Freezing Waters Around Squaw Island, Canandaigua

Since Friday is my birthday, it’s time to step back and think about what another year in the Finger Lakes might bring. My parents never did celebrate birthdays. Nor did they pay much attention to what happened in the past. As my mother taught me, “what is past is over and done with” and “don’t cry over spilt milk!” As for myself, I am looking forward to another year in the Finger Lakes.

I have already shared with you one of my New Year’s resolutions: to make the best use of the time that has been given to me – even if it means taking a nap first! In our race to keep up with our ever changing environment, we tend to wear ourselves out before we ever get started! My second New Year’s Resolution is to begin writing another book. I have already outlined the book; so much of the hard work has been done. Have you ever watched how people scan a book before they buy it? Some look only at the covers, some look at the table of contents or read the reviews, others flip through the pages. As for myself, I start on the last page first to see if there is anything interesting in the conclusion section!

The New Year in the Finger Lakes and everywhere else will be reveled to us one day at a time – just like reading a book. And as the New Year unfolds, each page will bring new adventures and challenges. But one thing is for certain, you can only go forward one day at a time. Last year can never be revisited or relived, it can only be remembered. And don't even try to page forward to read about the future. It can't be done. Best wishes to all!

James R. Bupp