"There is nothing permanent except change." - Heraclitus

I tend to become philosophical at the end of one year and the beginning of the next. I make my new year resolutions and allow the media to heighten my anxiety be recapping all of the year's tragedies, as they remind us of all the celebrities that have moved on to a place beyond. We are saddened by the finality of mortality and contemplate changes in our own lives during the year, vowing to do better in the next. It makes sense to make plans for a better tomorrow and dream of future adventures and accomplishments. But wouldn't it be advantageous to treat January 1st as just another day? We do not have to confront the burden of life's uncertainty all in one night. Change happens, unexpectedly, and perhaps the best new year resolution is a vow to face our challenges with courage and grace.

Which brings me to the story of the tree. In 2012 I moved my dental office to a house on a main road In Oak Ridge, NJ. A notable landmark on the property was a very large tree that towered over the building. My husband thought the tree could be over 100 years old, and my daughter said it was scary. I assumed the tree would be there for another hundred years and would long outlast me. But quite expectantly, the tree began to shed small branches, and one section did not have leaves this last season. I hoped it could be trimmed, but the prognosis was not good - the tree guy recommended it be removed. His company sent six men and two large trucks with equipment. It was a big job, since it had to be dismantled piece by piece, and it took all day ... an unexpected challenge. and expense. It was a small reminder of how impossible it is to predict the twists and turns we are destined to experience.

And we all move on, wondering what challenges lie ahead, what we will be able to accomplish, and what we can do to better our lives and the lives of those around us. May all of your challenges in the new year be ones you can confront, may you achieve your goals, fulfill your dreams, and have a year filled with laughter and happiness.

Best Wishes for 2026

Changes It was a sad goodbye, but a smart move because of the windy conditions we experienced this fall. That was one gigantic tree!

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"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." - Alan Watts

Be well, be happy, and have a happy new year - Joanne