My mom used to say, "Whatever you do on New Year's Day, you'll be doing all year long".  You may have heard something similar growing up.  As a kid, I really took that to heart. I would plan my New Year's Day with activities that I didn't mind doing all year: reading a good book mostly, and hiding in my room from my brother.  I was also secretly careful to NOT do any chores that day!

When it was my turn to be the mom, I gave this a lot of thought. I would write notes to my kids with lists of fun ways to spend their day and put them where they would find them on New Year's morning.  The other day, I found some of the notes I had written to my daughter, Katherine. She had saved them and even though some were really faded, I enjoyed reading through those lists again.

Here's one note in particular that  I found:  Dear Katherine, Happy New Year! I hope this year brings you many blessings. As you go about your day, think about what you want to do with your year. Be sure to include some things like:

• Tell someone you love them. 

• Read a good book. (Wonder where I got that idea from??)

• Run! Go outside and play!

• Eat some fruit.

• Read your Bible.

• Say a prayer.

• Sing a worship song.

• Write a letter or a thank you note.

• Play a game or read a book with the little guys. (She has 2 younger brothers).

• Be creative! Make something new-draw a picture-make up a funny song or a story.

As 2026 opens, I would encourage you to mindfully plan not just for New Year's Day, but consider how you will be spending your time every day. . Think about the things you enjoy doing and make a point to work those into your schedule. I know there are chores to do, but it's also important for us to worship, read and be creative. So, Happy New Year! Now, go play!