In a year of twists, turns, ups, downs - life is good

By GEORGI DAVIS
Published December 31, 2006

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Every year at this time, magazines, news shows and newspapers are filled with the year in review. So I decided to take a look back at 2006 and see just what I experienced in the past year.

I had resolved to keep my checkbook up to date and balance it every month. I didn't keep that resolution. I resolved to file my bills every week. That resolution also went by the wayside.

I did remember to shave my legs every other day and keep my ironing up to date. I kept my toenails and fingernails clean and tidy, and even grew my hair so that it reaches the bottom of my ear lobes. I cleaned, dusted, washed windows and swept carpets when they needed it.

I watched Charlie Crist get elected governor of the great state of Florida and saw someone with the nickname "Bugsy" elected to the Mosquito Control Board in Citrus County. I saw the Democrats take over Congress. I anxiously await the effects of these events.

I lost two great friends, but welcomed into the world two new grandchildren. I also welcomed a new sister-in-law from Vietnam who is cute as a button. I traveled up north to see my oldest granddaughter graduate from high school and go on to college and the beginning of a new life.

I saw the space shuttle take off and heard its boom when it returned safely back to earth, and I breathed a sigh of relief.

I heard President Bush gallantly continue to fight terrorism and gave thanks that we have not been hit by another terror attack in the United States.

I listened to arguments for and against illegal immigrants, abortion, and the rights of gays and lesbians. I saw the costs of prescription drugs and health care rise and then saw Wal-Mart charge $4 fees for some medications. I listened to the continuing war on Christmas and prayed that common sense would eventually take over in this country.

I watched the alligator in my pond and the birds on the water, and listened to the frogs singing in the night. I saw one egret continue to hunt for fish after having one foot eaten by the alligator. I saw wonderful sunsets and sunrises and thanked God I was still around to see them.

I was lucky enough to write two plays and laugh as senior citizens brought them to life. My heart was warmed when the audience laughed, too. I was thrilled that I could help bring laughter into the world.

I made a plane reservation to go up north, but never made the trip. I plan to use the ticket for the Easter holiday when the weather is better.

I discovered that buying underwear is not an easy task, that life is too short to sweat the small stuff and that life is what you make it. I discovered a lump in my neck that gave me many restless nights, but was relieved when it turned out to be benign. I saw a friend be diagnosed with cancer, then fight back.

We remodeled by throwing out the old carpeting and installing wood floors. I moved furniture. We gave up the Buick Regal and replaced it with a 1998 Porsche Boxster, which I am lucky enough to drive most of the time.

I buried two fish that my husband liked, but replaced them with some angels that I hope will last a long time.

We spent many fun evenings playing cards with friends, going out to dinner and attending parties. I am thankful to have friends, and I'll cherish them for as long as they are around.

I was relieved that we had no hurricanes in 2006, but was disappointed when property insurance rates went up anyway.

I have listened to news of who is going to run for the presidency in 2008 and will be tired of hearing all the rhetoric by the time the race is over.

My husband and I spent a well-deserved vacation at South Carolina's Kiawah Island, and listened to the waves as they crashed against the shore. We played golf there and at home, and I watched my golf score go up and down like a rubber ball. We watched as Ohio State beat Michigan, and we look forward to the battle against Florida. We celebrated our eighth wedding anniversary.

I had good days and bad days, disappointing days and days that made me smile and laugh. In retrospect, life is good. I bought a T-shirt in Myrtle Beach, where my sister lives, that says just that. It is pink. When I put it on, I feel "in the pink" and say to myself, Yes, life is good.

To all of you out there, I wish a very happy new year. I look forward to 2007 and hope it brings peace here and everywhere and in the hearts of all people in the world. As Charles Dickens wrote, "God bless us, every one."