My first resolution was to jump in Lake George on New Year’s  Day. Despite the heavy snow and bone-chilling temperatures, I did it!

Why did I do it? Who knows? Maybe I took the plunge because I turned 40 in October. Maybe it was to prove something to myself. Or maybe I just needed something to write about for my New Year’s column! 

One of my favorite sayings is “All men die, but few men truly ever live.” I think I heard that line in Braveheart or one of those other motivational movies involving heroism and honor. I love those movies and enjoy learning about the people who became legendary leaders and overcame adversity. In hindsight, I wish I would have stayed in the water longer and enjoyed the experience more.

After the plunge, my wife and son took me for a steamy cup of hot chocolate and we enjoyed a great day together. My son, who is almost 4 years old, thought the whole experience was very exciting. All morning, he kept asking “Daddy, when will we be at the Polar Bear Plunge?”

Someday I look forward to taking the plunge with him and making new memories.

Resolution No. 1 – Done.

Resolution No. 2 is an issue that is more personal to me and not meant for public discussion but I can assure you I will be working on it throughout the year.

Resolution No. 3 is to focus on, and grow my spirituality. This has always been an elusive issue for me because there are so many worldly forces pulling me in different directions. With my “on the go” personality and a mind that races a mile a minute, maintaining a serene state while I reflect is quite challenging. So for 2008 I am setting time aside daily during which I will read and meditate. This will be a difficult test for me, but victory without sacrifice is meaningless.

Resolution No. 3 – In  progress.

Other than that I look forward to publishing a great local newspaper every week and meeting as many of you as possible.

Have a great year,  live life to the fullest, and enjoy every minute with your family.