All Things Gwen

It’s the perfect time to do something different …

1. Start a family tradition. We all have favorite childhood memories. Fun stuff like pizza on Fridays, bagels and donuts on Saturdays, ice cream after each winning soccer game … and even $5 for every “A” on the report card. This year, start some new, creative traditions. Remember, they don’t always have to include “junk” food and sweets treats. For example, call grandparents or family members on speaker phone once a week. Or, hang a dry erase board in the kitchen and write special family accomplishments.

2. Challenge yourself. Do you have a bucket list? You know, things you want to accomplish in this lifetime? If you haven’t done so already, write it down and make it happen. There are a lot of interesting things to try — like a yoga or pottery. Check your town’s recreational department for upcoming classes.

3. Set a new goal each month. This year, pick 12 things and stick to them. Your goals may include cleaning the garage; trying new recipes; using coupons whenever shopping or saving extra money for a family vacation. Whatever your goal, write it down, and stick to it. It may be helpful to do some online research to help you get organized or get started.

4. Organize your pictures. Whether you have a stack of printed pictures — or a ton saved to your computer — get organized! With online resources like Snapfish, you can create flipbooks with captions or print out pictures. Prices vary, but are affordable.

5. Make health and fitness a regular thing. Most people are great at making New Year’s resolutions, but have a hard time sticking to them. If you’ve always wanted to get back into shape, do it! One of the biggest things to remember is that results won’t come quickly — and it’s going to be hard work. Start off with small, manageable goals. For example, workout every Monday to get your week and routine off to a good start. Then, add more challenging activities and additional goals. It may help to work out with a partner.

6. Plan a “girls night in.” Nothing beats time with friends. Make a list of your closest friends — and friends you haven’t seen for some time — and schedule a time to get together. Give them a call or send an Evite and have them over. Get creative — consider hosting a pot luck, game night or book exchange. You could even ask each person to bring a guest.

7. Read a new book and magazine. There are a ton out there. For example, Money, Every Day with Rachel Ray, and Southern Living offer great ideas and inspiration. For book ideas, try a book on your local bookstore’s Book Club list, or ask your friends what they’re reading.

8. Teach your kids how to make their favorite foods. Whether it’s French toast or lasagna, teach your kids how to cook. It’s a great way to spend time together. Before you know it, you’ll have an assistant eager to help. One day, you may even have a personal chef!

9. Give back to the community. Set a good example and teach your kids the importance of helping others in need. You may want to donate clothes you don’t wear anymore or send care packages to soldiers overseas. You could even participate in awareness and fundraising walks such as Walk Now for Autism or the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life — and get in shape at the same time.

10.Go Green. Be “green” — and get your family onboard. It’s easy. Turn the lights off when leaving the room, limit showers to five minutes and reuse jars as storage containers. Use both sides of a piece of paper and recycle whenever possible. There are a lot of ways to be good to the environment. For more information, go online to Worldwatch Institute.

A version of this article was published in South Jersey Mom magazine. Photo by The Nameless.