Most holiday celebrations include various home made pies. Those who can afford the calories or choose to throw caution to the wind may opt for the traditional pumpkin, chocolate, coconut cream, banana cream, pecan, … you know the list. This year Megan made a cranberry/lemon meringue pie. The picture does not do it justice, it is a beautiful red pie with a fluffy whipped topping. The pie  is remarkably good. The recipe  is from the New York Times. Try this unusual pie for a change.
 
Speaking of change, it is the season for each of us to assess our goals for the coming year. I would be so pleased if I never saw another picture or heard another word about Donald Trump. That won’t happen until we finally  “ lock him up.” I would also be thankful for never seeing or hearing about the Emu. I can honestly say, I refuse to buy insurance from that company. We switched to YouTube TV this year, it was a value compared to our previous carrier.  Fewer ads, with Zen moments that put you in nature for up to two minutes. The ads that do play offer no diversity, the obnoxious Below Decks ad, cold case murder mysteries promotions…..Inmay have to quit watching television. These are frivolous, I need meaningful resolutions.
 
I am not going to  drink alcohol any more. As W. C. Fields quipped, “I won’t  drink any less either.” I could lose a few pounds, free climb El Capitan, learn to play the piano, take up lap swimming, break 80 at golf, invest more time in the community, work on a legacy project….a daunting list that assures failure at most or all of the list.  I seldom make a list for those very reasons, more pressure is not needed in today’s  complex world.

I have relearned through the eyes of Grandpa Bob the value of friendship. Bob always lets us know how meaningful each interaction is to him. He calls and he actually still writes a note or sends a card. Bob’s health is failing him a bit at 96 but his spirit and attitude are inspirational.  The world lost a great person this year. Eldon Crockett, of the Preston Idaho Crocketts, was a  business associate and friend.  We stayed in touch but his passing reminded me that I wish I had been a better friend. My one resolution is to do my best this year to get in touch and stay in touch with those who have made a difference in my life. That list is very long.

The Mohawk Tribe had a saying that is a great reminder for all of us, “A good chief gives, he does not take.”  Let’s demand that character trait from our elected officials.

I wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.  Mike