I RESOLVE TO . . .

I Resolve To® . . . Challenge Video #12

I Resolve To® . . . Make Yesterday's Dreams, Tomorrow's Reality! - Day 365

An ending.  A beginning.  Perhaps that is what I love the most as the final seconds tick by on New Year's Eve:  When the clock strikes midnight, we receive the gift of 365 new opportunities to make good on dreams, New Year Resolutions and daily goals.  As we pass from one year to the next, we receive another chance to achieve our heart's desire.  Critics of the New Year Resolution contend it is silly to wait until a specific date on the calendar to 'change'.  I agree.  If you want to start an exercise program, launch a dream, improve your health, and on and on, begin when you are ready to begin.  Begin when you can turn a spark of an idea into a flame.  Begin when you have the guts and gumption to start over and over again, until you get it right . . . until you reach your final destination with pride and passion. 

Even though I agree with the critics, I still treasure that magical date on the calendar - January 1 -because it holds promise and hope.  I believe that you can turn yesterday's dreams into tomorrow's realities, if you act with patience, passion and persistence.  The end of a year dissolving into the start of a new year is a wonderful time to transform ideas into something tangible and real.  Why not take that first step today?  Open your mind and dare to dream.  Make a decision to pursue a beloved dream, or wonderful goals that have been biding their time in your heart and soul.  Define what you intend to achieve.  Develop a plan.  Do it Daily.  That's the I Resolve To . . . System For Success, created from my own common sense experiences with New Year Resolutions.

In 2010, I intend to 'Boldly Resolve In The New Year', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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 2010!

I succeed in keeping my New Year Resolutions because I enjoy coloring outside the lines with a big, bold, red crayon.  Rather than adopting that tired list of resolutions (the 'shoulds, or 'sins', as I call them because they usually call for eliminating bad habits), I make resolutions about things that inspire passion, things that I love to do, or want to be.  I have been noodling my 2010 Resolutions since early last Fall.  I believe in adopting 'Lifetime Resolutions' - resolutions that are with me for good - rather than crossing them off my list and moving on.  So, many of my resolutions continue from one year to the next, in a building block fashion.  I work to challenge myself by taking each priority to the next level year-after-year, while adding in new priority resolutions when the time is right (alas some resolutions eventually drop off the list, as I change and grow).

With that in mind, here are some of the highlights of my 2010 intentions:

• I Resolve To . . .Challenge:  In 2010, I embark on the second year of the Challenge with the intention of taking at least one small daily step toward health and happiness in seven categories derived from my 2009 Daily Resolves  (which were illustrated via 365 photo-resolutions; I had a ball creating each and every one!).  The seven categories include:  1)  Food/Nutrition;  2)  Health/Exercise;  3)  Gratitude/Giving Back/Spirituality;  4)  Fun/Adventure;  5)   Work/Dreams/Creativity;  6)  Home/Family/Friends; and 7)  Lessons Learned/Accountability.  I also am working on the next phase of this project:  calendars and other merchandise that will help folks to keep dreams, resolutions and daily resolves/goals front and center.  Stay Tuned!
• Gratitude & Giving Back Theme:  In 2008 and 2009 I focused on a theme of 'gratitude' for all that I have and all that I am, and 'giving back', in four areas of my life:  1)  Walk 60-miles and raise nearly $6000 total in the 2008 and 2009 Washington, DC Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks (a top achievement that brought enormous joy in 2008 and 2009;  in 2010, rather than walking I am donating four days of my time to work nearly round that clock to take care of the DC 3-Day Walkers);  2)  Reduce my Carbon Footprint by recycling, reusing and reducing;  3)  Engage in Pre-Meditated Acts of Kindness in an effort to be consciously kind each day;  4)  Volunteer on a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm (one out of four gratitude resolutions that is a future 'To Do').  In 2010, all four resolutions are front and center on my 'To Do List' and the 'gratitude/giving back' theme continues!
• Creativity Theme:  I come full circle with this theme.  In 2005 when I launched my first blog and my I Resolve To . . . Column, my motto for the blog was 'Words And Pictures, Pictures And Words, A Creative Life Does Make.  My motto for my business, For The Record PPA, Inc. is 'Do What You Love, Love What You Do'.  Creativity is at the core of all that I do, whether on my blogs, in photos, writing, my home, or garden, so I intend to take steps in 2010 to nurture my creativity.  One project will be to revisit the Artist's Way, by Julia Cameron.  I completed her book and program in the 1990's and revisited at various points during the past decade.  In 2010, I plan to do the Artist's Way program with a beginner's sensibility.  I also intend to upgrade my portfolio's, blogs, websites and create an old fashioned scrapbook (I bought all the materials and started the scrapbook process as one of my 2009 Daily Resolves).
• Exercise:  I intend to create an exercise program in 2010 that enables me to exercise daily by mixing walks of varying lengths with swimming, tennis, weightlifting, gardening, and biking.  On average, I tend to do longer 30-60 + minute aerobic work-outs three to four days each week.  My goal is to stretch, do light Yoga, and lift free weights on the other days.  I love to exercise and participate in sports because they make me feel good, reduce stress, improve my mood, help me to maintain my ideal weight, and contribute to good health.  Exercise is a Lifetime Resolution that I intend to prioritize.
• Reading:  My goal in 2009 was to read 12 books.  I read nine and am in progress on nine others (I often read a number of books at once).  So, I read the equivalent of 12+ books and intend to finish the books that are in progress this winter, along with new titles later in the year!  I also intend to visit my favorite bookstores more often, maybe once each month.  I love bookstores as much as coffee shops - they're relaxing and fun and they spur creative new thoughts!
• Balance & Health:  I am a workaholic who is trying to climb on the wagon and stay on the wagon.  I created the I Resolve To . . . Challenge, in part, to devote more time to self-care.  Major surgery in 2008 made me realize that I am not much good to myself, or anyone else, if I don't take good care of 'me'.  I think a lot of people fall into this trap.  So, I devised a simple Challenge that enables participants to 'make time' for themselves and their priorities.  Some of my top resolutions centered around exercise, improved diet, adequate sleep, drinking water, taking vitamins, having fun, and reducing stress (Daily Resolves included in the seven categories noted above in the Challenge).  In 2010, I'm taking the I Resolve To . . . Challenge to the next level and will introduce a group of 'Resolutionistas' who are taking the Challenge with me.  Stay Tuned!

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 IResolve To . . . Group At Gather.Com.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

 

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

I Resolve To® . . . Take A Long Look Back At The Year & Proudly Celebrate My Accomplishments! - Day 364

What a year!  The journey wasn't always easy, but it was quite a ride.  I am energized and ready to blaze into 2010 with patience, passion and persistence toward my dreams!  There is something magical about reaching the end of a year and, in turn, the end of a calendar.  I have been flipping through my wall calendar, day book and journals this week in an effort to contemplate what I attempted to achieve and celebrate what I actually achieved.  My walk down memory lane gives me great hope for the future . . .

In a special year-end essay, I Resolve To . . . Resolutionista, Amanda Wyler, pointed out the importance of celebrating successes.  I wholeheartedly agree.  Tracking and joyfully acknowledging victories and accomplishments of every size and and stripe promotes happiness, lends purpose to life, and stokes the fire of momentum and enthusiasm.  Each victory builds on the next one like stepping stones to the stars and once you get a small taste of stardust, you want more and more.  And so it goes, on to the next dream and the next challenge, one day at a time, one small step at at a time until you finally reach your destination . . . and move beyond.

During the past five years, as I have studied and practiced what works and what doesn't work in resolution-making and resolution-keeping, I have identified three key components to success:  1)  Choose resolutions that generate intense passion and interest, so that you will stay committed and motivated.  2)  Do your homework and build a written plan with timelines, so that you can regularly track daily activities (by checking in every day, or every week).  3)  Take daily action!  Of course there is a lot more to it than that,  but if you keep these tips in mind, you will begin your journey with a comprehensive road map that removes guesswork (visit the Resolutionista Resources section of I Resolve To . . . for simple, common sense tips and strategies). 

With this in mind, I intend to 'Look Back & Celebrate The Victories', and use them as fuel for my inner fire, as part of my second annual 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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 2010!

In tracking my accomplishments, I avoid flow charts and dense grids.  While they might work for some people, I prefer my daily journal, wall calendar, and day book calendar - they make the tracking process more fun.  I have long used foil stars and stickers as a way to draw attention to (and quantify) my 'daily resolves'.  The trick to tracking progress is establishing a system that works for you and using it every day. 

Based on my annual 'look back' here are highlights of my 2009 effort to 'Be A Resolutionista By Making Resolutions, Keeping Resolutions And Enjoying The Journey:

• Daily Resolves:  My top resolution and primary project was to create 365 photo-resolutions as part of my I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  I completed and posted the final images this week in time for the New Year.  I am very proud of my 'Daily Resolves' because they enabled me to take small daily steps toward my dreams and priorities every single day in 2009 and provide a guide for 2010.  Based on feedback, they also inspired others!  I am working on the next phase of this project:  calendars and other merchandise that will help folks to keep dreams, resolutions and daily resolves/goals front and center.  Stay Tuned!
• Exercise:  One of my 'Lifetime Resolutions' and a longtime habit/activity that dates back to my early childhood is exercise (and sports).  I created my first blog partially in an effort to track my exercise resolution in 2005 (I exercised 80-percent of the time that year).  I have continued to track my exercise program each year since then, and in 2009 I exercised for an hour or more by walking, gardening, and swimming an average of three days each week.  Most days in 2009, I also stretched, did light Yoga, and worked out with free weights, so I exercised approximately 90-percent + of 2009.  In 2010, I'm shooting for a near-perfect score ;).  Perfection isn't one of my goals, but I am confident that I can improve my exercise program and will reap the benefits because I love to exercise and enjoy sports!
• Gratitude:  In 2008 and 2009 I focused on a theme of 'gratitude' for all that I have and all that I am, and 'giving back', in four areas of my life:  1)  Walk 60-miles and raise nearly $6000 total in the 2008 and 2009 Washington, DC Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks (a top achievement that brought enormous joy in 2008 and 2009;  in 2010, rather than walking I am donating four days of my time to work nearly round that clock to take care of the DC 3-Day Walkers);  2)  Reduce my Carbon Footprint by recycling, reusing and reducing;  3)  Engage in Pre-Meditated Acts of Kindness in an effort to be consciously kind each day;  4)  Volunteer on a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm (one out of four gratitude resolutions that is a future 'To Do').  In 2010, all four resolutions are front and center on my 'To Do List' and the 'gratitude/giving back' theme continues!
• Reading:  In recent years, I have neglected this wonderful activity because of the crush of work projects and other commitments.  My goal in 2009 was to read 12 books.  I read nine and am in progress on nine others (I often read a number of books at once).  So, I read the equivalent of 12+ books and intend to finish the books that are in progress this winter, along with new titles later in the year!
• Balance:  I am a workaholic who is trying to climb on the wagon and stay on the wagon.  I created the I Resolve To . . . Challenge, in part, to devote more time to self-care.  Major surgery in 2008 made me realize that I am not much good to myself, or anyone else, if I don't take good care of 'me'.  I think a lot of people fall into this trap.  So, I devised a simple Challenge that enables participants to 'make time' for themselves and their priorities.  Some of my top resolutions centered around exercise, improved diet, adequate sleep, drinking water, taking vitamins, having fun, and reducing stress.  In 2010, I'm taking the I Resolve To . . . Challenge to the next level and will introduce a group of 'Resolutionistas' who are taking the Challenge with me.  Stay Tuned!

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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Remember A Little Patience With Instructions Can Eliminate A Lot Of Trouble! - Day 363

Did you receive gadgets, electronics and other goodies during the holidays (cell phones are a great example) that mystify upon first glance?  Patience is not always my best virtue when it comes to instructions, but I find when I take the time to read the booklet that comes with the product before I get rolling, I often shorten my learning curve and eliminate a lot of frustrating problems.  With that in mind, I intend to apply some common sense and 'Read The Instructions', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Say Something Nice, Or Avoid Saying Anything At All! - Day 362

I intend to 'Avoid Gossip', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Work And Create In Peace and Solitude! - Day 361

I intend to 'Visit My Favorite Library', during my Holiday Vacation, 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Take Breaks & Get Adequate Rest! - Day 360

No matter how much you enjoy the Holiday Season, it can create stress and exhaustion.  With that in mind, I intend to 'Breathe, Relax, Breathe', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Enjoy A Warm & Cozy Christmas Day With Family! - Day 359

I intend to 'Carry Christmas In My Heart', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Enjoy Visions Of Sugarplums Dancing In My Head! - Day 358

I intend to 'Dream Sweet Dreams This Christmas Eve', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Let Loose And Enjoy The Holidays With The Enthusiasm Of A Child! - Day 357

I intend to 'Sing Christmas Carols With Gusto', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Carry Christmas In My Heart Year-Round! - Day 356

I intend to 'Say My Prayers', every 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Make The Most Of Winter Even Though I Adore Spring, Summer & Fall! - Day 355

With one to two feet of freshly fallen snow up and down the East Coast and points west, it pays to enjoy snow (or at least make the best of it!).  I readily admit that I am a warm-hot-weather-lover rather than a cold-weather-winter-person, but I don't relish the thought of being unhappy from December through March, so I work to fill my winter days with productive 'indoor' projects, so that I can head outdoors for all the activities I love, the first hint of Spring. 

With that in mind, I intend to 'Revel In The First Day Of Winter', (done!), 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Revel In The Spirit Of Holiday Giving! - Day 354

I intend to 'Give Gladly With No Expectations', not only material things, but most importantly, love and sincere actions, 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Shower Love And Affection On Beloved Furry Friends This Holiday Season! - Day 353

I intend to 'Shower Love And Affection On Beloved Furry Friends This Holiday Season', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Make Time For A Little Silly Fun During The Holidays! - Day 352

I intend to 'Revel In The Magic Of The Holiday Season', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Get Creative With Gingerbread! - Day 351

Getting outside my cooking comfort zone and trying new, fun resolutions like 'coloring Easter Eggs in April, and picking strawberries in May have put a smile on my face.  Playing more, working less and finding balance are top priorities and my 'fun' resolutions have been helping.  When I colored Easter Eggs I forced myself to set aside any notion of 'pefection' and simply have fun.  I had to do the same thing today with my Gingerbread House because not too long after I finished construction, it fell apart!  It was pretty while it lasted and now it is in the freezer.  While it doesn't look like much, it does taste good and I plan to savor (and share) the walls and roof in small bits (moderation!) in weeks to come.

With that in mind, I intend to 'Make A Gingerbread House', (done!), 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Continue Working Through My Daily Cleaning & Organization Projects! - Day 350

I recently wrote about my annual 'New Year Cleaning Projects' and love of a starting the New Year off  with a tidy house (it's like doing Spring Cleaning early).  I'm working through my list of 'To Do's' between now and the end of the year and my car is front and center on the list.  I intend to 'Start The New Year Off With A Spotless Car', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Elevate 'Creativity' To Top Priority Status In The Coming New Year! - Day 349

In recent months, I have been brainstorming ideas and planning my 2010 strategy for my New Year Resolutions and theme for the year.  Healthy eating and exercise will continue as top priorities and I plan to make my 'gratitude' resolutions a daily focus, as well (protecting the environment, practicing premeditated acts of kindness, donating my time and money to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk in Washington, DC, and finally volunteering at a nearby Virginia Horse Rescue Farm, a goal that has eluded my attention for two years, are all on the 'To Do List' for the New Year).  All are Lifetime Resolutions that bring great joy and reward to my days.  In 2010, I also plan to overlay 'Creativity' as a theme for my own personal I Resolve To . . . Challenge:  365 Resolutions For Health & Happiness.  Writing and photography have long been at the core of my happiness and I plan to keep them front and center in my life - it makes sense to be more 'conscious' about making creativity a priority each day.

In coming weeks, I also will unveil some new projects and cast of characters who are taking the Challenge here at IResolveTo.Com and I am releasing an I Resolve To . . . Challenge Calendar Series to help folks stay accountable (I love adding stars to my calendars to celebrate my daily victories - it's a longtime habit that dates back to the first year of my blog!).  One of I Resolve To's . . . talented Resolutionsitas has even offered to create a mascot.  I am so excited . . . Stay Tuned!

In the meantime, I intend to 'Follow My Inner Muse Into The New Year', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Eat My Fruits & Veggies This Holiday Season! - Day 348

It is so easy to get carried away with cookies, candy and rich holiday food, but I plan to think before I eat this month.  I don't intend to abstain from eating treats - if I tell myself 'no cookies', I will think only of cookies.  Instead, I intend to have my my cookies in moderation and make sure to mix in plenty of fruits and vegetables during mealtime, so that I'm getting my required daily servings. 

With this strategy in mind, I intend to 'Make Healthy Eats, Not Sugary Treats, A Priority This Holiday Season', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Do My Part To Protect The Environment In The Coming New Year! - Day 347

In 2008 and 2009, as part of my 'gratitude' and 'giving back' resolution theme, I worked to educate myself about how to protect the environment and take small daily steps toward that end.  I have made three of four of the 'gratitude' resolutions that I chose to focus on permanent parts of my life that will continue in 2010 and beyond:

1. Walk 60 miles for the Breast Cancer 3-Day - Susan G. Komen For The Cure - in Washington, DC, October 3-5, 2008, October 9-11, 2009, and serve as a walk 'volunteer' in October 2010 for four days (I plan to walk again in 2011)  I raised nearly $6000 for Breast Cancer Research!
2. Volunteer at a Virginia Horse Rescue Farm (A firm 'To Do' for 2010).
3. Learn about how to combat Global Warming and take action - more action to come!
4. Engage in PreMeditated acts of kindness - more action to come!

Since the end of 2009 is near, it is time to review what I have achieved and plan new 'To Do's' for 2010.  I'm starting my plotting and brainstorming for 2010 resolutions for the environment this week.  With that in mind, I intend to 'Give The Environment A Holiday Gift, Recycle, Reuse, Reduce', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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 lunch to work at least two days each week - you'll save money and reduce 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 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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

 

Earth Day - April 22, 2009

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

I Resolve To® . . . Start The New Year Off With A Clean House! - Day 346

It is an longtime personal tradition to begin my New Year with a clean house.  I adore having a spotless, clutter-free home on January 1, as much as I love the 'blank-slate' nature of the New Year.  Cleaning, de-cluttering and organizing, little-by-little, throughout 2009 have been top resolutions.  I tackled my office early in the year - cleaning, organizing and de-cluttering - and I am happy to say my work space continues to be tidy and clutter free.  I am happy that I have also made good on my promise to stay current with my overall cleaning chores (I still need to work on my bedroom closet and the utility room, but they are not disasters, so I am looking forward to tackling them in the near future). 

These resolutions were prompted by frustration at the end of 2008 . . . I was behind with cleaning projects, clutter, holiday cards, shopping, and a long, long list of other tasks.  I made resolutions in all of those categories (and more) and have made good on them, one small step at a time, one day at a time throughout the year!  Staying ahead of the curve was a major part of my focus and strategy in 2009 - planning, planning, and more planning, have helped me to stay on track and enabled me to live a calmer, more balanced life.  Of course, flexibility (when plans fell apart) also helped me throughout the year.  It feels good to be on track and caught up.  I plan to continue this trend well into 2010 and beyond by making 'staying ahead of the curve' a permanent Lifetime Resolution!

With that in mind, I intend to 'Do A Major House Cleaning For The New Year', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Work To Be Consciously Kind To Myself And Others! - Day 345

Being consiously kind is an on-going, permanent resolution that I began in 2008.  My resolution theme in last year was 'gratitude' and giving back - conscious acts of kindess was one of four goals that I pursued throughout the year (and continue to pursue in an on-going way).  With that in mind, I intend to 'Engage In Premeditated Acts Of Kindess', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Strive To Live In The Moment As Much As Possible! - Day 344

I intend to 'Live Today, Not Tomorrow', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Do My Part To Help Families Facing Hardhip This Holiday Season! - Day 343

 

With the recession causing hardship for so many families across the country it is more important than ever to lend a hand.  I intend to 'Donate To A Food Bank', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Think Before I Buy! - Day 342

I have to admit this 'Daily Resolve' is actually pretty easy for me because I typically do not buy new clothing on impulse.  That said, the Holiday Season is upon us and I want to avoid getting carried away with my shopping expeditions.  Other resolutions this year included saving cash for holiday gifts and buying them early - check and check, both are done!  I would like to maintain these practical, frugal spending habits in 2010, so this serves as a good reminder.   I intend to 'Buy New Clothing Out Of Necessity, Not Whim', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Build A Plan That Enables Me To Continue To Take Small, Daily Steps Toward My Dreams! - Day 341

I intend to 'Build A Resolution Roadmap', that enables me to chug steadily into the New Year, 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Pursue My Dreams, Resolutions And Daily Goals With Patience, Passion And Persistence! - Day 340

 

Making and keeping New Year Resolutions requires patience and the mindset of a distance runner.  Well laid plans often fly out the window and tasks and projects often take much longer than first anticipated.  With that in mind, "passion, patience and persistence" continues to be my mantra going into the New Year!  I intend to 'Be Willing To Start Over And Over To Succeed', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Remember That Comfort Food Can Be Healthy With The Right Ingredients! - Day 339

 
Winter and cold weather invite cravings for comfort food, but that doesn't mean it has to be rich and laden with fat and calories.  With the right ingredients - like lots and lots of fresh veggies - soup from scratch can be both tasty and healthy.  With that in mind, I intend to 'Make Homemade Soup', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Remember It's The Little Things That Often Count The Most This Holiday Season! - Day 338

"I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year."

  Charles Dickens - From QuoteGarden.Com

I intend to 'Delight In The Simple Joys Of The Holiday Season', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Tune Into The Holiday Spirit! - Day 337

"Christmas, children, is not a date.  It is a state of mind." 

Mary Ellen Chase - From QuoteGarden.Com

It might sound silly, but I really enjoy holiday music in stores the day after Halloween.  In fact, I purposely tune into 'all Christmas music' stations at home and in the office, and stock my car with Christmas discs shortly after Halloween.  The music makes me happy and promotes a good mood.  I love the Holiday Season because I am able to spend quality time with my family in the Midwest and work slows down enough for me to take a few weeks off for rest, relaxation and play.  The spiritual side of Christmas, along with wonderful opportunities to give and share non-materially throughout the Holiday Season are equally important to me. 

Since 2008, when I chose the resolution theme of 'gratitude and giving back', I have worked to "keep Christmas in my heart" year-round. That resolution is a permanent 'Lifetime Resolution', as I continue to 'give back' in several areas of my life, which include being intentionally kinder, doing more to help the environment environment and donating my time and money to promote breast cancer research (all of which bring joy and reward to my life).  Of course, my mindfulness and good intentions do fly out the window at times.  There are frustrating days, hours that I am full of doubt and moments that I am crabby, but through it all, I try to apply a positive, optimistic tint to my glasses (they are not rose-colored, I am far too realistic and pragmatic for a pair like that . . . I like to think they are a nice soft shade of turquoise blue). 

I firmly believe joy and happiness are by-products of my state of mind, my focus and my determination to 'do what I love and love what I do (my longtime mantra in both my business and personal life).  I try not to stew over unhappy moments and I definitely don't chase happiness, as my time is better spent on other pursuits. 

With that in mind, this Holiday Season, I am opening my eyes, ears and senses to wonderful moments that are simple and free.  For instance, I intend to 'Rock With Holiday Tunes', every 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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 the simple 'Daily Resolves' that are helping me to rock with holiday tunes and delight in the simple joys of the Holiday Season':

1. Organize my tasks and build a realistic schedule to reduce the stress that comes with the crush of holiday crowds, shopping, parties, and other activities.
2. Remind myself that the most precious moments are often free, such as cuddling, laughing and sharing with loved ones.
3. Be kind to me this holiday season:  Pamper myself with adequate rest, relaxation, healthy food, and exercise (looong walks!).
4. Remember that generosity doesn't have to cost a lot of money:  I can donate good used clothing and food; volunteer a few hours of my time or my special skills to causes that I care about; smile at strangers; and be kind on the roadways, in stores and restaurants.
5. Let the true, spiritual meaning of Christmas shine brightly in my heart throughout the Holiday Season.

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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

 

 

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

I Resolve To® . . . Walk, Walk, Walk In One Of My Favorite Cities! - Day 336

I intend to 'Delight In The Sights And Sounds Of New York City', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Be Curious And Adventurous By Rail! - Day 335

I intend to 'Explore By Train', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Enjoy Special Moments With Loved Ones! - Day 334

I intend to 'Smile And Connect This Holiday Season', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Step Up My Work Outs, Watch What I Eat And Avoid Holiday Weight Gain! - Day 333

I intend to 'Burn Holiday Calories', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Have Fun Writing My Annual Holiday Cards! - Day 332

One of my favorite holiday activities is preparing holiday cards for friends, family and colleagues.  Some years I include a note and photos with the card, other years I simply send a card with a brief update.  Regardless, it's a wonderful opportunity to reach out to the people who inhabit my life (near and far) and wish them the very best during the holiday season and, of course, the New Year.  

Last January, I created a holiday strategy enabled me to save cash for holiday gifts, make plane reservations and prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas well in advance of the November-December crush.  I stuck with my plan and my gifts are purchased (almost completely with cash), my holiday cards went in the mail this weekend, my plane reservations are set for me and the little redhead (BJ my 20-year-old tabby cat), and I am so looking forward to the holidays.  I started listening to Christmas music the day after Halloween and I discovered that Lifetime is running holiday movies for the next month.  Guess where my remote will be parked when I have time for a movie or two!  

With that in mind, I intend to 'Send Holiday Cheer To Friends And Loved Ones', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Make The Most Of Holiday Feasts The Second Time Around! - Day 331

 

One of the best parts of holiday meals is the leftovers.  It's no secret that cooking is not among my passions, but I did proudly make a small turkey this year along with favorite fixings, and a few new dishes.  One of my fall resolutions is to experiment with squash.  I baked acorn squash on Thanksgiving (delicious) and I have several other varieties of squash sitting on my counter, soon to be transformed into tasty dishes.  Getting out of my 'cooking comfort zone' is another resolution.  While I don't spend a lot of time in the kitchen, I do try to 'spend quality time' in the kitchen when I do cook.  In addition to experimenting with squash, papaya and new veggie recipes, I think I'll try my hand at Christmas cookies in December.  Sounds like fun!

The cooking is done, the kitchen is clean, and in coming days I intend to 'Savor Every Single Bite Of Leftovers', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Count My Blessings! - Day 330

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." 

John Fitzgerald Kennedy - From QuoteGarden.Com

 
I intend to 'Be Grateful For All That I Have, All That I Am, This Thanksgiving', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Add A Little Beauty To My Week! - Day 329

I intend to 'Brighten The House With Fresh Cut Flowers', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Try A New Fruit! - Day 328

I intend to 'Experiment With Papaya', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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

I Resolve To® . . . Give From The Heart During The Holiday Season! - Day 327

"I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys." 

Charles Dickens - From QuoteGarden.Com

 
I intend to 'Generously Share The Holiday Spirit', 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 with 'daily resolves'.  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.   Get going on your 2010 New Year Resolutions with the new I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise:  I Resolve To . . . Worksheet & Promise.

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

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