Hi!  I feel like I should start off by channeling my inner Eric B. and Rakim, “It’s been a long time, I shouldn’t have left you, without a strong rhyme [blog] to step to.”  Wave your hands in the air, and wave ‘em like you just don’t care!  Be careful not to knock over your computer.  Ok, I’m getting back on task.  I know it seems like forever since I posted.  I apologize for the absence.

Have you ever had so much to do that you didn’t end up doing anything?  My head has been swimming with so many creative ideas, and I just have not written them down.  Dang it.  Somewhere, I have some brain cells that are a virtual literary black hole.  I don’t have a good excuse, so don’t start quoting the infamous poem “Excuses” to me.  Consequently, this brings me to my first goal of 2011 to write these thoughts down, and begin posting regularly again to my blog.

As I reflect on this year, I have to admit that I am ready for a new one.  2010 was like a twisted fairytale.  There were some epiphanies that were life changing mixed in with some crappy events.  I must admit that I am blessed that my crappy events did not make me bitter or depressed.  Also, the negative experiences in my life pale in comparison to the drama and hardship so many have had visit their lives.  I am sending hugs and love to all those that have had losses, heart wrenching pain, illness, and financial devastation.  Who would ever think that so many people would be challenged to find ways to provide basic necessities, i.e. food, shelter, clothing, for themselves and their families.

I have gained so much clarity this year in my personal and professional life.  I am in the process of re-evaluating my dreams to transform them into goals with action steps.  The biggest thing I wish for all of you, outside of world peace (insert pageant wave here), is maintaining the ability to dream.  As life happens and knocks us down, it becomes so easy to stop dreaming while focussing on survival.

As the new year approaches, I have to laugh that quite a few of my resolutions are the same as last year.  They were some wonderful goals.  I just didn’t quite execute all of them year long.  I need to make them a habit again, i.e. working out regularly, eating healthy, writing regularly, and not snoozing more than once.  I am a strong believer that we must take advantage of second chances.

I’d like to wish you a great New Year’s Eve that is eclipsed by an even better 2011.  We all have to leave the negativity in 2010 and bring positivity into the new year.  I’m working on radiating enthusiasm and love daily in 2011.  Let’s all hold onto our dreams and make firm plans to make them reality.  Anything is possible if you can believe it.  Even the little engine could.  Be safe, and I won’t be gone so long.

Much nub (grinning ear to ear),

Dr. Ericka