Inspired by one of Gretchen Rubin's "Happier" podcasts, I made my list of "18 for 2018," which I shared in a recent post. I promised to explain my goals more thoroughly, so here I present the Minute Particulars of the first six goals on my list. Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3.

Winter slows down time. It makes simple things like walking to the garage for a red pepper from the fridge out there not quite so simple. First I have to take off the hoodie I'm wearing to stay warm while I cook so I can fit more easily into my big Chicago coat. I used to have to change shoes as well, but with my new low boots TJ gave me for Christmas, I can transition easily from house to garage and back in the same shoes. That saves a minute.