Daily Resolution: Think About Winter

The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day of the year, but has been traditionally commemorated in a variety of ways by different cultures throughout the world for centuries. The burning of the Yule log, the masked parading of mummers, and even sacrifice in ancient days have been part of the seasonal rituals. Find your own way to celebrate the official change in season from autumn to winter by starting your own tradition. Bake a batch of cookies, have a hot chocolate party, or grab a blanket and cozy up with someone in front of a fire as you toast to “Old Man Winter.”

Daily Resolution: Press Play

Customize a  “play list” for you or your family. Before you start an internet hunt for classic tunes, check with others who may have a trove of medleys you could borrow to create your own compilation. Fill the room and set the mood. There are also many free radio venues that can be accessed through the internet which categorize holiday music if your particular tastes run in a specific genre like classics, children’s songs, jazzy, gospel, etc.

Daily Resolution: Watch Some Classic Movies

Make some time to watch a classic movie with friends or family. For example, during the holidays, some list toppers include: “A Christmas Story,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” “Prancer,” and “Elf”. Get a television schedule to see what is playing and plan for a popcorn night. Many of these annual favorites can also be found in local stores, online, or can be rented. Already have your own copy? Dust it off and take a stroll with Jimmy Stewart through Bedford Falls, sing a song with Bing Crosby, or appreciate the innocence of Buddy the Elf…just don’t shoot your eye out, kid!

Daily Resolution: Share a Story

With the growing popularity of e-readers, electronic books have prompted even more dust on our bookshelf volumes of literature. Whether you have joined the e-text generation or not, there is still something to be said for a hard copy book, and they offer something personal when they are inscribed for a special person with a thoughtful message and dated. Choose a book from your own collection or get one from a secondhand bookstore that is one of your favorite titles. Inscribe it, date it, sign, give it. The story it tells will outlast any e-text.

Daily Resolution: Give Yourself an Adult Fieldtrip

Cultural activities are often as close as our own backyard. Museums, theaters, and music venues are more accessible than we may realize; you do not have to go to the “big city” to find some fabulous exhibits or performances. Check out what your local community has to offer. Even if you live in a rural area, you may be able to get inexpensive tickets to the local high school’s production of “Grease,” or take in a local music talent at a nearby restaurant. An art gallery might be poised and ready to welcome you with artwork by someone you know!