Happy New Year!

I recently saw a meme that read “Happy 2020too.” We so eagerly toasted the end of 2020, yet 2021 ushered in more pandemic-related restrictions, and for many of us, more loss. As we start 2022, we hope that you, like us, are finding reasons to be grateful.

First and foremost, the lingering impact of the pandemic has reminded us not to take for granted the time we have with friends and loved ones. For anyone having a tough day, and there have been many of those lately, the well-timed card, phone call or (when lucky enough) hug, can be transformational.

As we start 2022, we encourage you to write down the names of 5 friends, family members, or long-lost acquaintances, then add reminders to your calendar to touch base with each of them before the end of January. You’ll not only feel good yourself when you do this, but also it’s possible that you’ll turn a lousy day into a pretty good one for the person on the receiving end of the call. And who knows, maybe that person will turn around and make your day at a future moment when you need a boost.

Staying connected to the people we care about has certainly been a challenge during these isolating times, but a little effort can go a long way. Wishing you lots of friendship and happy moments in 2022!

Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.

Marcel Proust