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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v10n02)
Right in my Own Backyard - 13 Starters for 2013 - by Brandt Carter
posted: Jan. 20, 2013

Right in my Own Backyard header

13 Starters for 2013

List making is one of my compulsions. Go to the grocery-make a list; get ready for the work week-make a list; entertain-make a list; go on a trip-make a list. I think making a list instead of New Year's resolutions works for me.
So I launched into this new year by making my list for 2013. It enumerates good TIPS (To Improve Personal Satisfaction in the year ahead). You might want to try one or two of the ideas or even make your own list.
  1. Write notes. People enjoy being remembered the old fashioned way; don't rely simply on e-mail. It's easier to tuck a written note in a book or drawer so it can be reread months or years later. Have you sent a thank you for any gifts received this holiday season? How about just a note for the sake of a note to a family member or friend to recall a golden moment or express warm regards?
  2. Take time to share a story or let conversation include listening to a story, stories enrich our lives.
  3. Try something new in the January. . . a new restaurant, a new book, movie or play.
  4. Support local retailers. Aim to buy local each week and tell a friend where you shop.
  5. Visit one Indianapolis landmark this month. We do have gems here in the city.
  6. Deliver a flower or sweets to a neighbor.
  7. Clean out a drawer or closet. Send the leftovers to Goodwill.
  8. If you feed the birds, add a peanut feeder to your yard. Birds love the shelled peanuts and stay at the feeder longer to pull out a morsel. Don't forget heated birdbaths on these frigid days.
  9. Turn the tables and thank your boss for your paycheck. They like to know you appreciate your job.
  10. Read the history of Broad Ripple so you understand our community forefathers and your roots. www.broadripplehistory.com/ or polis.iupui.edu/RUC/Neighborhoods/BroadRipple/BRNarrative.htm (We will also reprint this in an upcoming Gazette series)
  11. Send a Broad Ripple Gazette to a friend who has moved away. They will enjoy seeing what's up.
  12. Celebrate! Take note of as many holidays as you can. Make them a special occasion by creating appropriate menus, decorations, gifts, and traditions.
  13. Wish as many people a "Happy New Year" as you can . . . even until the end of the month.
After you read these TIPS, you can surmise that keeping positive thoughts and actions punctuate this new year with fulfilling moments. If you can keep the momentum going past January, I bet your year will reach new levels of personal satisfaction. In addition, if you make your own list, share it with someone. Encourage a friend or your family to make a list too. Happy New Year! Here's to Lists!



Brandt Carter, artist, herbalist, and naturalist, owns Backyard Birds at 2374 E. 54th Street. Visit her web site www.feedbackyardbirds.com. Email your bird questions to Brandt@BroadRippleGazette.com




brandt@broadripplegazette.com
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