 85% or higher-it’s an acquired taste.
I only eat the dark chocolate on the far left. The rest are for guests.
Some of my friends have had some really cool resolutions that they managed to stick with. For example, one of my friends has always been into music and is the designated DJ at any of our house parties, so he decided to take it seriously and buy some dj equipment to get started in a side career. He loves it and has never regretted his decision!
Some of my other friends also decided to take on a side hustle to make a bit of extra cash by doing things like starting an internet sharing business. This is good because if any Wifi is underutilized it can be transferred to other people who would make the most out of the wifi you are not using, if this seems like something of interest to you then you can read more online.
Although I don’t make New Years Resolutions, I’ve conquered a few battles … so far. Have you ever made a successful New Years Resolution? What gave you resolve to follow through?
Amish-made quilted purse from Lancaster County, PA
Leave a comment to enter to win this Amish-made quilted purse from Lancaster County, PA, plus a signed copy of a novel from The Legacy of Lancaster County Trilogy, CBA bestseller Leaving Lancaster, its sequel Pennsylvania Patchwork, or Forever Amish. USA and Canada. Winner chosen at random and has 3 days to respond. Winner announced on next week’s Blog. Good luck to everyone!
Last year, I challenged myself to fill a “Joy Jar”. I dropped in at least one thing each day that brought joy to my life. On New years day, I read through them all – about 500!! That’s my resolution again this year but I want at least two a day – one of them to be something I did to bring joy to someone else.
A terrific idea, Kathleen! Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. Have a joy-filled day!
Kate
No, I don’t do resolutions. I do fast for the first few weeks of the year, though. It reminds me of what’s important and of my role in this crazy life – things I lose track of quickly.
Oh, dear, I hate the thought of fasting, even if Biblical and maybe practical if a person’s weight is an issue. I get grumpy when hungry … Good luck with your fast and in the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t per say make New Years resolutions but I do try to change something. Like last year it was to give all my worries and stress to God, and it worked! I had the most stress free year. This year will be to trust God with what I need instead of trying to be in control all of the time. AND read more books lol
What is your secret to giving all your worries and stress to God, without grabbing them right back, Bettina? I would love a stress free year. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I have read all 3 books on my kindle. They are great. Would love to have the signed copies of the books. The quilted purse is beautiful. Thank you for a chance to win these.
Thanks for writing and boosting my confidence, Barbara! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I agree with the last comment, I will give all my worries to the Lord He is the only one who can take care of them
I believe the truth of your statement, Lois, but easier said than done. For me, anyway. But I try. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I am trying to improve my health with the help of three great doctors. Did manage to drop 25 lbs. but not the way I wanted to lose it…I got deathly ill. These doctors saved my life.
Good for you for trying to improve your health, Janet, and for snagging three great doctors. I hope your next attempt will be successful Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
This year To be a better person. Since I’m the bag lady queen , I’m in love with the purse. Good luck to everyone.
You’ve got me guessing: What is a better person? as I imagine all of us could improve in one way or another, Sparkle. Glad you like the purse. Good luck!
Kate
No, I don’t do resolutions, just try to be a better person than the year before. I would love to win your book giveaway and especially the beautiful purse. Thanks for the chance.
I’m delighted you entered the giveaway, Carol. Good luck!
Kate
I didn’t make any this year I would love to read one of the books haven’t got any of this series
I would certainly love you to read one of my books, Missy. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t make new years resolutions because I don’t keep them.
Just say to myself to show the love of Jesus to others like God wants us to.
A wonderful pursuit, Joyce. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Cut back on my sugar in take walk 7 miles a day.Doing the same in the new year to get rest of my weight off
You have my empathy with the sugar, Ernestine. I felt like a sugar-holic I craved it so much. But eventually the cravings lessoned until I don’t miss it at all. Seriously. Walking 7 miles a day might be a stretch, even for me who walks every day. I walk almost every day for an hour. Not sure how far that is. Be kind to yourself, okay? It makes staying on track easier, Good luck in the giveaway!
kate
I don’t make resolutions, I do however always tell myself not only at the new year but everyday to live my best life that God intended for me to live. To do good deeds, to ask myself before I do something if what I’m about to do is something that will make the people I care about proud or will make them disappointed, If it’s the latter I don’t do it because in the end I know it’s not the perfect life God intended for me. I keep me faith strong and then I know I don’t need to make a resolution each year, all I need to do is strengthen my faith in his love for me and those I love.
You sound as though you’ve come up with the perfect solution, Cherese. I disagree in one area: When I became a Christian in my early 30s many of the people I cared about were disappointed, if not flabbergasted. What God intended for me is not what my family and most of my friends had in mind. But I realize you and I are in completely different circumstances. Best of luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I stopped doing resolutions as well. . . .I just keep plugging day in and day out. I try to stay positive because there is too much negativity in our world. While there are some things to be upset about – one can always look up and find hope. Happy New Year!
You have a great attitude, Betsy. I’m a daily plugger too. You are right; negativity looms everywhere and we need more positive people. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t do resolutions, as I tend to break them before I really get started! Love the purse would love to win.
In that case, you’ve found your best option, Joann. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t make New Year’s Resolutions! I just move forward & I’m thankful for each new day the love of God my husband,family, & friend’s! I am going to be working hard on a move for myself & hubby to peaceful Amish country,where I can sit back & enjoy the simple life enjoy the Amish people & their way’s & read my Amish book’s,that’s my goal.
It sounds as though you’ve got a fabulous goal ahead, Kathleen. Best of luck in achieving that peaceful Amish country move. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t do resolutions, but together my husband and I both try to find a way to improve our marriage of 45 years. We will either give more compliments…from the heart…not just blurt one out because then it isn’t meaningful. We help each other more, but he ends up helping me much more often….lol Also we help out others….it gives us great pleasure to help those in need…kinda of rejuvenates soul.
Wow, Linda, you and your husband have a fabulous marriage. I am going to have to show your comment to my husband. He and I could both benefit. Thanks for your letter and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I would love to have that purse I never make a New Year resolution because they don’t work for me
Thanks for entering the giveaway, Jennifer. Good luck!
Kate
This year I want to be more intentional with everything I do.I want to pray more intentionally,take time too take better care of myself,as well as my family.
I should write down your list and use them myself, Lynn. All excellent goals. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
This past year, I only used bills when paying for something. I put the change in a coffee can, then used the money to go on a Girlfriends Getaway Weekend.
This year I am resolving to be a better friend – even to myself!
Good resolve, Kate! Years ago, I put a framed photo of myself as a toddler by my bed to encourage myself to be nicer to myself. I mean I wouldn’t be so hard on a little girl, would I? The photo’s still in the bedroom and I’m still a kinder friend. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’m so not make resolutions. I set goals instead. Thanks for this opportunity.
Setting goals is an excellent plan, Tina. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I really don’t have a resolution, but I’d like to find a better paying job, continue read 32 books and continue crocheting and cross stitching.
I hope you do find a better paying job, Myrtle. Don’t give up until you do. Thanks for entering the giveaway. Please enjoy your reading and crocheting. Sounds fun.
Kate
i need this purse as my skins so senstive i have to use cloth purses, and i adore your books so both would be a blessing, i do make New Years Resolutions some work some dont, i feel the ones that dont are because i made wrong choices.
If you won this purse it would be great, Shirley. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I don’t make New Years resolutions as I usually don’t follow through, even if my intentions to do so are good. This year I’m going to try staying on my diet and hope nothing else goes wrong which would require being hospitalized.
I hope you are successful in your endeavors, Judy. Definitely, stay out of the hospital If possible. I hate even going to the doctor’s office because there are sick people there, and I don’t want to catch what they have. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t make resolutions, although I do feel a sense of excitement each new year. It reminds me to think of life’s possibilities. Plenty of good books are part of the infinite possibilities.
I agree, Kelly, I feel a sense of excitement with the new year. Also, a wee bit of stress as I see deadlines approaching and I’m behind … December is a month where I tend to accomplish less, for good reasons. I like your attitude better. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Love your blog, Kate, and of course your wonderful books. I am not the resolution type either although this year I am resolving to be a blessing to someone and delight to God every day.
I’m glad you enjoy my blog, Nyla. Two excellent resolutions. Too bad everyone in the world doesn’t have your great attitude. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t recall making any resolution – but every year I hope that I can get my weight under control as well as I have my sugar! If I could do that my sugar would be even better – so one would think that would be motivation enough!!! Sadly it has not happened yet but my hope for this year is the same. So we shall see. Happy New Year Sweet Lady!
I hope you are successful, Connie. I was not over weight when I gave up sugar, but my health was in jeopardy. Sugar must be like alcohol to an alcoholic, as giving it up was excruciating. I could even smell it on people’s breaths. Happy New Year to you and good in the giveaway!
Kate
I’ve try some but it didn’t seem like i could as i was aiways working and didn’t have time,since i’m retired i just walk 5 days a week for 30 mln. The Dr.said i need to since i had my heart attact back ln2009,thanks for a chance to win .have a bless day.
Thanks for writing, Barbara. Good for you for walking 30 minutes five days a week. Excellent! Wishing you the best of luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I generally do not make resolutions. I have, however, been successful in overcoming a few challenges in the past. Smoking and biting my nails were really bad habits I had for years. Through much prayer and some behavior modification they are things I no longer struggle with.
Wow, Tracie, good for you! And thank the Lord for answered prayer. I’m so fortunate I never smoked (well, maybe three packs) because my mother would’ve killed me. I congratulate you on overcoming both. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
No new year’s resolutions for me. All I do is daily try to be a better person & always treat others the way I want to be treated. What it takes to accomplish those involves other steps, but those are the cliff notes.
Yes, Dali, I imagine those are only the cliff notes because both take great thought and determination. I’m wishing you extra good luck in this giveaway!
Kate
Enjoy your blog, and I guess I must be weird/odd also, as I have never used a bank cash machine, don’t drink alcohol, and agree with you on a lot of your choices!
Still sad about having to update to this iPhone after losing my old flip phone, (over 8 mo. ago) along with pics and contacts!
Have loved your books & Love anything Amish ~~~ Happy 2017 Kate!
C.J. you’ve made my day! So what if I’m behind the times? Some of my friends are incredulous that I don’t do banking on the computer and all sorts of things that expose me to being hacked. I’ve heard that people can hack your iPhone with all your info in Starbucks. My credit card sure has been. Once, I’d only had one 24 hours. Apparently people can copy your credit card and passport in your purse. Maybe the new credit cards are safer, I hope. Wishing you all the best in the new year. Happy 2017 to you!
Kate
I don’t make New Year’s resolutions because I try to do my best and live life to the fullest everyday, not just at the beginning of the year. Love the handmade bag and your books. Thank you for the chance to win them
A wonderful attitude, Joy! Every day. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t make new years reselutions. If I want to change something about my life I start right then I don’t wait for the new year.
Excellent, Sara! Best wishes for your success and in the giveaway!
Kate
Yes I do make new years resolutions:…first of all I aim to stay focused on my health and exercise daily…and also try to have more time set aside a few hours of mornings to do some reading….and I too would be overjoyed to win….but I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing such wonderful books, that I so enjoy…:)
You are very generous, Linda. Thanks! I’m on my stationary bike in the basement right now because it’s too cold to walk. Without our health, life grinds to a halt. No fun. I’ve been there. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t do resolution either. I just live day by day. Is funny how you mention how you still use a flip cell phone, my children make fun of me because I my email is with AOL. Com.
When do kids stop being embarrassed of us, Karen? Age 50? I have an AOL account too but I use it for online purchases only because someone told me it was easier to hack. Never had that fact verified. It has 1700+ unanswered emails … Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I wonder when our kids will stop razzing us, Karen. When they’re over 40? My AOL account has 1700+ unanswered emails … One of these days I’ll tackle that hideous job, or just erase all. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway.
Kate
I try not to make New Year resolutions because I don’t keep them. I just try to be the best I can be every day.
Love your books Kate. Keep up the great work.
Everyday in every way, Sandi! Thanks for your kind words. Really appreciate the encouragement. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have not made any New Year resolutions. I however make a list of changes I would like to make in my life. Plus list or plans and the normal to do lists daily. The beginning of the year hasn’t gone the smoothest. But I have prayed a few things change. Many Blessings to you for into the New Year! Love reading your posts!
Hope the month smooths out and brings you great blessings, Crissy! I make lists, but end up using them for book marks, Or hide from myself. Good luck in the giveaway, May you enjoy a fabulous New Year!
Kate
I don’t do the resolutions But I do Love reading about The Amish and Love The Beautiful bag! Thank you Kate for the awesome giveaway!
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Sarah. Good luck!
Kate
My resolution is to enjoy life to the fullest and keep smiling. I just love the purse and your books. Thanks for the chance to win and have a blessed New Year!
You mean accumulate more smile lines, Debbie? Definitely better than frown lines. Thanks for your fun comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate f
the only resolution i know i can keep all year is to save all my spare change for the entire year….this past year i saved a couple hundred dollars…it adds up quick!
Wow, I’m amazed, Amy. I still pick up pennies on the street … Maybe I should start a piggy bank or a change jar too. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t do New Year’s resolutions per say (lose x amount of pounds, excercise x a week, etc) I do just try to incorporate healthy ways into my life. I also look for ways to help others and to try to be a better person.
Thanks for the opportunity to win a signed book and the purse (love it!)
Best Wishes in 2017
I love that you wrote and entered the giveaway, Diane. One of my greatest pleasures is helping others. Good luck in the giveaway and best wishes for 2017!
Kate
I don’t do New Year resolutions but every year on my birthday which happens to be December 31st I sit down with my Rembremance letter from that year before and review. Did I do the things I wanted to accomplish, where do I stand on my walk with God, did I reach the goals I set for the year? Then I choose with prayerful meditative thoughts what spiritual gift I need to strengthen and a verse for the year.
Marvelous, Deborah. I’m so impressed by your yearly, prayerful meditations. I can’t help wondering what verse you chose for this year. Thank you for your thought-provoking comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t do resolutions either. I just pray to be more Christ like and the rest falls into place. Thank you for the chance.
Thank you for leaving your comment, Lucy. Sounds like something I should do every day. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I decided this year to not make a resolution but to make a theme for the year. My theme is love. Love myself to exercise and eat healthy, love others to forgive slights, love my enemy by praying for them.
I like your theme, Donna! It makes me think of 1Corinthians 6:19 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…” I highly recommend praying for your enemies, even when your heart’s not in it. I have seen amazing results. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I do not make New Years resolutions either. I just try to do better than the day before. I have read all your books and just enjoy them so much. I would love to win something.
I’m delighted you enjoyed my books, Nancy! Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I want to read the Bible through this year. Have tried in the past but the middle of the year I slack off. This year I will read it all the way through!!!!
A fine endeavor, Dianna. I read the Bible so slowly, as I look up things and read the references. I love the Old Testament, but it is not skimming material. Well, for me, none of it is. I keep one Bible on my bed, which is a good reminder at the end of the day, but many read it first thing. Good luck to you in the giveaway!
Kate
Instead of trying to lose weight or something similar, I try to do something to improve on my character or to better things that I do for others. These seem to be something that I can stick to better than physical resolutions.
Sounds great, Linda. You’ve got me thinking what I could do to build my own character. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
My New Years resolution is to let a fellow employee see the errors that she keeps making by judging people because she is so unhappy. I havr tried desperately to get her to be nicer to people but she just starts on someone else. I have told her she needs to seek her answers in prayer but she just lsughed at me. So i have to leave it be to keep myself happy. I feel lime i failed but others tell me i can’t change someone who doesn’t want to change.I will pray for her anyway!
Praying for her will change both of you for the better, Pamela. Sorry you’re stuck working with someone like that. Good luck in the giveaway!
kate
I don’t make resolutions because I am a complete failure at keeping them! Maybe one year I will succeed. . . .
They are not mandatory, Kathy. I respect people who can make and keep them, but that’s not me. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I don’t make New Year resolutions. I have enjoyed all three of the Leaving Lancaster books but I like the real books….something about the way they feel in my hand. I am anxiously awaiting your next series.
I think the purse is lovely and would love to have it if I am chosen.
I’d love to have you win the purse, Maxine! Thanks for entering and Good luck!
Kate
I have made the new year resolution to lose weight so many times and a few times I did. This year I’m like one of the other girls said above, I’m trying to give my worries over to God. My husband has metastatic renal cancer now for 6 years and he’s doing great and is off his chemo in remission. My Mother’s not doing good but you know we can’t do anything but pray and sees that she gets what she needs and God will see to the rest. So I intend to try not to worry this year.
I would like to have another paperback book of yours. Thanks for the giveaway. I have 2 ebooks and 1 paperback of yours.
Great attitude, Brenda. Be anxious for nothing … (Philippians 4:6-7) is often easier said than done. Good luck to you. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate