A List for 2012

  1. Hosiery is back. Have you noticed? So far this week I've seen: patterned tights, lace tights, bejeweled tights, bright purple tights, orange tights, fishnets and even--yeah--even old-school nude pantyhose. If I ever have to go back to pantyhose, I think I will die. Purple tights, on the other hand? I could rock that.
  2. I'm a sucker for a romantic hat. I can't stop wearing this one.
  3. I wrote a book proposal. This past week, two publishing houses (very kindly and encouragingly) rejected it. Clearly, I need an agent.
  4. I wrote my first chapter to polished perfection. If I do say so myself, it rocks.
  5. My book is about my experiences growing up inside strict fundamentalism. It's a good book, I promise. I just wonder how many rejections it requires?
  6. I listened to conservative talk radio yesterday. It set my teeth on edge. I felt so betrayed. I can't figure out if I've changed or if conservatism has changed.
  7. I think maybe I'll grow a vegetable garden next year.
  8. I discovered I like reading books about animals.
  9. I saw "War Horse." I bawled through the entire thing (that's a good thing).
  10. I broke down and bought myself 2 pairs of practical, comfortable shoes. I don't know what is happening to me.
  11. I've been listening to NPR almost every day. Again. What is happening to me?
  12. I got glasses. Holy cow, I know what is happening to me. I'm turning into Tina Fey.
  13. I rarely wear my wedding ring. This does not mean I'm available. It means I have sensitive skin.
  14. My big New Year's Eve plan is to go to bed early with a glass of wine and a book of poetry. Preferably Dickinson. Or T.S. Eliot.
  15. In 2012, I will think about money every single day. Because people keep telling me I need to care about money but caring about money is very hard for me. I don't want big, fancy things. I just want more books.
  16. My word for 2012 is Misericordia. It comes from the Latin roots: miserer--to feel pity and cor---heart. It is often used in reference to the merciful, lovingkindness that comes from the heart of God. Misericordia. A very good word, indeed.
  17. I have successfully weaned myself off Diet Coke. Now I'm addicted to black tea.
  18. In 2012, I will tell my husband one thing I appreciate about him. Every day.
  19. Dunkin Donuts coffee is bitter. I won't drink that this year.
  20. Even though I'm good with words, I stink at Scrabble. And Words With Friends. What is my problem? Do I just suck at strategy? p.s. if you want to beat me at Words With Friends, my handle is "Elizabeth Esther."
  21. My favorite book of 2011 was Madeleine L' Engle's "Walking on Water." Good art IS good religion.
  22. In 2012, I will walk my dog every day.
  23. I still love long skirts.
  24. In 2011, I took 17 plane flights. I call it shock therapy. I'm still a nervous flyer but not a phobic one.
  25. In 2011, I made real-life connections with my online friends. I can now say I have some of the most lovely, wonderful friends I've ever had. Thank you, beloveds.
  26. In 2011, I came to fully believe in the unconditional love of God. That was the bestest part of all.
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