Happy New Year, everybody.

It's hard to believe that 2011 has concluded and 2012 has begun. I think that everyone gets so caught up in the day-to-day busyness that we unintentionally get overwhelmed by our routines and then the days, weeks, months and year fly by.

Since this is my new year's column, I would like to discuss the new year resolutions. A lot of people I have spoken to have chosen not to have a resolution for the new year, as they think it's a waste of time. As I go through life, I'm realizing that life's greatest luxury is time. We have to savor every second. I don't mean to philosophize, but the older one gets, the more precious time becomes.

So with keeping that in mind, this year my resolutions include:
 
1. I need to gain some weight. For the last 30-plus years I think I've only gained 2-3 pounds total. Lots of people tell me I'm too thin. I don't understand how I stay so thin, especially because of all the cookies everyone brings me here at my office.

2. I will cut down on my exercise. During the work week, I usually ride my bicycle three-to-five miles over my lunch hour. I play tennis two times a week and my wife, Katie, and I love to walk together. Maybe with less exercise I can beef up a little.
 
3. To be late for work once this year. (I hope no one from the downtown post office is reading this.) I mean, I always hear people say how they need to be more punctual, and I think I should allow myself to be less punctual so I can relate to them. I believe the last time I was late to work was in March 1993. There was a huge snowstorm and I got to work seven minutes late. This year, snowstorm or not, I am arriving eight minutes late, at least for one morning.

Whether you choose to make a resolution (or three like me), or not, I do believe we are all here for a reason. We are here to improve ourselves, our family, friends and to make life on earth better. Let's work together to make 2012 the year that we all laugh more (especially at yourself), have more fun (especially with your most favorite people) and don't let a single day of this new year pass without making someone's day. It's time to go live the best year yet.