January 2007

5 New Year’s Resolutions for the Entire Family

By Abbey Khan

I bet you make New Year’s Resolutions every year, and every year you break them. But this year’s going to be different. How? Because these top 5 New Year’s Resolutions aren’t just about you. Since they involve your entire family, you’re more likely to be successful. So here they are:

Join a Charity. Find something that warms your heart and donate your time. Get your kids to volunteer also, this will help open up their minds and see the world in a different light. Check out www.stepupwomensnetwork.com to see if this charity is right for you.

Eat Healthy. Don’t just tell your kids that vegetables and fruits are good for them. Lead by example. Also, make sure everyone is eating their three meals a day. And no, coffee does not count as a meal. You’ll really notice the positive changes by eating healthy, because an apple a day really does keep the doctor away. Find great recipes in Feed Your Family a Fast, Healthy Meal on $10 a Day at www.amazon.com.

Make Family Time. This doesn’t mean that you sit around and talk about your feelings—that can get a little cheesy. Do something that seems effortless and that everyone can enjoy, like preparing dinner together, having a game night, movie night, or even going out on a shopping excursion (this is especially great for mothers and daughters).

Try Something New. Learn a new language with your husband or teenager, take flying lessons, or learn how to sew. You’ll show your kids that’s its never too late to learn. Log onto www.aeroclubvny.com to learn about flying lessons.

Exercise Together. This doesn’t mean hitting the gym 7 days a week. For goodness sake, you live in L.A., take advantage of the beautiful weather. Go hiking or roller-blading with your kids, or take a run on the beach with your husband—either way you’ll feel energized and youthful, and you’ll be back in shape in no time. Log onto www.latrails.com to find your next outdoor excursion.

These New Year’s Resolutions are just to get you started. I’m sure you have quite a few in mind that you want to tackle. No matter what your resolution, partner up with family members to keep your resolutions and create a lasting bond.