Good Bye 2006

As this year comes to a close, the media is filled with reviews of the past year. I ruminate about the past and start thinking about the new year. Unlike millions of people, I won't waste my time making New Years resolutions. What would be the point? Who do you know that actually made a resolution and kept it? If you do know someone who claims to have made a New Years resolution and kept it, chances are they lied. So again, why bother?

Instead of resolutions, I say goodbye to 2006 with love, admiration, and gratefulness to those people or events who made the planet a sweeter place, and vow in 2007 (not a resolution just a desire) to get a hell of a lot more sleep. (despite the voices)

• To my family (you know who you are): who despite their proclivity towards complete insanity continue to love me unconditionally, continue to stand strong and united no matter what the gods send our way.
  
• My friends : the "comadres" Loli, The mother hen, who despite her own trials and tribulations, always calls and emails, knowing I hardly ever return either. Yolanda, with her words of love and magical healing, the wisest soul I know. The two of you have taught me the real meaning of friendship. Dan and Jeannie, Oh, how I miss our 3 person parties, the decadence of our relationship, the jokes no one but us will ever understand. "the boys" again proving that men can sometimes be the best girlfriends.
  
• white chocolate: I am grateful, admire and love your existence
• Cochise: sweet kitty gato, your purring has stopped my tears more often then I care to admit.
  
• my ipod: because of you, music is always at the ready, evoking a plethora of emotions
  
• my cousins: (and if you know my family, you know that "cousins" number in the millions) Those I am becoming re-acquainted with and those who since childhood are part of my memories.
  
• laughter: it really is the best medicine.
• The man in my life (you know who you are): you always believe in me, never give up on me, spoil me, love me, tolerate all my bullshit, and after all these years still crack me up like no other.
  
• fruity cheerios: (not to be confused with fruit loops) a meal at any time of the day.
• health: although not perfect, I still have the energy to continue this adventure.
  
• My mother in law: your generosity of spirit and loving nature are cherished.
• Puerto Rico: my birth place, my current home, you have reawakened my pride in country and culture. (except for reggaeton which sucks and should be banned)
• Natures wonders: every day I am amazed at the beauty that is you
• platanos: my comfort food
• Everything and everyone else who crossed my path in 2006, who challenged me, shared their wisdom, or altered my being in any way.

In retrospect 2006 wasn't that bad. I jumped many hurdles, learned a few life lessons, laughed, became stronger and more determined than ever. Goodbye 2006, come on 2007, I'm ready.