This is my second attempt at making New Year’s resolutions. In the Armenian tradition it’s all about making a New Year’s wish. The American tradition is about making resolutions.  This year, I’ve embraced both traditions. I’ve made a New Year’s wish and last year’s failed resolutions will get a second chance this year.  

So here they are…

1. Learn how to swim. I just didn’t get around to this last year. I think private lessons might be in order. 
2. Spend less and pay off Visa. There’s no good reason for me to be in debt. Other than I love spending. It’s way less than the American average debt but still.  So, I’ve decided to go on a financial diet. I’m going to try and live on a $100 a week budget for about 3 months. That’s all the money for food/gas/entertainment. I think I can do it. I used to do on less than that in college. I used to pay rent, bills, and have money for entertainment  on A LOT less money than I earn now. So, I think $100 is doable. 
3. Limit myself to 4 alcoholic beverages when I go out.* During the week I don’t drink. But lately I’ve noticed that when I go out — and when I’m not driving — I have a tendency to drink more than I should. And sadly, I’ve become a lightweight over the years. The good news is I’m a cheap date. The bad news is I’m a cheap date. And I really hate the morning after. New Year’s Eve was a lot of fun. But New Year’s Day… well… it took me two Ibuprofen 600s, 32 ounces of coffee, a whole bunch of water and a few additional hours in the morning to feel OK enough to go to spinning class. 
4. Try to figure out what to do with my life AND take some steps towards achieving that goal. I might need to make some changes in my current comfortable existence.
5. Be a little more patient. Patience is NOT one of my virtues. I’m fully aware of this. And I’m trying really hard to get a handle on this. 
6. Travel somewhere new.  I haven’t had a real vacation in quite some time. This year, I plan to take one. Hopefully someplace where I can get a stamp on my passport. Don’t know where but definitely someplace new. 

* This rule does not apply if it’s my birthday or a wedding. Or Hanttulian’s birthday… but his birthday is on St. Patrick’s day, so technically it’s a holiday and I said 4 drinks A NIGHT… so drinking Guinness at 6 a.m. to celebrate Hanttulian’s birthday does not count towards the 4 drinks per night maximum.