As we roll into the new year 2013, I read a survey yesterday that 40% of us make New Year's Resolutions.  I've already broken one of mine:  I was planning on only having a drink after mens hockey games this month (a cut-back for me), but I had a few last night, so - Poof! - there goes a resolution.

That got me to thinking, besides my family and pets, which should be "givens" for all of us, what are things in my life that I'd really be bummed about if I had to do without them.  So here goes my somewhat random, ecclectic list of things I'm hooked on and can't live without (figuritively, of course.) in this coming year.  Feel free to weigh in with your "must haves."

Facebook - It's got to be the biggest time-waster in my life, but it can be entertaining at times, despite the (too) many game and event requests.  I'll take a day or two off, but always return.  Guess that qualifies as an addiction.

Hockey - The NHL lockout has left a sour taste in my mouth.  But at least I have mens league games to play and ref to look forward to each week.  And hockey, while the most fun sport to play IMO, is more than just playing or watching.  It's joking with your mates or opponents.  It's the blood, sweat and beers afterward.  The World Junior (under 20) Championships have been entertaining to watch on the NHL Network.  And while the Rivermen may be in last place currently, the high level AHL game is good hockey.

Alcohol - Providing me with the best times I'll never remember since 1976.

Music - While I'm a classic rocker by birth, I like to dabble with other genres, too.  Music from the radio helps get me through the day, picks my energy up when I'm dipping.  And I now can't imagine doing a cardio workout without listening to tunes from my I-Pod.  And under this category, I'll throw in Youtube, which has provided me with a look back at my rock n roll heroes doing my favorite all time songs and allowed me to view some bands I would never hear on the radio.

Exercise - My one saving grace, my one good habit.  I'm not saying I enjoy going to the gym each time, that'd be bull shit, but I'm able to get a sweat almost daily without hating it.  I get that not everyone can get in the habit, but to me it's just a continuation of a sporting life and active childhood.

The DVR  - Unlike the radio, this nifty piece of technology allows us to skip the commercials, which we do for every taped show.  The wife and I have mutual shows we like and watch together.  We're hooked on NCIS and NCIS, LA, The Mentalist, CSI and other shows not on CBS, like Burn Notice.  The device also allows me to watch repeats of Ancient Aliens virtually every day.

Coffee -  Been addicted to this even before booze came into my life (thanks, Mom!)  I have reduced my prodigious intake the last couple years after a health scare (still undiagnosed) landed me in the hospital a couple times during my Hippie / ESPN radio days.

The Seasons - Having just returned from a week in Florida, I'm fairly certain I'd get bored without experiencing the changes of seasons.  I love fall and spring.  Built a pool and deck to better enjoy summer.  Tolerate winter better than most thanks to my mom's Upper Peninsula genes and hockey.

I could go on.  I rarely go through a day without a Pop Tart or a microwave Stouffer's entree for lunch at the Radioplex.  And I never thought I'd be addicted to bottled water - used to scoff at my wife when she started drinking it - but I am.  My life would be less interesting without sports, especially Red Wings hockey and Michigan football.  See, I could go on, but  I'll stop now.  How about you?  What addictions are you willing to share?

Doc Watson