Patty, you'd think new starts would be forward-looking and cheerful, but I believe it's a combination of dark days plus the end of events and ornamental lights, etc., that set people back. They see nothing to look forward to. I had a mother and grandfather in the mental health field so grew up with lots of observations about times of year to do with holidays, length of sunlight, full moons, etc. The social worker always observed that client crises happened most often at the full moon.

While skimming Instagram this morning I saw a short video about a nonprofit group of women helping women with cleaning projects called Hot Mess Express. Their slogan is "not a handout, just a hand." I see a branch in the town west of me. I'd rather volunteer there than have them over to the house, so I need to get my stuff taken care of first.

Whether we already exercise or for those who have thought about doing more, a PBS News report from January 1 might help inspire more activities at the gym, via fitness classes, or just walking. (Bonus - the Stanford doctor has a nice Scottish accent to listen to during the report). More power to the consortium of researchers, they've decided to look at exercise for both men and women. Duh. While you're at it, does anyone else see what looks like a large boulder emerging through the floor behind the doctor?

Yesterday I offered several items through the free groups and today is eBay stuff.