"The world is so great and rich, and life so full of variety, that you can never lack occasions for poems." ~ J.W. Goethe As you cross the threshold into 2012, write a poem that captures all that you hope for in the year to come.

Well, is a limerick considered a poem? I was never good at capturing the abstract quality of poems. I much prefer the in-your-face playfulness of limericks. So here's mine for 2012:

Thoughts on 2012

Twenty twelve's a new year,
I start with a clean slate.
But I've got lots of plans
That will fill up my plate.

More creativity,
Less mundane chores.
Seize opportunities,
Open closed doors.

Dote on the baby,
Be a better friend.
See all my projects
Through till the end.

Read lots of books,
Write in my daily blog.
Record the emotions
That memories jog.

Strengthen my body,
Pedal miles on my bike.
Continue dance lessons,
And go take a hike.

Declutter, simplify,
Recycle, reuse.
Weed out the people
Who shorten my fuse!

Volunteer, donate,
Give to charity.
Add several more branches
To my family tree.

Eat less processed sugars,
More veggies and fruits.
Cover the gray
That appears at my roots.

Stifle the critic
That lives in my head.
Express gratitude
For my blessings instead.

Plan to retire,
Leave working behind.
It's fun to daydream
As I keep up the grind.

Who am I kidding?
This list causes strife.
My New Year's resolution?
To enjoy my good life!