Amanda and Patrick

Today’s Resolution: Find a “Mom & Pop”

Today's Resolution: Find mom and pop

Do you know what Zots are? Button candy? Ever don a pair of wax lips? There are some great retro candy products to be found that are unique if you look for them in the right places. Sometimes you can get lucky in a local “mom & pop” corner store. There are even online sites now that specialize in these items. Get some of those childhood favorites and share with a friend. They are a great conversation starter or a fun gift.

Today’s Resolution: Make it “a Very GOOD Day”

Make a conscious effort to be positive ALL day today. If you happen to be a “Twilight Zone” fan (the originals), you may recall an episode (“It’s a Good Life”) where there is a very uncomfortable tension among some people in a town because if they think or comment with any negative thoughts in the presence of a young boy, the child has the power to make the pessimists disappear or transform them into something horrible. Try to catch yourself in negativity, and turn it around. Now negative thoughts won’t banish you, but make it “a very good day” just in case!

Today’s Resolution: Make Your Move

Put a little yoga into practice by learning some basic moves (or at least be able to talk about it). Take a beginner’s class or have a friend or family member teach you some simple poses. There are many people who use yoga as part of their exercise routine, as an outlet, or as a social activity. Be able to answer the question, “What’s Updog?” the next time you are asked!

Today’s Resolution: Play Mind Games

Many studies have shown that an active mind may stave off the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Logic and problem-solving skills can be practiced daily with mind challenges such as crossword puzzles, Sudoku, riddles, and many other fun and games. Look in your local newspaper or go online and resolve to solve!

Today’s Resolution: See What’s in Your Wallet

Today's Resolution: See Whats in Your Wallet

Evaluate your credit cards periodically. Check interest rates with other companies and be sure your company is giving you the most competitive rate. Compare perks you receive, and see if you are being charged any extra fees such as an annual maintenance fee. Sometimes you can negotiate with companies for a better deal either on interest rates or perks; you might be able to get a company to waive an annual fee. Loyalty to a company is fine, but sometimes making a change can net you a better offer in the long term.

Today’s Resolution: Engage in Child’s Play

Some of the most relaxing things we can do as adults is to take a break and engage in an activity that will distract us or temporarily take our mind off of our problems. Children might be on to something when it comes to relaxation. Play a video game, blow some bubbles, grab a coloring book, doodle, etc. A local playground or your own backyard might provide an opportunity to swing or seesaw. Feel the wind in your hair; leave inhibitions behind. Playmate not included.

Today’s Resolution: Pass the Word

Passwords are a necessary evil to unlock access to countless accounts we use daily. We are reminded to use passwords that are not too personal (birthdates or children’s names) and cautioned not to re-use the same password for multiple accounts. Some accounts require passwords be changed every 30 -60 days. This can be an annoyance. Resetting passwords is likely to add even more confusion over trying to keep it all straight. Writing passwords down has its own set of problems too, as you don’t want the compilation to wind up in the wrong hands.

Keep some core words or phrases consistent but not exactly the same. Have a theme. Use key numbers and symbols if you need to include these. When you write them down, use cryptic abbreviations that only you can decipher for the type of account the password is for. And don’t use “Password” or “User 123” for accounts.

Today’s Resolution: Get a Shoe Shine

Survey your closet today and take a close look at your footwear. Take a damp cloth to sneakers that look a little dusty. Use a dry cotton cloth on scuffed up dress shoes or break out the polish. Inspect heels for intense wear or looseness. Look for multiple types of shoes. If there are 3 pairs of the same type of shoe, consider getting rid of one of them. Try shoes on you haven’t worn in a while to see if they still fit comfortably. Give yourself a shoe shine

Today’s Resolution: Go from Rags to Riches and an Empty Closet

Today's Resolution: Rags to Riches

Got old stuff? Concentrate on donating, selling, or purging things today. Donate no longer needed and gently worn clothes to local charities for the benefit of others. Sell items through a yard sale or donate them to others holding a yard sale. Even if you throw things away, you will always come out ahead either with some extra cash in your pocket or newfound space!

Today’s Resolution: Collect Collectibles

For some people it might be coins, and for others it might be teapots. If you have some type of “collection,” re-examine what you have and find a spot to display it for others to see. If you currently have it out in the open, investigate the possibility of adding to your collection. Check popular websites like eBay or Craig’s list and others. Anything rare in your collection? Find some price lists or comparative items for sale. You may have your hands on a very collectible collectible!