The Lights and Decorations Go To Sleep for 2026. Do You?

We all, admittedly or not make resolutions for the new year. Blank slate, new chances, as if we can just bid adieu to 2025. But think about it. Who other than you will enforce it?

I was curious about others in my sphere – friends, family, and even a grocery clerk who ended up being the most vocal about it – I think because I simply asked. My question: what are your expectations and hopes for the new year? 

The answers were at once interesting and hilarious. Here are examples. 

• I want to visit more museums. They are right here.
• I want to read more nonfiction books. I’m too old for drama.
• I’d like to walk my dog and without rushing, let him do his business which is none of mine.
• I need to see more beach sunrises and sets. Isn’t that why we moved here?
• I want to ride my e-bike without assistance. I learned how to ride a bike long before my kids did.
• I’d like to learn what’s so fascinating about mahjong.
• I need to learn something new, like a language or how to make chicken stock.
• My garage needs attention.
• I will support local charities instead of buying pretty blouses that I never wear.
• I need to cut out sugar. And get over my body image.
• I will say no to events I’d normally say yes to out of obligation.
• Clean out my closets.
• I will try to keep my mouth shut when another person is talking, even though they’re wrong.
• I’ll convince my grandchildren that Velveeta is harmless, and none of us died from it so far.
• I will consume more green olive oil. I’m told it solves all problems.
• I want to learn how to iron my shirts properly.
• I will try out for a play, and I want to learn how to ride a horse.
• I want to run the flag out at the beginning of an Eagles home game.
• I will say hello and thank you to even the most miserable people.
• I will start Christmas shopping in June, now that I am on a fixed budget.

Do any of these resonate or identify you in 2026? I’m guessing probably. And somewhere in this collection is one of my own. It’s January, and a great time to hit reset. What may have made us miserable last year might just be the opportunity to make us optimistic in 2026.

Happy New Resolution Year.

By Bridget Fitzpatrick

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