The new year is like a bright shiny door: I'm always keen to open it and see what's on the other side.

I hope my 2016 holds much peace, love, prosperity, good health and adventure. But in order to obtain all that, it’s going to take some focus, determination, and of course, a good dose of humour.

Here are my New Year’s resolutions for 2016.

1. I will be late more often. 

I know, not something you often see on resolution lists. 95% of the time, I’m not just on time, I’m early, circling the block or biding my time, getting over-caffeinated at the local Starbucks. People say come for dinner at 6:30 and I’m a knockin’ at 6:29.   They don’t look happy when they open the door.

In 2016, it’s time for change. Excluding things one MUST be one time for, like flights, appointments and work, I am going to try to be at least 5 minutes late. Friends, you’re welcome.

2. I will take longer to answer emails.

Last year I was repeatedly thanked for my prompt responses. It got to the point where I realized that this was being viewed as remarkable (as in “odd”) behaviour.  I could see the wheels turning: clearly she’s not busy if she can get back to me that fast. Untrue!

I’m just, well, anal. I hate a cluttered inbox.  But in order to blend in better with my fellow earthlings, I’m going to turn off the alerts on my devices and set aside specific times for correspondence. Email, you’re not the boss of me!

3. I will become more ambidextrous.

2016 is the year to “grow” some new brain cells.  I already do lots of cool stuff with my left hand, like open jars and manipulate my hair brush when drying my hair.  I’m also going to try brushing my teeth and stirring the pot (literally, not figuratively) with my left hand.  Switching things up is good for the brain. (Adventure)

4. I will always carry two poop bags when walking Ruby.

(I think the key to resolution success is peppering your more serious ambitions with ones easier to keep. Little victories lead to bigger ones!)

5. I will beef up my emergency preparedness kit.

I really do have one, although the edibles are going stale.  That said, after last week’s earthquake in Vancouver and the ensuing avalanche of press about The Big One, I do question whether I should even bother, especially after reading this article.   At least I’ll be kind of prepared if a wee disaster strikes?

6. I will moisturizer more.

Not just my face but my whole body. This is tougher than it sounds. I hate feeling sticky under my clothes which means moisturizing in the evening is best. But at night I’m sleepy!

7. I will wear more hats.

I finally understand why men wear baseball hats so often. Besides the fact that a good hat can hide a bald spot, it’s also the perfect foil for a bad hair day. Brilliant!

8. I will use my time more mindfully. 

TV, social media, Netflix –  I’ve lost hours and days of my life to what? Nothing!  I’m going back to the olden days when I spent most of my time with my nose buried in a book.  (Have you read Fates and Furies yet? Put it on your list.)

Furthermore, my friends know that in an effort to cut down on screen time, I already generally log off at about 6 or 7 at night.  Need to reach me? Call my house phone. (I’m so retro!)  This year, I’m also putting a cap on general, mindless surfing. Half hour each morning. That’s it.

9. I will expand my horizons.

My best memories of last year were ones when I tried something new. This year, more travel, more classes (photography!) and collect even more unique experiences.

2016, I’m coming for you. Happy New Year everyone!

*The photos featured are of doors in Palm Springs. I love how bright, sunny and welcoming they are.