I have succumbed to the tradition and decided that my resolution would be to write a blog chapter at least once a month. Now your resolution is that you have to read them. So which will be more difficult?

I had another resolution this year to turn into a handsome Prince. Princess Peg keeps applying the kisses but dang, it’s not happening – she must keep trying 🙂

I recently drove back to NY for work from my home in NC. I realized that every State that I drove into on my selected route (which includes VA, WVA, MD, PA, NJ and NY) has a nice “welcome center” as I crossed the state line – EXCEPT New Jersey. It is always a welcome site to see the oncoming welcome center – finally a place to get out, walk around, get a new free map, get a snack and PEE, usually not in that order. Most states have a big sign with a state symbol or character as you come to their WelcomeCenter. NJ just has an old man on the side of the road with his middle finger extended “Welcome This…”

Beyond that is the always anticipated “Rest Area”. It is always a challenge to judge whether this rest area is “the one” or do I risk it and attempt fate waiting for the one 77 miles ahead?

Once again every State had rest areas EXCEPT NJ – well actually NJ had the literal rest area. As I approached the exit off ramp that said Rest Area – I noticed that’s exactly what it is – just a place to rest – just parking spaces, NO bathrooms, NO snacks, No walking areas, just an old man again with his middle finger extended “Rest this….” All that anticipation knowing the State line was just ahead and now – I must find an exit soon!

It is soo cold back on my work job site. I need a new safety vest. I have so many layers of clothes and coats on that I can barely get my safety vest on – I look like a sumo wrestler in a training bra. Now that’s not a pretty site.

It’s great to start the New Year with a job, with a loving family, with the anticipation of a good year ahead – we will blog thru it together and see what happens. Happy New Year.