Reasons to be cheerful

I like to start off a year by looking at the positives... What's this? The grunpy old archer perhaps not so grumpy? (Thosw who really know me, know that I am generally positive in outlook anyway :o) )

Positive number 1

I'm still here! Always a good start to the year when you're still breathing I think. I imagine starting off a year in a state of rigor mortis probably sucks.

Positive number 2

I have an amazing, loving, kind, caring, generous, gorgeous (etc. etc. etc.) wife. Some people take their partners for granted, especially after a few years of marriage, but I give thanks every day for the gods of fate who brought us together and somehow blinded her and removed her better sense to allow her to marry me :o) I tell her I love her every single day. And I do. With all my heart and soul.

Positive number 3

I have a loving, caring family (and family in-law) with whom I enjoy a wonderful relationship. They're all good fun and generally positive people. I feel sorry for those who have been unlucky enough not to be blessed with a lovely family.

Positive number 4

I'm in reasonable health... nothing has fallen off in the intervening 12 months. It's all looking slightly more work and saggy in places, but 'not too bad for my advancing years'. Last year was a tough one - hitting the big five-oh! did affect me somewhat emotionally, and I'm finding myself ever more aware of my own mortality and of those around me, but fingers crossed there's plenty of mileage in the old tyres yet!

Positive number 5

My friends and family have stayed relatively health in the last 12 months. The well-being of those I love is intensely important to me, and it's good to know they're doing well.

Positive number 6

I have no debts. WEEEEE! Not many people can say that these days. I've been debt free for some years now, but it never gets old. Long may it continue. I know it's a privilege, not a right, and I'm thankful for the lifestyle choices and general good luck that have led me here.

Positive number 7

I have fun. Every day. I wake up and thank god I'm alive. I don't excel at much, but I enjoy what I do.

Positive number 8

I have a good job which pays the bills, and which I enjoy (mostly!). I've had times when I woke up feeling sick at the thought of going to work, stressed out. panicky. Those years are long gone and having gone through them I'm able to appreciate the work I do now.

Positive number 9
I have massive opportunities in front of me to fulfill my dreams and desires. All I need to do is go out there and make them happen. 2012 is an exciting year. I will travel. I will see new things and meet new friends. I will be challenged and do scary things, and I will meet those challenges and fears head on.

Life doesn't get much better.