2009 will be a good year

There’s something special about a new calendar. The new year offers us all a clean slate and this year, more than any in recent memory, we need a fresh start. We need to forget our governor is accused of conduct that would make Lincoln roll over in his grave, as the U.S. attorney described it. We need to move past the daily barrage of news about how bad the economy is going to get for all of us. We need to muster all of our optimism and prove the prognosticators wrong, collectively willing 2009 to be a good year.

Many of us started early in 2008 making small changes in how we live our lives, building in more quality time with our kids doing things that don’t cost a thing, while figuring out how to do more with less in all other aspects of our parenting. It’s not always easy or popular to change—even a simple change in peanut butter might bring a thumbs down from pint-sized food critics. But change is inevitable, especially in a recession.

We intentionally filled this month’s issue with ideas you can use to help get 2009 off to a great fresh start. Busy moms will find tips on ways to sneak in exercise without expensive gym memberships. Families will find tips for organizing the kids sentimental items and ideas for getting the kids to do their chores without too much of a fuss. Parents will find ideas for cultivating gratitude in their kids for what they do have, not what they think they want. Former Healthy Finances columnist Susan Beacham also felt compelled to return with a column this month to help families organize their financial house. In a special guest appearance, she offers money savvy tips that will save you money this year.

When I opened my new calendar and started to pencil in meetings, dance lessons and dentist appointments, I really started to feel optimistic—and excited—about this year. I hope you will, too.

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