I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To™ . . . Read More Books! - Day 31

Reading is one of my favorite pastimes.  Alas, it is a pastime that has taken a backseat in recent years, thanks to my writing and photography projects, IResolveTo.Com, my business, and a myriad of other daily responsibilities and activities.  There is only so much you can cram into one 24-hour day and I am well aware of my limitations and the threat of burnout.  So, I am not going to set an unrealistic reading resolution that calls for more books than I can possibly finish in 2009 (I already have stacks of un-read magazines that are on my 'To Do List').  Instead I will make a realistic promise to increase my reading by a reasonable number of books.  In 2008 I read a half dozen books for pleasure (I read an endless amount of news and non-fiction stories on-line, in magazines, as well as books for work, but far fewer recreational books).  It's time to spice up my routine.  In 2009 I plan to double my 2008 rate of recreational reading.

I intend to 'Read A Good Book', (finishing at least one each month), as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com.  Resolve365 in 2009.

In January I finished reading Michael Crichton's, NEXT and I am currently reading a book about happiness, 'Happiness - The Science Behind Your Smile', written by Daniel Nettle and published in 2006 by Oxford Press (and reviewed on Amazon.Com by  the Scientific American).  I think it is time to go through my book stacks and choose some priorities for the rest of the year.  Ernest Hemingway is among my favorite authors, maybe it is time to pull one of his gems off the shelves.  I am also due for a trip to Borders and I plan to visit my sister's wonderful book blog, A Work In Progress, for some fresh ideas.  A staffer at a University Library, my sister provides wonderful news and reviews about books, along with 'reading list' ideas (similar to my effort to watch all 80 Academy Award-winning 'Best Picture' category films during the past year). 

As I plot my reading course, I plan to keep in mind that one of the most effective ways to achieve a resolution is to make a decision to 'go for it', define specifically what you want to do, develop a plan, and 'do it daily'.  With that in mind I intend to prioritize my 2009 reading (in a realistic way) and make a point to read every night before bed, which is my favorite time of day to curl up with a good book!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 31, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Friday Night, Movie Night! - Day 30

Thank goodness it's Friday!  How often have you said that?  The end of the week is such a wonderful opportunity to take a deep breath and relax just a bit.  How about making Friday night, movie night?  One of my favorite ways to relax is with a good movie.  I rent them, buy them, and watch them on television and cable television, almost every day.  To say that I am a movie buff is an understatement.  On my last birthday, in April of 2008, I made a resolution ("Yes" I make resolutions on birthdays, the start of Spring, and throughout the year) to watch, or re-watch, all 80 of the Academy Award-winning movies.  Nine months later I am happy to say I have worked my way through almost the entire list.  Just eight films remain unchecked on the list and I intend to watch them in February.  I plan to finish the list by the time the Academy Awards rolls around on February 22nd.  I definitely will be watching, it's an annual treat.  Maybe I will work my way through the winning screenplays next!

With that in mind, I intend to continue my habit of 'Watching Movies', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Watching a movie at the theater on the 'big screen' is wonderful, for full impact of the movie and immediacy of a new release.  I would go broke, however, if I fully satisfied my desire to watch movies strictly in a theater.  Instead, I have developed a more cost-effective approach.  When I started my quest to watch all the Academy Award-winning movies in the 'Best Picture' category, I enrolled in Blockbuster's 'rent-by-mail' program.  I have had a wonderful experience because the movies are shipped quickly, arrive quickly, flawed disks are replaced immediately, and for every five movies that I rent by mail I can rent five for free at the store.  My monthly dues are about $20.00, which is what I spend on one movie ticket, popcorn and other treats at the theater.  If you're interested in this approach, Netflix is another popular rental service.  It is worth doing some homework to find a reliable service that meets your budget and interests.

My taste in movies is very broad:  anything from drama, to comedy, horror, science fiction, documentary, and just about everything in between. The one benefit of making a resolution to watch all 80 Academy Award-winning movies was that it introduced me to movies I would not otherwise have watched.  I enjoyed most of the award winners immensely.  Of course there were a few that I could barely watch from beginning-to-end (some of the early films), but my movie resolution was by-and-large a huge success.  Here are 25 movies from the list that I had not seen (or wanted to see  again-and-again).  I really enjoyed these picks and depending on your taste in movies, they are well worth a look (they are listed in order of year made and not by preference/rank; I enjoyed all of the movies listed):

1. Million Dollar Baby (2004)
2. Gladiator (2000)
3. Titanic (1997)
4. The English Patient (1996)
5. Braveheart (1995)
6. Shindlers List (1993)
7. Dances With Wolves (1990)
8. Driving Miss Daisy (1989)
9. Rainmain (1988)
10. The Godfather (1972)
11. The Sound Of Music (1965)
12. My Fair Lady (1964)
13. West Side Story (1961)
14. The Apartment (1960)
15. Ben Hur (1959)
16. Marty (1955)
17. From Here To Eternity (1953)
18. The Greatest Show On Earth (1952)
19. An American In Paris (1951)
20. All The Kings Men (1949)
21. The Best Years Of Our Lives (1946)
22. Casablanca (1943)
23. Mrs. Miniver (1942)
24. The Great Ziegfield (1936)
25. Rebecca (1940)

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 30, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Save Money & The Environment, Brown Bag It - Day 29

Do you buy your lunch every day?  If you are looking for ways to trim spending and save a few bucks, packing a lunch at home and investing in a travel mug to transport home-made coffee are two easy cost-cutting strategies.  Last year, on most Thursdays, I bought lunch while working on-site with clients.  Each time, I spent an average $10.00 for lunch and often purchased gourmet coffee as well for an additional $5.00.  This year I'm brown-bagging a healthy lunch on Thursdays and enjoying my coffee in a nifty travel mug.  I'm saving $500-600, depending on how you calculate the costs (and considering that I do buy lunch goodies at the grocery store, but at a fraction of the cost of eating-out).  I still buy gourmet coffee occasionally, but not weekly.  Bottom-line:  When you really scrutinize 'how' you are spending your hard-earned money, there are plenty of ways to improve!

I intend to Pack My Lunch As A Way To Save Money And The Environment, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009.

Let me give you five solid reasons why bringing your lunch is a good, healthy habit to build into your daily routine, and a great way to multi-task toward achievement:

1. If you pack a small re-usable cooler and avoid fast food restaurants during your lunch break you can reduce your Carbon Footprint by eliminating food wrapper waste!
2. If you spend 10-minutes in the morning bagging your lunch you can reduce stress.  Instead of spending half your lunch break waiting in line for food, you can grab your lunch, a good book and a bench in your favorite park, and in turn, enjoy a nice calm, relaxing break.
3. If you do a little planning before your grocery shopping, you can purchase the kind of healthy, wholesome food - including fruits and and vegetables - that will enable you to shave inches off your waist and thighs, and pounds off your figure, particularly if you combine healthy eating habits with a good brisk walk to and from your lunchtime venue!
4. If you are reducing stress, cutting unwanted pounds, lowering your blood pressure, increasing your exercise and relaxation - you stand to improve your overall health and happiness - and do it by just making one small change that takes 10-minutes in the morning (or the night before): packing your lunch!
5. If you are spending less money on daily fast food, you are putting more money into your own pocket (and perhaps even your savings account).  Consider this:  If you spend $10.00 each day for fast food and coffee, and instead purchase food and drinks for $5.00 that you will brown-bag, you will save $50 each week, and an incredible $2,450 in a 49-week work-year!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 29, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Take Daily Steps To Protect The Environment! - Day 28

Protecting the environment is one of my priorities, so I intend to 'Use Canvas Not Plastic', as part of my I Resolve To . . .  Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson - January 28, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson - January 28, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Be Optimistic! - Day 27

In an effort to be positive, I intend to 'View The Glass As Half Full', as part of my I Resolve To . . .  Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson - January 27, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson - January 27, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Being On Time A Priority! - Day 26

It's a great way to reduce stress, be efficient and make a good impression, so I intend to 'Be On Time', as part of my I Resolve To . . .  Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson -January 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution By Visiting The I Resolve To . . . Shop At CafePress:  I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista Gear And By Joining The Official I Resolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.

Kim M. Simpson -January 26, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Write Things Down In My Journal! - Day 25

I love to write.  It is a passion, pure and simple.  Some people carry books with them everywhere they go.  My younger sister, for instance, is a book lover who reads voraciously and shares her knowledge on her wonderful blog:  A Work In Progress.  I love to read, but my twin passions are writing and photography.  I carry notebooks everywhere I go, write in journals like the one pictured above and blog on-line.  I write every single day.  For me, writing and making photographs is as important as breathing oxygen.  I would be lost and un-fulfilled, in a barren joyless desert, if I could not create.  Writing, both in my personal and professional life, enables me to 'do what I love and love what I do'.  I firmly believe each one of us should cultivate a passion.  When you have a passion that you adore, you don't chase happiness - happiness, joy, reward, and fulfillment are natural by-products of your activities. 

With that in mind, I intend to continue my habit of journaling every day - on-line, in my spiral notebooks, and in my fancy journals (a writer's delight) - as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

I've been stringing words together creatively since I was a youngster - working first on my junior high and high school newspapers; then, after college, writing as a professional, television political reporter.  When I made the transition from  journalism to politics, I worried that I would not be as fulfilled and maybe even lose my 'identity'.  My worries were unfounded.  I managed to find a way to express myself via the written word in my jobs and through poetry, creative writing and journaling (Yes, my first bad novel is locked away safely).  I have continued throughout my life to 'do what I love and love what I do'. 

The birth of blogging, not so long ago, was a gift from heaven to me.  I started my first blog in 2005 - ACreativeLife.Com:  Words And Pictures, Pictures And Words, A Creative Life Does Make.  My one-month anniversary post on January 31, 2005 so clearly describes my joy of writing and journaling, whether in a notebook or on a computer.  It also shows the importance of identifying dreams, taking daily action to make them a reality, and keeping a written record.  Here is the post that I wrote four years ago - I've come a long way and I'm still living those dreams:

"Happy Anniversary! One month ago I started this blog and my New Year resolution project (to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day; and write a book about how to achieve New Year Resolutions).  The basic goals I listed one month ago included:

1. Write more frequently in an organized way.
2. Connect with my friends more frequently.
3. Achieve my New Year's Resolutions (which I faithfully make, and do keep).
4. Show more of my photography.

The good news is I've achieved all four goals, so far.  Even better, coming here everyday has also helped me to focus on some larger goals.  I've always written things down: goals,work and personal lists, New Year resolutions, etc.  For many years I have kept a daily journal - pen to paper - which helps to keep me focused on today, and thinking forward toward tomorrow.  Bottom line, this blog has been a success for me personally.  What I need to do next is review the past month's activities, take stock and start planning for February and March.

All activities that I'll take up tomorrow, as it's getting late and I need to do 30 minutes of stretching and light Yoga (I did a heavy work out yesterday).  Better 'get to it'!"

As I ponder this post that I wrote four years ago, my message to you today is:  Follow your own passions wherever they may lead you and write things down in your own way, in your own voice.  Write from the heart, capture the highlights, life's experiences large and small - happy, sad, and everything in between - so that you can look back and forward on the wonderful journey that is your life!   

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 25, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

"Happy Anniversary! One month ago I started this blog and my New Year resolution project (to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day; and write a book about how to achieve New Year Resolutions).  The basic goals I listed one month ago included:

1. Write more frequently in an organized way.
2. Connect with my friends more frequently.
3. Achieve my New Year's Resolutions (which I faithfully make, and do keep).
4. Show more of my photography.

The good news is I've achieved all four goals, so far.  Even better, coming here everyday has also helped me to focus on some larger goals.  I've always written things down: goals,work and personal lists, New Year resolutions, etc.  For many years I have kept a daily journal - pen to paper - which helps to keep me focused on today, and thinking forward toward tomorrow.  Bottom line, this blog has been a success for me personally.  What I need to do next is review the past month's activities, take stock and start planning for February and March.

All activities that I'll take up tomorrow, as it's getting late and I need to do 30 minutes of stretching and light Yoga (I did a heavy work out yesterday).  Better 'get to it'!"

As I ponder this post that I wrote four years ago, my message to you today is:  Follow your own passions wherever they may lead you and write things down in your own way, in your own voice.  Write from the heart, capture the highlights, life's experiences large and small - happy, sad, and everything in between - so that you can look back and forward on the wonderful journey that is your life!   

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 25, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Build Serenity Into My Life! - Day 24

Zen.  The word itself can be confusing because it has several meanings, one of which is meditation.  Often it is short for Zen Buddhism (Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, according to Wikipedia).  For purposes of my post today, I'm writing about Zen Rock Gardens that can fit on a desk like the minature pictured above, or actual outdoor Japanese Rock Gardens - both provide a wonderful sources of calmness and serenity.  A number of years ago I purchased the Zen Garden pictured above to help incorporate meditation into my work day.  Granted you don't need a garden like this to meditate - you can meditate anywhere, anytime - but I found that my little Zen Garden was such a wonderful way to carve out a few minutes of serenity here and there that I decided start using it, again, in my meditation practice.

With that in mind, I intend to make a dedicated effort to use the 'Zen Garden' that I made, each day, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

My Zen Garden has resumed its once prominent place on my office desk.  One of my daily goals is to mediate for 10-15-minutes, and to do light Yoga and stretching.  I find that all three activities really help me to reduce stress, calm my mind, and experience 'A-Ha' moments - or enlightenment-  a purpose of Zen.  I encourage you to give it a try . . . Creating a Zen Garden from a pre-made kit, or from scratch from goods purchased at a hobby shop, is easy and inexpensive (a quick on-line perusal showed a variety of kits in the$10.00 to $40.00 range).

If you'd like to learn more about miniature, or full sized Zen Rock Gardens, here are links to some interesting websites and articles:

• Learn.Bowdoin.Edu - Japanese Gardens
• WikiPedia.Org - Japanese Rock Gardens
• Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens - Washington, DC
• EHow.Com - How To Make A Mini Zen Garden - Gift Idea
• About.Com - What Are 'Alpine Rock Gardens' And 'Japanese Zen Rock Gardens'?

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 24, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Build A Savings Plan & Implement! - Day 23

Around the world people are living through one of the most serious economic downturns since the Great Depression . . . a downturn that is forcing both mighty corporations and the average citizen to do serious 'belt-tightening'.  Personally, I don't consider myself to be an extravagant spender and I do save.   Most of my extra money goes into my business, my home, and my passions (writing, photography, various causes that I support, and so on).  That said, there is plenty of room for improvement, so I am reviewing 'everything' with an extremely keen eye during my annual preparations for tax season.  I am applying a magnifying glass to my budget, the money that comes in and how I spend it, so I can improve my personal and business financial habits for the long-haul:  Mainly, cut expenses, pay down debt, so that I can save more money.

I intend to make a dedicated effort to 'Save', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

During these uncertain economic times, I am well aware that I might not be able to save as much I would like - health care costs are soaring and earnings are spread thinner and thinner - but that doesn't mean that I can't improve the way I use my hard earned dollars.  I am not a financial planner, or an expert, by any means.  I want to state that up front.  I do, however, regularly take the time and initiative to  educate myself about planning for my financial present and future.  Here are 15 common sense steps that I am taking, right now, to reduce spending, so that I can maintain or expand my savings and retirement accounts little-by-little, over time:

1. Review earning and spending and create a new budget with an eye to cost-cutting:  I try to do this annually when I begin preparing for tax season at the end of the calendar year.
2. Keep track of - write down - what I am spending, so I can improve my spending and saving habits.
3. Review my savings and retirement savings plans, maintain what I am currently saving and gradually increase savings, as I improve finances and lower debt.
4. Pay myself first:  Adopt automatic monthly, or quarterly, 'deposits' to retirement savings and savings account.
5. Pay cash:   "No cash, no buy".
6. Shift higher interest-rate credit card debt to 'zero-interest' or lower interest-rate cards (there a are good deals to be had by doing research).
7. Pay off debt, starting with the smallest balance first.
8. Pack a lunch and reduce trips to the gourmet coffee store (which is actually more fun because I really do appreciate the 'treats', when they are actually treats and not routine purchases).
9. Rent a movie rather than hitting the theater.
10. Look for 'free' entertainment opportunities:  Perhaps a nature hike, a 'board game' evening with friends, or a road trip to nearby scenic/historic points of interest.
11. Drive less and walk more:  Less gas is good for the environment and the pocket book.
12. Search on-line and in the newspaper for sales:  Items that are needed and not shopping for the sake of buying 'stuff' because it is fun and feels good.
13. Handle more chores and repairs around the house, rather than 'hiring out' (the chores that are within my base knowledge and expertise - I'm not an electrician, for instance best to leave wiring to a licensed expert!).
14. Stop buying un-needed stuff:  Before buying anything new, really ask myself, "Do I need this?".

15. Cut coupons & actually use them (stowing 'out of sight' where they are forgotten will not save a dime).

I have also found and used a wealth of websites and articles for budgeting and saving. Here are a few that offer some great common sense tips:

• WikiHow.Com - How To Save Money
• About.Com - Make Saving Automatic
• SuzeOrman.Com Financial Tips, Books
• Wiki-How - How To Budget Your Money
• MSN Money - 5-Minute Guide To Budgeting
• WikiHow.Com - How To Save Money On Gas
• MSN Money - How To Build Your First Budget
• Kiplinger.Com - Save Money On Practically Everything
• Businessweek.Com - Twenty-Five Ways To Save More Each Month
• CNNMoney.Com - Money 101, A Step By Step Guide To Gaining Control Of Your Financial Life

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 23, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Remember My Daily Vitamins! - Day 22

Did you take your multivitamin today?  Some days I'm good and I remember, other days I forget, so I intend to make a dedicated effort to 'Take My Daily Vitamins', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

One of the things I am doing to improve my track record with vitamins is to write down what I am taking every day.  I already track my daily exercise on my calendar.  Since 2005, when I did a one-year mini-case study on my resolution to exercise for 30-minutes daily, I've been tracking exercise on my wall calendar with foil stars and happy faces.  I also tracked my case study on my first blog:  ACreativeLife - and I'm happy to say that I showed up on my blog every day and exercised more than 80% of the days that year.  Writing things down truly does help to keep you accountable, and generates positive forward momentum, when you're working hard to achieve dreams, resolutions and goals.

In this case, I am tracking my vitamins.   In addition to my multivitamin, I'm being careful to take a Vitamin D supplement, B Complex, and chocolate calcium chews (added incentive to take my vitamins since I love chocolate).  My doctor has been testing Vitamin D levels in my blood and it's a bit low, so I'm trying to get a little more sunshine along with the supplements.  While Vitamin D is found in a variety of foods, like fortified milk, sunlight is a major source of Vitamin D.  That's another good reason to get outside for fresh air, moderate sunshine, and exercise via walking, biking, swimming, gardening, or your sport of choice - there are so many different options! 

Since I'm a chocolate lover I also try to keep things interesting with my favorite vitamin-laced power bars (chocolate, of course), smoothies with Whey protein powder, and other supplements like Omega-3 Fish Oil, and Flax Seed Oil.  I'm trying to come up with a healthy mix of vitamin supplements that is simple, and contributes to a healthy diet each day, but doesn't replace fruits, vegetables and other foods that should be providing most of my vitamins and nutrition.  As always, knowledge is power when you're working to achieve a resolution, or daily goal.  I did my homework and found an assortment of cedible information that helped me to create a 'vitamin-mix' that works for me via advice from my doctor, books, and articles from credible medical sources.  Here are some websites and articles that I find to be useful: 

• Wikipedia - Vitamin
• MayoClinic.Com - Vitamin D:  How Much Do I Need?
• MedicineNet.Com - Vitamin And Calcium Supplements
• About.Com - Choosing High Quality Vitamin Supplements
• MayoClinic.Com - Nutrition Supplements:  Nutrition In A Pill?
• Guardian.Co.UK - Vitamin D Supplements Linked To Reduced Risk Of Dying
• Harvard School Of Public Health - The Bottom Line:  A Daily Multi-Vitamin Is A Great Nutrition Insurance Policy

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 22, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Hydrate! - Day 21

Water.   You have to drink it to stay alive.  But how much is enough, or too much?  I'm the first to admit that I really have to work at drinking water.  I don't drink much soda, but I love coffee, and I have aquired a taste for water and a daily 'water habit'.  I'm careful to hydrate during daily exercise, hot spells, walking-marathons, and so on, so that I don't dehydrate.  It's the rest of the time that I scratch my head a bit.  I get busy and the question of how much water I've I consumed pops up, and I have to calculate whether I've had enough.  It must be enough because I'm rarely thirsty and never dehydrated. 

With that in mind, I intend to 'Drink Plenty Of Water', and really pay attention to what I'm consuming during the day, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

In an effort to educate myself, I've read a wide array of articles and studies that talk about how much water a person should drink.  I also talk to my doctor about things like this, as she typically is current on a very wide array of medical news and provides wonderful advice.  I must admit, I like the advice that some doctors and experts are now giving that simply urges folks to drink when thirsty, but other experts say that if you're thirsty you may already be slightly dehydrated. 

I grew up hearing that I should drink around eight glasses of water each day, and have heard a wide array of other 'recommended daily amounts' over the years, and it all seems to come down to good, old-fashioned, common sense; at least for me.  I sip water throughout the day, drink coffee and juices, and get water in the foods that I eat.  I'm careful to drink more water when I'm exercising. All in all, I probably come close to six-to-eight glasses of water already, but it doesn't hurt to be keep track of my daily water habit to be sure.  I've never been dehydrated that I'm aware of, but I do feel better when I'm 'well-watered', more awake and alert, for instance.  For expert views on this important issue, and how to calculate what is right for you, here are some websites and articles that I find to be interesting and useful:

• WikiHow - How To Drink More Water Every Day
• About.Com - Are You Drinking Enough Water? Quiz
• About.Com - Drinking Water To Maintain Good Health
• MayoClinic.Com - How Much Water Should You Drink Every Day?
• CNNHealth.Com - Water Is Vital, but how much should you drink?

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 21, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Appreciate My Country, My Freedom - Day 20

The sun shone brightly today on the millions who turned out to witness the inauguration of America's 44th President, Barack Obama.  The logistics weren't perfect for the record-setting crowd on the Washington, D.C. Mall, but peace and joy reigned.  I am proud to live in a country where peace is the word of the day during the massive transfer of power and personnel from one Presidential Administration to the next.  While I am not proud of parts of my country's history, and I don't always agree with everything that is said and done in Washington, I would not trade the United States, the rights and freedoms that it offers, or its people, for any alternative on this planet.  America is not perfect, but I am proud of the good that it stands for, the good that it can do, and the leadership that it can provide.  Above all, I am grateful for the courage that has been shown by the heroes that came before us and the heroes of the future that, for now, are only a silhouette on a distant horizon.

The new President faces challenges of daunting proportions:  A sick and withering world economy;  war, and un-settled problems in the Middle East;  soaring health care costs and millions who are forced to go without health care altogether, to name just a few of America's challenges.  For so many people, this President provides hope that these problems will be erased.  Barack Obama has swept into Washington like the first day of a New Year.  He stands for a brand new page on which the next chapter of America's history will be written.  The euphoria and sense of freshness that surrounds this man reminds me of a Spring day during which clean sheets are hung on the clothesline to dry, and snap smartly in gentle breezes.

Barack Obama stands for hope and change in America.  It is my personal hope that he will be granted the patience of the populace because change will not happen overnight and problems will not evaporate in days, or months, or possibly even years.  Whether you agree with him, or disagree with him, voted for him, or voted for the other candidate - if Barack Obama succeeds, America succeeds; if he fails, we all fail.  I am willing to give him the benefit of time and patience to get the job done.

This transition of power and the 'clean page' that America has been given reminds me of midnight on New Year's Eve when folks promise to 'do better', to 'change' and 'achieve'.  If you want to make and keep a New Year Resolution, you have to be passionate, patient, committed, and realistic about results that will occur one small step at a time, one day at a time, through hard work and good, solid planning.  The same holds true for the task before the incoming President and his Administration.  There will be good times and rough times, successes and failures along the way.  Change will not happen overnight, but it will happen, if we don't give up.  I hope America and her people are ready to run this marathon.  It will be a journey that requires hard work and sacrifice, not only from the President, but also from each one of us.  We do not face a simple sprint.  We face a long road ahead . . . much like making a beloved dream, a heartfelt resolution, a reality.

In months to come, I intend to 'Be Grateful For Heroes', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 20, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Have My Teeth Examined! - Day 19

When was your last dental exam?  Maintaining healthy teeth isn't just good for self esteem, it is also important for overall physical health, according to the American Dental Association.  With that in mind, making my Spring appointment is at the top of my priority list.  In an effort to keep myself organized and on time with my doctor and dental exams (for me and my cat BJ because my Vet says dental health is important to an animal's health, same as humans), I try to schedule my Spring exams and Fall exams all at once, well in advance, a couple times each year, so they're on my calendar.  Once done, I don't have to worry last minute scheduling when it's harder to get the desired appointments.  This strategy doesn't always work exactly as planned, which is fine.  Unforeseen illness pops up, or an occasional cracked filling and you head to the doctor/dentist as needed. 

I intend to 'Schedule My Dental Exams', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

In my daily effort to learn new things I found an informative blog and E-Book, Brush-your-teeth , authored by Boston, Massachusetts Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Helaine Smith, DMD.  On her blog Dr. Smith wrote, "If I were to ask you how to keep your body healthy, you would most likely answer "diet and exercise," "live a healthy lifestyle," or "don't smoke." Yet, if I told you that your number one tool for preventing disease is right in your bathroom, you might start laughing. It's true -- your toothbrush, that light-weight, colorful piece of plastic, is your secret weapon in prolonging your life and keeping your body healthy."

Good advice for both me and my cat, as far as I'm concerned.  BJ, pictured above, has had her teeth cleaned and regular check-ups - but at age 19 (in April 2009), she's an old, but loveable lady and her teeth show their age.  According to a cat age conversion chart that I found at About.Com - BJ at 19, will be a whopping 92-years-old in human years!  If you're interested in reading more about why dental health is so important for you, me and our pets, click through these websites, articles and studies: 

• PetDental.Com - Pets Need Dental Care Too!
• PetEducation.Com - Dental Health Care For Cats
• American Dental Association - Cleaning Teeth And Gums
• ThePetCenter.Com - Oral Hygiene And Your Dog's Health
• MayoClinic.Com - Oral Health:  A Window To Your Overall Health
• About.Com - Research And Studies About Dental Health And Overall Health

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 19, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Get Ready For Spring Planting! - Day 18

Are you counting the days to Spring?  I started my annual 'countdown' back in November, long before the onset of frigid temperatures and heaps of snow.  Spring is now right around the corner, just 61 days away!  As you can tell, I'm not a winter person.  I love Spring, Summer and Fall, and work to make the best of the 'cold' months.  Don't get me wrong.  I don't hibernate for one full quarter each year, but I can't participate in all the outdoor activities that I love as often as I can during he warm months:  gardening, biking, hiking, swimming, and so on.  My way of taking a 'glass half full' approach to winter is to tackle a variety of indoor projects in January and February, so I can head outdoors as soon as the temperatures warm and the blooms burst.  'Yep', I do a lot of my Spring cleaning in advance of Spring - and I'm already mapping my 2009 garden strategy! 

I intend to 'Plan My Spring Garden,' as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

When I lived in the city, I schlepped huge wooden barrels and bag-after-bag of of 'dirt' up to my condo's roof deck.  My friends were entertained by my ability to grow gorgeous flowers, plump tomatoes, leafy basil and herbs on a roof in the middle of D.C. (they enjoyed the tasty fruits of my labor).  A house with a large yard, garden beds and acres of woods lured me from my city digs to the country and I've never looked back.  I love getting back to nature:  the critters keep me company and the gardening keeps me busy - and in shape.  Gardening is great exercise! 

In anticipation of Friday, March 20th - the first day of Spring - here's the start of my 'To Do List':

• Keep an eye on the weather forecast so that I can head outdoors for a few hours, a few days each week, to mulch leaves, clear tree debris and prep my garden beds.
• Schlep three or four bags of mulch home from the store each week (a weekly chore since last Fall).  Some years I have a couple trucks of mulch spread on my beds. This year I decided to do it myself, little-by-little, day-by-day.  I want to get my hands dirty, spend a lot of time outside in the garden, and get a lot of exercise and fresh air (it will help me to cross-train for my Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk in October!).
• Order my seed catalogs and go through my stash of seeds so that I can plan what I want to plant in each bed.
• Organize and clean my garage, tool shed and tools.
• Schedule a tune up for my riding mower.  Mowing is the best part of my weekend some weekends.  I love cruising my yard on my mower, a pretty green and yellow John Deere.  It is so relaxing.
• Pull out some of my favorite gardening books and magazines, and start surfing the Internet for some gardening tips and ideas.

With that in mind - surfing the Internet - here are some interesting websites that are sure to stoke your interest in Spring Garden Planning, in advance of Spring:

• About.Com - Gardening
• TheButterflySite.Com - Articles
• OrganicGardening.Com - Spring Planting Tips
• Burpee.Com - Seeds, flowers, bulbs, vegetables, tools & more!
• National Gardening Association - Container Gardens, Butterflies & More!
• GardenGuides.Com - Garden Guides, Your Guide To Everything Gardening
• Guardian.Co.UK - Gardening Blog, From The Archive - New Year Resolutions

 Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 18, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For The Arts! - Day 17

When was the last time you paid a visit to your local museum to peruse the fine art and soak up some history?  I'm due for a visit very soon!  I'm a huge fan of the Smithsonian Institution, which has 19 museums, nine research centers and more than 140 affiliate museums around the world, according to its website.  I continue to be a faithful patron of both its museums and its classes.  For more than a decade, I was a weekly fixture in the Smithsonian's Saturday 'Open Darkroom'.  I  toiled over pans of chemicals to turn out beautiful black and white prints, worked with fabulous instructors and made wonderful friends who share my passion for photography.  Due to the power of digital photography, and my digital darkroom, Adobe Photoshop, I don't work in the Smithsonian's darkroom much anymore.  But I am still a huge fan of the Smithsonian and all the wonders that it offers.

I intend to make time to 'Visit A Museum'specifically the Smithsonian, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

I have set aside a Saturday in February to visit the Smithsonian.  It's a day that I plan to volunteer at a Breast-Cancer 3-Day Get Started Meeting, have dinner with friends and take a walk on the mall.   That's at least four home runs for my New Year resolutions and a day filled with activities that I love which is sure to bring a smile to my face, another resolution!  The wonderful thing about the I Resolve To . . . Challenge is that I know what my priorities are and I make time for them every day.  Whether it's 10-minutes, an hour, or a full day devoted to my passions, that time compounds like interest in the bank and leads to results! 

I like to think off resolutions in two ways:  Resolutions with a 'Capital R' and resolutions with a 'Small r'.  Resolutions with a 'Capital R' are major life-changing pursuits (full-blown dreams, made specific with a firm, dedicated one-sentence resolution that states the 'who, what, when, where, and why', and how' of the intention, and made real with daily goals).   Resolutions with a 'Small r' are simple daily tasks and activities that can lead to new habits that can promote health and happiness.  The I Resolve To . . . Challenge is aimed at 'Small r' activities . . . to get folks in the habit of doing a minimum of one thing every single day  that will promote health and happiness.  Some days you may do just one 'Small r'.  Other days you may do 20!  The bottom-line:   Pursue at least one resolution, one day at a time, for one year - for you!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 17, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For Friends! - Day 16

When was the last time you spent an evening with your best friends - sharing a meal, catching up, laughing, and enjoying each other's company?  Sometimes I feel like 'ships passing in the night' with some of my friends.  Our schedules just don't mesh.  But that's no excuse, so I'm elevating 'gatherings' on my priority list.  I enjoy their company, and appreciate the input and support that we collectively share during both good times and bad times.  I also am well aware of the studies that show close friendships can add to health and happiness.  It's time to better prioritize my friendships.

I intend to make time to 'Gather With A Gaggle Of Friends, Let The Good Times Roll', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

As part of my daily quest to learn new things, I did my homework and uncovered interesting articles about 'why' friendship is so important to health and happiness.  I am sharing the links with the hope that the articles and websites will encourage you to reach out your dear friends, as well:

• About.Com - How & Why You Should Maintain Friendships
• MomsToday.Com - Why Friendship Helps, Heals & Makes Us Happy
• MayoClinic.Com - Friendships Enrich Your Life & Improve Your Health
• Your Total Health - Friends With Benefits:  How Pals Keep You Healthy

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 16, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Take A Nature Walk! - Day 15

 

I love to walk outside.  It's such a simple, pleasurable activity that costs nothing, and brings such vast reward and joy.  In addition to providing a good source of exercise, walking offers many other benefits:  Fresh air, sunshine (a source of Vitamin D, which according to MayoClinic.Com helps to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus), an opportunity to appreciate nature, meet new people, and experience new things.  I frequently walk through Old Town Fredericksburg and surrounding neighborhoods in the afternoon.  My routes provide a fabulous blend of calm, natural and urban settings.  My walking habit is a wonderful way to clear my head and elevate my mood, so that I can tackle the rest of the day's projects with enthusiasm and renewed energy. 

I intend to try to continue to enjoy 'The Simple Beauty Of A Nature Walk, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Interestingly, several years ago, I learned about a disorder that you didn't hear about when I was a child in the 1960's, from one of my environmental clients The Audubon Naturalist Society in Maryland (ANS).   Nature Deficit Disorder, is a term coined by Richard Louv in his 2005 book Last Child In The Woods.  The term refers to the alleged trend that children are spending less time outdoors, resulting in a wide range of behavioral problems.  One of the reasons that I enjoy working for ANS is that it provides so many different classes and opportunities for children and adults alike to get outside, walk, experience and learn more about nature;  which in turn helps to instill a desire to protect and preserve the environment (another of my priority resolutions, right alongside walking/hiking outdoors and exercise).  If you'd like to learn more about this interesting theory, I'm attaching links to articles and websites:

• Children & Nature Network
• Wikipedia - Nature Deficit Disorder
• National Wildlife Federation - Green Hour
• Salon.Com - Do Today's Kids "Have Nature Defict Disorder"?
• Richard Louv's Website - Author Of Last Child In The Woods

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 15, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Smile! - Day 14

Smile a little smile each and every day - now that is a laudable goal that could bring joy to you and those folks who travel your path.  Look at this little fella and the joy that is written all over his face.  As adults, of course, there are moments and days in which it is hard to summon a smile.  During this horrible economic downturn it's difficult for folks in pain to smile amid hardship.  It is at those moments, however, that it is probably more important than ever to count blessings and smile for what we have rather than what we don't have (in an effort to find a ray of sunshine through the darkness).  Some days it's hard to view the glass as half full, but it's important to try because a positive attitude lends hope and motivation.

I intend to try to 'Smile A Little Smile', each day, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

I don't spend much time 'analyzing happiness' or 'consciously seeking happiness'.  I have found that 'doing what I love and loving what I do' tends to bring great joy, reward and achievement to my life - and 'yes' those activities and experiences bring a smile to my face.  I do give a great deal of thought to my dreams, resolutions, and goals because they are part of that same notion, 'do what you love'.  There are a whole host of things that bring happiness to my life:  friends and loved ones, my passion for photography and writing, walking, exercise, Pre-Meditated Acts Of Kindness, raising money for a breast cancer cure . . . the list is far too long to bore you with more.  My point is that I don't chase happiness. I do what I love and love what I do, and happiness is part of the process (along with a whole host of other emotions that I accept as part of the journey).

You might be wondering why I raise this in connection to 'smiling'.  I ran across a book that I want to read this week, 'Happiness - The Science Behind Your Smile', written by Daniel Nettle and published in 2006 by Oxford Press.  An Amazon.Com review from the Scientific American states:    "He concludes this pleasant, jargon-free book with some advice: total happiness is not attainable, but you can manipulate your mind and life to reduce the impact of negative emotion, increase positive emotion and—most important—stop consciously seeking happiness at all. He quotes an old joke about the Dalai Lama, who is visited by a rich acolyte bearing a huge, gift-wrapped box. The Dalai Lama opens the box to find it empty and exclaims, "Exactly what I’ve always wanted!""   I also found an interesting review of Nettle's book at  The-Happy-Manager.Com.

I'm not one of those people that wakes up with a smile on my face and smiles automatically throughout the day.  I'm somewhat reserved and serious.  I cultivate joy and reward through my passions, and 'yes' I smile at loved ones (and strangers) because it feels good and it makes others feel good.  I'm not going to spend a lot of time analyzing 'happiness', but I do look forward to reading Nettle's book, and learning more about what the experts and studies say about 'smiling & happiness'.  Learning new things each day is among the many daily activities that makes me 'happy' - and it's one of my daily resolutions!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 14, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Be A Kind Driver! - Day 13

Bumper to bumper traffic, careless drivers, and days filled with too much to do and too little time to do it, contribute to stress, unhappy travels, and 'yes' road-rage on our highways and byways.  Driving doesn't have to be an annoying experience.  If you truly want to experience 'happy trails', an attitude adjustment, a heavy dose of common sense, and a firm decision to be 'consciously kind' on the road, can make all the difference.  Personally, I get easily frustrated in traffic, so last year part of my New Year resolution was to be 'consciously kind', and perform 'Pre-Meditated Acts Of Kindness', particularly while in the car.  I have to admit, I am a much calmer and kinder driver today, compared with 15 years ago when I was first introduced to Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area gridlock.  My change in attitude and coping skills didn't happen overnight, but it did happen, and good habits were born.

With that in mind, n 2009, I intend to continue my practice of 'Minding My Manners In Traffic', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Here are a few common sense things that I try to do, or keep in mind, in an effort to be kinder to fellow drivers, reduce stress and make driving more pleasant:

1. Be conscious of my attitude toward other drivers and think about the way I am reacting, especially when others are rude or reckless.  Responding, 'in kind', only makes the situation worse, so I try to get out of the way and let 'green-eyed monsters' pass.  It's safer and tends to make driving more pleasant when you just roll with the punches on the road.
2. Recognize that the folks in those cars are people just like you and me and treat them with the same courtesy that one would show in a face-to-face encounter.
3. Stay on the right when I am driving slower than others in traffic, and let people merge, rather than speeding up to get ahead of folks trying to enter the flow.
4. Listen to music, or taped books, that are pleasant and soothing (it really helps to take my mind off off snails-pace traffic during rush hour).
5. Feel good because I know I'm helping others rather than being rude, or careless on the road.

Here are a few interesting articles and websites about stress, road-rage, and safe driving:

• RoadTripAmerica.Com - 70 Rules To Live By
• CrashPrevention.Org - The Partnership For Safe Driving
• About.Com - How To Manage Road Rage To Stay Healthier And Safer
• TeenDriving.Com - Safe Driving Tips For Teens, Parents, And All Drivers
• SafeDrivingTest.Com - Drive For Life, National Safe Driving Test & Initiative

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 13, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Learn, Learn, Learn! - Day 12

Learning new things isn't something that should be reserved strictly for the young.  It shouldn't stop when students graduate school with diplomas and degrees.  Learning should be a lifelong pursuit that is achieved one day at a time because opening one's mind to new ideas, information, experiences, and people can promote a life well lived in a myriad of ways.  Knowledge is power.  It can make a person stronger and more confident.  Learning new things can help at home and at work.  It can lead one to fulfill dreams, keep New Year Resolutions and achieve daily goals.  For instance, when you know the 'who, what, when, where, why, and how' of a dream, resolution or goal, you can build an action plan that will take you from start to finish.  What could be better than that?

In 2009, I intend to continue my practice of 'Learning Something New Each Day, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

There are so many different ways that a person can approach learning.  You can either learn new things randomly on a variety of topics, or you can target your learning effort specifically to passions and interests.  Personally, I like to do both.  Nearly every day I learn new things by reading the newspaper, or watching the news on television, or surfing the Internet on favorite topics (which usually lead me to random bits of new and interesting information), or talking to friends and colleagues.  I also learn new things every day about my passion -  making and keeping New Year Resolutions - via Google Alerts.  Google Alerts are wonderful because they drop E-Mails full of news, opinion pieces, polls, blog posts, studies, products - you name it- right into my E-Mail box real time.  The one major thing that I have learned via this constant, daily flow of information, since 2005 when I launched IResolveTo.Com, is that making and keeping New Year Resolutions is 99% common sense.  In turn, my approach is simple and based on common sense.  There is plenty of research that backs up that premise, and I am launching a new section here at IResolveTo.Com that will be dedicated to news, information, studies, and research, so that I can share more of what I have learned since 2005.

Regardless of what you learn and how you learn it - research has shown that 'exercising' your brain is important to overall health.  I did my homework and put together a list of articles and websites that contain research, studies and other information about learning - and why it's so important to health and happiness, along with some fun sites that can help you to learn some new 'stuff':

• Alzheimers Association - Brain Health
• HowStuffWorks.Com - Learn How Stuff Works
• MayoClinic.Org - Staying Mentally Sharp Takes Brain Work
• CBS.Com - Author Of Making A Good Brain Great, Offers Advice
• AARP.Org - Brain Health:  Research, Studies, Tips For A Health Brain, And More
• Wikipedia.Com - Learn Something New Every Day With Wikipedia's Random Page
• Campiagn-For-Learning.Org.UK - Start Now. Don't Stop.  Why Learning Is Important

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 12, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For Rest & Relaxation! - Day 11

Worry and stress are frequent-flyers in our fast-paced, technology-laden, consumer-driven, multi-tasking society.  Since the economy tanked last year, they have become near-constant, unwanted, undesirable companions for many who are suffering.  In addition to tending to all the 'usual' concerns and responsibilities that cascade from our 'In-Boxes', we watch in horror as our retirement money evaporates.  We wonder if there will be a job to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table.  As we struggle to contend with circumstances that are far beyond our 'control', it is vitally important to pay close attention to simple 'self-care' - and nurture a determination to 'Chill Baby Chill.'  There are so many beneficial habits that we can incorporate into our day-to-day lives if we are interested, willing and committed.  The 'self-care' that I'm advocating includes:    Greater balance, adequate rest, more relaxation, daily exercise, good food, and time to do things that we love, with our loved ones. 

I am determined to 'Chill Baby Chill' in 2009, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Burning the candle at both ends tends to dominate my lifestyle.  I'm self-employed and devoted to my creative projects, hobbies and volunteer activities.  Single-minded tunnel vision can promote stress, fatigue, burnout, and a scarcity of time to simply 'relax and have fun'.  I'm well aware of the changes that I permanently need to make to gain more balance.  I am taking steps to gradually incorporate those changes, so that I don't have to turn my life upside overnight.  I'm practicing what I preach:  Chasing dreams and making change one small step at a time, one day at a time.  It's amazing what you can accomplish over weeks, months and years; but you have to be determined, willing to learn the 'who, what, when, where, why, and how' of the change you are proposing, and committed enough to build a plan and follow though.  Here are some of the things that I'm doing to build 'Chill Time' into my lifestyle:

1. Working to make better use of time by planning my days more effectively, tackling my priorities 'first', saying 'no' to activities when I am over-booked, and spending less time checking E-mail, and performing other recurring tasks that are time-vampires (if you're not careful).
2. Working to educate myself about the ill effects of stress, worry, over-work, and burnout.
3. Cleaning and organizing my house and work space - an organized space lends itself to productivity, calmness, and a general feeling of achievement and well being.  I love a clean house and office!
4. Meditating for 10-15-minutes each day, exercising for 30-minutes each day (which helps me to relax since I walk, bike, swim, and do Yoga), and sleeping for eight hour.
5. Taking a day, or two, off on the weekend (even when I feel that I should be working, either on creative projects, or business-related work).  Your body and mind tell you, loud and clear, when it is time to kick back and be 'lazy'.  Listening to those messages can promote increased health and happiness.

If you are interested in reading more about the ill-effects of stress and worry - and the benefit of rest and relaxation - have a look at these websites and articles:

• Loyola College In Maryland - Relaxation And Self Care
• About.Com - Understanding, Managing & Preventing Burnout
• Loyola College In Maryland - Relaxation Tips, Resources & Websites
• American Institute Of Stress - The Role Of Stress In Health & Illness
• MayoClinic.Com - Relaxation Techniques:  Learn Ways To Calm Your Stress

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 11, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved 

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For Exercise & Adventure! - Day 10

Spring is 59 days away, but don't let that stop you from getting outside for fresh air and exercise!  Plan some weekend hikes, or start bundling up and walking during lunch-hour.  I'll admit, I am not a winter person.  I adore Spring, Summer and Fall.  I am less appreciative of the cold weather months, so I employ a number of strategies during the winter to avoid cabin fever, get exercise, and prepare for Spring when I can head outdoors and revel in the sights and sounds of nature's rebirth.  First, I use a small home gym, so that I can bike, stretch, do Yoga, and work out with weights when it's too cold to walk outdoors (walking is one of my favorite activities).  Second, I count down to Spring, starting in November, and use the cold weather months to complete indoor projects.  That way, I'm free to do all the weekend, outdoor activities that I love when the weather warms (gardening, biking, walking, swimming, and so on).

Despite a preference for warm weather, I'm determined to 'Hike A New Trail' during upcoming winter weekends, as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

There are so many different ways to hike, urban, rural and wilderness trails for instance.  The point is to get outside and have fun with hiking or walking, either with 'tried and true'favorite routes, or by venturing to new places so you can see new sights along the way.  If you begin brainstorming and surfing the Internet, you're sure to find State Parks, local parks, and historic neighborhoods, to name just a few options for walking and hiking adventures.  My favorite route in Fredericksburg takes me from Old Town, past the University of Mary Washington and through the Fredericksburg Civil War Battlefield and down the famous 'Sunken Road' - the photo above is part of my route, it's gorgeous and inspiring.  If you need  little more inspiration to strap your tennis shoes on this winter - here are some excellent articles and websites about the benefits of exercise:

• FamilyDoctor.Org - The Exercise Habit

• New York Times - You Name It, Exercise Helps It

• A-B-C-Of-Yoga.Com - Why Yoga Exercise Is Good For You

• The Mayo Clinic - Seven Benefits Of Regular Physical Activity

• About.Com - Exercise 101, Benefits Guidelines & Principles For Weight Loss & Health

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto  

Kim M. Simpson - January 10, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto  

I Resolve To™ . . . Get Adequate Sleep! - Day 9

A good night's sleep is one of the keys to good health and happiness.  I can catalog, from personal experience, the ill effects of a 'bad night's sleep':  Crabbiness, difficulty concentrating, reduced productivity to name just a few of the side-effects.  I am a light sleeper and often wake up several times during the middle of the night.  Early menopause made things worse for a number of years, but fortunately my sleep patterns are improving.  I take steps to get six-to-eight hours of sleep each night, drink alcohol moderately, exercise, and avoid caffeine late in the day - all doctor-recommended habits to cultivate.

My resolution to 'Catch My ZZZZs' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Much has been written about the benefits of getting a good night sleep - for both health and happiness and I want to share some of the websites and articles that I've found to be useful:

• About.Com - Benefits Of Sleep
• About.Com - Top 10 Benefits Of A Good Night's Sleep
• Harvard Medical School, Division of Sleep Medicine - Benefits of Sleep
• Mayo Clinic - Seven Benefits of Regular Physical Activity (Promotes Better Sleep
• HelpGuide.Org - Tips For Getting Better Sleep:  Learn Better Sleeping Habits & Develop A Personal Plan

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 9, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Count My Blessings! - Day 8

Thank You!  Those two short words summarize the way that I feel about being given another day on God's green earth.  I like to count my blessings and show my gratitude for each new day that I receive.  It's a simple way of feeling good about all that I have and all that I am, and it helps me to avoid taking things for granted.  Lord knows, I could spend my time worrying about all the bad things that are going on in the world.  I could grumble and sulk about the challenges that blossom like dandelions some days . . . Instead I am making a conscious effort to worry less, complain less, accept what I can't change and change what I can't accept.  I succeed in that mission a good deal of the time, and when I slip-up, I resolve to do better - and I do better.  A big part of that effort is simply being grateful for each new day that I have been given and working to make the best possible use of that gift of 24-hours.

My resolution to 'be grateful for each new day' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

If you want to fulfill a dream, keep a New Year Resolution, or achieve a daily goal - doing your homework is an important component of any winning strategy.  Knowledge is power.  It can help you to build an informed plan that includes the daily tasks that will make a nebulous dream reality.  Along that vein much as been written on the subject of 'gratitude'.  I want to share some interesting articles and websites that offer common sense reasons why a daily dose 'gratitude' can be good for you:

• Wikipedia.Com - Gratitude

• PsyBlog - Practicing Gratitude Can Increase Happiness 25%

• PsyBlog - Better Mood From Gratitude:  Two-Minute Exercise - Start Now!

• About.Com - Cultivating Gratitude - The Benefits Of Gratitude For Stress Relief

• ACFNEWSOURCE - Gratitude Theory: Researchers Find The Virtues Of Gratitude Include Good Health

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 8, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . Make The Environment A Daily Priority! - Day 7

If you want protect and preserve the planet, the good news is that you don't have to turn your life upside down to achieve results.  You can begin with small changes . . . one small step at a time, one day at a time.  Those daily actions can lead to permanent habits that, in turn, add up to big dividends over time.  Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us drives fewer vehicle miles, uses more energy efficient light bulbs, and turns off lights in un-used rooms.  

One of my resolutions in 2008 was to urge others to follow my lead, and take small steps every day toward protecting the environment.  I'm continuing that resolution to 'Give The Boot To My Carbon Footprint', as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009.

If you are interested in developing daily habits that could promote the health of the planet and, in turn, a healthier life for you, me and generations to come, roll up your sleeves.

Here are 10 easy habits to cultivate.  A quick start!

1. Wash and rinse clothes in cold water.
2. Turn lights off when you leave rooms.
3. Plant a tree in observance of Arbor Day.
4. Turn your computer off when you are not using it.
5. Consolidate errands in an effort to driver fewer miles.
6. Reduce dependence on plastic bags and plastic water bottles.
7. Turn your thermostat down to 68 in the winter and up in the summer.
8. Replace fluorescent light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs.
9. Educate yourself about your Carbon Footprint and the benefits of reducing your footprint.
10. Bring your lunch to work at least two days each week - you'll save money and reducing fast food trash.

Here is a list of informative websites that I compiled in 2008.  They've helped me my efforts to protect and preserve the environment and I hope you will find them useful as well!

Climate Change -Take Action Today!

• EarthLab
• Carbon Footprint 
• Clean Air-Cool Planet 
• StopGlobalWarming.Org 
• ConservaStore - Light Bulbs
• Conservation International 
• EnvironmentalLights.com - Light Bulbs
• Climatecrisis.net - An Inconvenient Truth 
• Direct.Gov.UK - Calculate Your Carbon Footprint 
• Environmental Defense - Fight Global Warming 
• Environmental Defense - 'How To Pick A Better Bulb'.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-Department of Energy, Energy Star.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Personal Emissions Calculator 
• FastCompany.com - How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take To Change The World(FastCompanyComLightBulbs.pdf).

Carbon Offsets

• TerraPass.Com
• CarbonFund.Org
• TreeHugger.Com
• The Climate Trust
• CarbonCounter.Org
• David Suzuki Foundation
• Wikipedia - Carbon Offsets
• The Environmental Defense Fund
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Climate Change
• NewYorkTimesFTCCarbonOffsetsJanuary2008.pdf
• BusinessWeekAnotherInconvenientTruthMarch2007.pdf
• ChristianScienceMonitorCarbonOffsetsJanuary2007.pdf
• Joint Statement By WWF, Friends of The Earth and Green Peace on Carbon Offets:  WWF-GP-FoE_on_offseting.pdf

Earth Day - April 22, 2009

• Earth Day Network
• Earth Day - Earth 911
• Earth Day - Wikipedia
• Earth Day - World Wildlife Fund
• Earth Day - EnviroLink Network
• Earth Day - The Wilderness Society
• Earth Day - The Nature Conservancy
• Earth Day - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• About.Com Earth Day - Washington, D.C., Maryland & Virginia 

Arbor Day - April 24, 2009

• Arbor Day Foundation 
• Wikipedia - Arbor Day 
• Plant-A-Tree-Today 
• Clean Air Gardening 
• Trees Are Good 
• American Forests
• United Nations Environment Programme - Tree Planting 

How To Help The Environment - Tips For Kids

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency - Climate Change Kids Site
• NRDC's Global Warming Challenge
• GlobalWarmingKids.Net
• Cool Kids For A Cool Climate
• Pew Center Global Climate Change
• Science News For Kids - Climate Change

Tips On Recycling

• Ecologue
• Earth 911
• Wikipedia - Recycling
• Grassroots Recycling Network
• PlanetPals - Recycling For Kids
• The Encyclopedia Of Earth - Recycling
• TreeHugger - How To Green Your Recycling
• RecycleWorks - San Mateo County, California
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:  Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
• Magazine Publishers Family Literacy Project - Read, Rescue & Reuse

Tips On Reducing Plastic Bag Use

• Poconorecord.com - Plastic Bag Use
• Planet Ark - Why Are Plastic Bags A Problem?
• Environmental Literacy Council - Paper or Plastic?
• Salon - Plastic Bags Are Killings Us - SalonPlasticBags.pdf
• AlterNet, The Great Plastic Bag Plague - AlterNetPlasticBags.pdf
• Portland Business Journal - Whole Foods Market Bans Plastic: PortlandBusinessJournalPlasticBags.pdf 

Tips On Winterizing Homes

• E-How - How To Winterize A Home
• About.Com - Winterizing Your Home
• CBS News - How To Winterize Your Home
• About.Com - Easy Home Winterizing Checklist
• About.Com - How To Winterize Your Vacation Home
• MSN Real Estate - 10 Ways To Winterize Your Home, Now

Tips On Winterizing Gardens

• EHow - How To Winterize Your Garden
• Reader's Digest - Winterize Your Garden
• About.Com - Winterizing The Landscape In Fall
• Pittsburgh Tribune-Review - Now Is The Time To Winterize Your Garden
• Gardening With The Helpful Gardener - Preparing Your Garden For Winter

Tips On Mulching Gardens

• How Stuff Works - How to Mulch
• The Savvy Gardener - All About Mulch
• Earth 911 - How To Mulch Grass Clippings
• Do It Yourself - How To Mulch Trees And Shrubs
• About.Com - Rake Leaves And Make Compost, Mulch
• Dummies.Com - Understanding The Benefits Of Garden Mulch
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service - Mulching

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 7, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Earth Day - April 22, 2009

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

I Resolve To™ . . . 'Not' Be A Litterbug! - Day 6

One of the easiest, simplest things that you and I can do to protect and preserve the environment - and a healthy survival on this planet - is to avoid littering.  Ever.  No cigarette butts out of the car window.  No fast food wrappers left in a park.  No trash tossed in a creek.  No. No. No.  I cringe every time I see trash along the roadway because it is so easy to simply keep it in the car until you pull up near a trash barrel.

My resolution to 'Keep America Beautiful' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Remember the 'Keep America Beautiful' campaign of the 1960's and 1970's?  I was small child when the campaign to promote national cleanliness was launched.  It must have rubbed off - that and strict parents - because I would no more toss garbage out of my car window, or drop trash on the street while I'm walking, than litter in my own home.  While I don't often see anyone toss more than a cigarette butt out of a car window, folks do litter because the telltale signs sometimes dot the roadside like dandelions on a pristine lawn. 

Last year, when I began my effort to do more for the environment, I looked into the status of the 'Keep America Beautiful' campaign.  It didn't take long to find the Keep America Beautiful (KAB) Website, which has a great section describing the history and how the concept was launched.  As it turns out, the effort was born in 1953 when a group of corporate and civic leaders met in New York to discuss ways to bring the public and private sectors together, as partners, in a 'national cleanliness campaign'.  According to the KAB Website, a National Advisory Council was organized in 1953; and in 1956 the first Public Service Announcement (PSA) appeared. 

The KAB Website has a wealth of information, including some original ads which are still very powerful.  Unfortunately, the the same images of pollution could be photographed today alongside some rivers.  In an effort to shine a spotlight on the 'Keep America Beautiful' effort, I am attaching some interesting links to its website.  Surf by when you have a minute, it's fascinating.

• Keep America Beautiful
• Keep American Beautiful Mission
• Keep America Beautiful (Including Original Advertisements)
• Keep America Beautiful Historic Print - Pollution_print_iron_eyes_cody

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 6, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

The KAB Website has a wealth of information, including some original ads which are still very powerful.  Unfortunately, the the same images of pollution could be photographed today alongside some rivers.  In an effort to shine a spotlight on the 'Keep America Beautiful' effort, I am attaching some interesting links to its website.  Surf by when you have a minute, it's fascinating.

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 6, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Let My Light Shine! - Day 5

Each one of us is unique . . . one of a kind from head-to-toe, inside-and-outside.  You and I are incomparable - like this fella above.  There is no one else on the planet that shares our individual  qualities, gifts and skills.  In 2009 I intend to let my light shine, be proud of myself and believe in my dreams and my ability to make them real.  I intend to worry less about how other people perceive me, and worry less, in general.  I Resolve To . . . Be Me!  And Darn proud of it!

My resolution to 'Be Me' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Make every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Being yourself and self-pride plays a big role in a person's ability to succeed and be happy, according to experts.  If you have a negative attitude about your appearance, attributes, or ability to be successful - you have erected an obstacle at the outset, before you even begin an endeavor.  Alternatively, if you believe in yourself, your skills, and your ability to succeed, you are in a much better position to achieve your dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  Dr. Annette Colby, RD offers interesting insight in an article:  Nurture Self-Pride In Yourself In Eight Easy Steps.  Several other interesting, thought-provoking articles are listed below:

• WikiHow - How To Be Yourself
• Psychology Today - Dare To Be Yourself
• New York Times - For Girls It's Be Yourself And Be Perfect Too.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 5, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 5, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Reach Out & Feel Good! - Day 4

Hugs . . . they are free and they make you feel good.  In 2009, I intend to give more hugs to my friends, family, and my cat BJ. (she's already the recipient of 'many daily hugs', so this is an easy resolution).  My resolution to 'Give More Hugs' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Why not join me?  The objective is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make Every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  The list of possibilities is infinite and can be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.

Each day I will post a photo that promotes a simple, common sense resolution. The goal is to Resolve365 in 2009!  I'm launching the Challenge in an effort to urge folks to take small daily steps that will promote health and happiness for the entire year, not just the month of January when most resolutions fizzle.  The challenge also helps me to "Do what I love.  Love what I do":  Write, photograph and show gratitude by 'giving back' - in this case, helping others to make and keep their new year resolutions.

If you're looking for an easy way to 'feel good' and make others 'feel good', to get closer to someone, and show affection - give a hug, or two, or more every day!  Learn more about 'why' hugs are beneficial by checking out these articles and websites:

• Squidoo.Com - The Free Hugs Campaign
• LifePositive.Com - Have You Hugged Anyone Lately?
• AssociatedContent.Com - The Many Benefits Of The Hug.
• USAToday.Com - Hugs Warm The Heart & May Protect It. 
• SixWise.Com - How Hugs Are Proven To Help Your Health.

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 4, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 4, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Time For A Small Indulgence! - Day 3

Time to take a nice loooonnnng deeep breath.  The holidays are now a page in the family scrap book - a wonderful memory.  We worked hard, made everything just so, shared, laughed, ate, drank, played . . . and now it's a new year.  After the chores are done today, make sure to schedule some 'me time' as a reward for a job well done.  Indulge yourself with a nice nap!

If you need some reasons 'why' it's a good idea to take a nap - other than the obvious - check out these websites for fun!

• Talkaboutsleep.com - The Benefit of Naps.
• HealthCentral.com - Napping - It's All The Rage!
• Wikipedia - Studies showing the benefits of napping.
• RirianProject.com - 10 Benefits Of Power Napping, And How To Do It.
• About.Com - Sleep Benefits: Power Napping for Increased Productivity, Stress Relief & Health.

My resolution to 'Nap' is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  The mission, should you choose to accept it, is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  The list of possibilities is infinite and should be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make Every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 3, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 3, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Make Every Day New Year's Day - Make Every Day Count! - Day 2

Are you ready to be a Resolutionista in 2009?  Resolutionistas make resolutions, keep resolutions and enjoy the journey.  They think outside the box and pursue resolutions in a non-traditional way.  Rather than making a resolution that they probably won't keep about 'stopping a bad habit', or 'starting a new habit because they should' - they pursue a dream.  Resolutionistas "Do what they love and love what they do".  Resolutionistas succeed by following these simple, common sense tips:

1. Resolutionistas pursue just one large dream at a time:  One dream about which they have great desire, passion and interest.
2. Resolutionistas are realistic about what they can achieve in any given day, week, month, and year.
3. Resolutionistas take things one-day-at-a-time to avoid getting overwhelmed:  One resolution, one day at a time (in other words, one daily goal at at time).
4. Resolutionistas do their homework:  They educate themselves about the 'who, what, when, where, and why' of achieving their dream.
5. Resolutionistas define, specifically, what they intend to achieve:  For instance, my personal favorite resolution is, "I resolve to exercise for 30-minutes each day by walking, stretching, biking, doing Yoga, swimming, or working out with weights, so that I can maintain my ideal weight, muscle tone, and fitness; and so that I can have fun, and have a healthy, happy, positive, optimistic, state of being."
6. Resolutionistas enlist support:  They tell their friends and family and seek assistance; find resolution partners with whom they can share the journey;  solicit help from mentors;  take classes, join clubs, and participate in blogging communities.
7. Resolutionistas build, and regularly update, a realistic written plan that includes daily tasks, timelines and deadlines.
8. Resolutionistas keep written track of their progress and 'Check-In' every week, so that they can make course corrections, learn from mistakes and celebrate victories.
9. Resolutionistas recognize and that 'goof ups' happen:  They understand that 'there is no failure in failure' because they learn lessons from mistakes and move forward.
10. Resolutionistas banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome':  They make their dreams a permanent part of their daily routine today not tomorrow . . . and they never 'give up' on their dreams despite the necessity for hard work and sacrifice.  They make every day New Year's Day.  They make every day count.

My resolution to make every day new year's day, make every day count is part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  The mission, should you choose to accept it, is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  The list of possibilities is infinite and should be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make Every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources.  Resolve365 in 2009!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 2, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 2, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

I Resolve To™ . . . Dream Large In 2009! - Day 1

Happy New Year!  Are you ready for 2009?  Are you ready for a challenge?  If so, please join me in the coming year in taking the I Resolve To™ . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  The mission, should you choose to accept it, is very simple:  Do at least one thing each and every day to promote health and happiness for 'YOU'.  The list of possibilities is infinite and should be tailored to your own dreams, resolutions and daily goals.  Banish the 'Someday, Someday, Someday Syndrome'.  Instead, make Every day New Year's Day.  Make every day count.  If you need some help - a little nudge, a bit of inspiration, tips, advice, and news about the best ways to make resolutions a reality - please use IResolveTo.Com as one of your resources. 

Each day in 2009, I will be posting a different Health & Happiness Resolution to spur your creative juices and mine!  I believe in leading by example.  I practice what I preach and I put my energy where my mouth is.  One of my mottos is "Do what you love.  Love what you do".  I live by that creed.  Each year, I pursue dreams, resolutions and daily goals that are on my 'Lifetime Resolution List'.  Exercise, for instance, is one of my 'Lifetime Resolutions'.  In 2008, I paired my love of sports and exercise with my resolution to 'give back'.  I trained for and participated in the Washington, DC Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk.  I got plenty of exercise, met wonderful people, and raised more than $3000 for Breast Cancer Research.  It was a fabulous experience and I fulfilled two of my resolutions.

In 2009, I am taking my dreams, resolutions and daily goals to the next level.  I intend to continue my exercise program, participate in the 2009 Washington, DC Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk, and recycle - a few of my permanent resolutions - and I'm launching a new creative project.  I am 'wedding' my love of photography and writing by creating 365 inspirational photographs - 365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  My hope is that these images will help to inspire others to 'Do What You Love. Love What You Do - and in turn, make and keep their New Year Resolutions. 

My on-going dream is to provide folks with a simple, common sense system, tips, tools, and advice about making and keeping resolutions.  The catch is that I'm not advocating resolution-setting in the traditional sense:  Making a wish at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve about something that you want to 'stop doing', or something that you feel you 'should be doing'.  Based on statistics, chances are good, those traditional resolutions will fail without a different approach.

Instead, I urge you to open your mind and change the way you think about New Year Resolutions - they can be powerful tools if handled properly.  Instead of 'giving up on New Year Resolutions, change the paradigm.  Lose the fear of coloring outside the lines.  Try a new approach.  If you've been making and failing to keep the same resolution every year, stop!   In 2009, do something positive just for you.  Do what you love and love what you do!  I urge you to choose one dream about which you have great desire, interest, and passion.  Define your resolution - the 'who, what, when, where, and why' that will make it a reality.  Build a plan with a timeline and deadlines, then take at least one small step each day to make that dream a reality.  Think of the journey as a 365-day marathon, not a 30-day sprint.  But keep in mind, you don't have to run the whole Marathon today - today you just need to take that first step, and one step tomorrow, and another step the next day . . . Resolve365!

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 1, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved

Remember:  I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year.  It's your choice.  Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps:  Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good!  Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey!  Let's Go For It!

Need More Inspiration?  Wear Your Resolution!  Make Every Day New Year's Day.  Make Every Day Count.  Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link:  http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto             

Kim M. Simpson - January 1, 2009
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved