A new year, a new decade. I wish all of you happiness, good health, and, of course, good reading in 2020.

Many of my friends saw losses in 2019, or they’re still mourning losses of loved ones. I’m sorry. That doesn’t mean 2020 will be any easier. I’m sure many of you feel it’s just another day or another year to get through. I’m sorry. I feel it’s important to acknowledge that as we kick off another year.

And, I know many of us were troubled by politics and the state of the country in 2019. I hope we all can do better in 2020, in making our opinions known, in speaking up, in caring for others.

I also want to acknowledge what was good in 2019. I hope you all found good books to read. I hope you found some joy, with family or friends, with travel, with food, whatever makes you happy. I had trips to New York and Connecticut with family, time in Ohio with them. I went to Bouchercon in Dallas, and spent time with friends there. There were trips to New York City, St. Louis, Nashville. Travel, family, friends, books and theater bring me joy, and I celebrated all of that in 2019.

But, it’s time to move on. I hope 2020 is a year of joy for all of us. I have piles of books to kick off 2020. I have family and friends that I love. I have my cats, and one is tucked up with me while I write this piece. I already have plans for several trips this year – to Tennessee to see Byrne & Kelly in concert, to Australia with a good friend. I’m making two trips to New York City to see Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster in “The Music Man”. I know I’m fortunate in that I can travel and spend time with people I love. I’m going to appreciate the people and places in my life, and celebrate it with joy.

Joy. I can’t wish you anything better in 2020. I wish you joy.