New Year’s Resolution – a most common tradition in which a person resolves to change an undesired trait or behavior, to accomplish a personal goal or otherwise improve his life.
I stopped making them many years ago because I just never followed through.
This year, I am reaching for two goals which I have never resolved to strive toward. 
First, I will every day do my best to reach out and offer a kindness to someone, friend or stranger.
Second, I will make more time for my close and extended family members.
What does it cost to “give kindness” to someone? It costs us maybe a minute of our time. What does it profit the receiver? Everything!
During the Christmas holidays, we heard of so many acts of kind-heartedness. Most of the reported acts involved some type of monetary contribution.
That is great if we can afford it.
I am talking about an “act of kindness,” like holding the door for the person behind you, helping someone pick up dropped items, writing and mailing a thank-you card, bringing in your neighbor’s garbage can, smiling at strangers and saying hello, giving someone a hug, returning empty carts to the store, and keeping that unpleasant, unfriendly look off your face.
None of these things cost a penny.
These things I resolve and am determined to do this year.
All through the holidays we had lots of company.
My children and grandchildren were in and out several times a day.
But I would speculate that — like me — everyone has that one person, sibling, close friend or relative that he rarely sees. No reason for the absence, just not taking the time.
My brother and sister and I have agreed to do our best to get together for lunch at least once a month just to catch up on our lives.
My husband and I and all our children and grandchildren will be entertaining at one of our houses once a month with each of us providing foods.
As a child we — my parents, brother, sister, cousins, all my aunts and uncles — gathered at my grandmother’s house for dinner at least every other month if not more.
I, like Mary, treasure and ponder those memories in my heart. I want my children and grandchildren, their cousins, aunts and uncles to share these same memories as they grow older.
There is nothing that can take the place of family, not one thing.
And there is nothing that can make you and the beneficiary of kindness feel so good.
And in today’s world of disturbances, conflicts and just a plain sense of chaotic times, we need family, friends and KINDNESS.
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I have had so much ham left over I have used it in different ways. One of our favorite recipes is macaroni and cheese with ham.
Macaroni & Cheese with Ham
1 package of elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
In a heavy pan melt ¼ stick of butter
Add one pound of Velveeta cheese cut into small chunks
½ pound of shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz of cream cheese.
Melt over low heat until smooth.
Pour over cooked noodles and mix well.
Mix in 1-2 cups of diced cooked ham, salt and pepper.
Sprinkle top with shredded cheese and melt in oven.
