Well, the new year's season is past, as is my last vacation before the big one in October--the Discovery Collection cruise. The countdown clock installed on my computer says it's 8 months and 3 days to departure. Not that I'm looking forward to this or anything.

I've never been a new year's resolution type, but I find myself making some resolutions for the DC. I don't know if you can identify with any of these, but here goes.

1. Stay away from unidentified pink beverages (cosmos don't count--they're identified). In fact, stay away from ALL unidentified beverages. Learned that one the hard way on No Name.

2. Do not for a moment lose a sense of joy and amazement that I am getting to do something like this.

3. Keep the spending under control, but don't cut out things I'll later regret not having done.

4. Never take for granted the hard work and graciousness of the crew.

5. Be considerate of my suite-mate. Shouldn't be too hard when it's a good egg like Beth.

6. Actually, be considerate of all fellow passengers, staff and people at our stops.

7. Kick back and relax. I'll be half a planet away from my daily stresses, so leave them behind.

8. At the same time, keep in touch with family and friends.

9. Eat dessert only when the gooey/yummy factor makes it worth the calories.

10. Moderation in food and drink (probably the toughest item on this list).

11. Get some exercise every day, even on sea days.

11. Whup butt at Trivia.

12. Learn some dances.

13. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.