March 2023

Today’s Resolution: Detox and Defrag

Computer not cooperating with you lately? When was the last time you gave the hard drive a good cleaning? Many people set up their computers, laptops, and tablets to automatically consolidate and clean up files. However, only you know which programs and files are most necessary to keep and which can be removed. High resolution images take up quite a bit of space; you may want to consider putting them on a flash drive or deleting altogether. Do the same for your email accounts. Only keep what you need, and if you need it, back it up!

Today’s Resolution: Pull the Plug

Most of us are fairly conscious of our electricity use. Switching to more efficient light bulbs, using more energy efficient appliances, and turning off items when not in use have become routine. However, there are ways to take conservation even further. Take a look around your home and identify “vampire power” that is being wasted. This is the energy that is being used for items that are plugged in but not necessarily in use. Unplug anything that does not require instant or ongoing energy. Make it a habit to pull the plug on items such as toasters, coffee makers, lamps, etc. Get unplugged and see if it makes a difference.

Image source: Functoruser on Flickr

Today’s Resolution: Go Looney for Toons

When was the last time you watched a cartoon? Family Guy or The Simpsons doesn’t count for this one. Spend a few minutes finding a children’s cartoon and really watching it. Look for something classic: Bugs Bunny, Tom and Jerry, or Popeye. You’ll be surprised at how many of these can be aimed at adults in subtle ways through clever word play or intelligent jokes. You don’t need children in the room to get something from a cartoon. It’s no accident there are more and more cartoons targeting adult audiences. Enjoy a few minutes of brainless time…or is it?

Image Source: LaserGuided on Flickr

Today’s Resolution: Celebrate a Birthday

Every day is someone’s birthday. In honor of that, celebrate by treating yourself to a cupcake or slice of cake. There are many bakeries that specialize in just cupcakes and cakes, and there are even television shows devoted to the delectable confections. If gourmet and designer cakes are beyond your budget or taste, bake your own and decorate as elaborately as you can. Out to lunch or dinner? Tell the server it is your birthday and you may be treated to a complimentary dessert! Caution: You may be surrounded by a swarm of staff singing “Happy Birthday!” to you!

Today’s Resolution: Fold Some Magic

Add some challenge and fun to folding towels by creating origami style animals. While origami is traditionally done with paper, hotels sometimes will present origami towels created in the shapes of dogs and other critters to amuse guests. For some interesting results, check out buzzfeed.com/donnad/15-examples-of-towel-origami. There are many sites offering step by step instructions and videos. They make a great touch for a gift (beach towel with a beach bag filled with goodies). You may need to practice first. It’s not as easy as it looks!

Source: MinneMom on Flickr

Today’s Resolution: Wash in Cold

Be gentle with your clothes the next time you send them through the wash cycle; use cold water. Warm or hot water tends to fade items more quickly and can be more costly. For heavily soiled items, you can soak them first and rinse under water before putting them in with the load. Not convinced? Try it and see if you can tell the difference.

Today’s Resolution: Engage in Pillow Talk

One of the niceties of going on vacation is indulging in luxuries you might not normally get to enjoy. Even something as simple as complimentary soaps and shampoo can be enough to make you feel special. Consider adding that same kind of special touch the next time you have an overnight guest by placing a few chocolates or other candies on their pillow. Add a note: “We’re so glad you came!” No overnight guests? Extend the gesture to your spouse, children, or significant other. The effect will go far when they are not expecting it.

Image source: This cute pillow set by restintheword on Etsy

Today’s Resolution: Fill ‘er Up

Take a look in your medicine cabinet, refrigerator, pantry, or even garage for products that can either be consolidated or can be replenished with a “refill” item. Save space by combining the two half-filled ketchup bottles on the door of the refrigerator. Restaurants do this! Check for economy saving refill containers for items such as window cleaner or hand soap the next time you go shopping. Fill the gas tank in the lawnmower so it’s ready to go for the next time you cut the grass; maybe you can get someone to do that chore for you!

Today’s Resolution: Embrace Nostalgia

Have you ever unexpectedly caught a scent in the wind that took you back to a place in your mind that floods you with fond memories? Maybe it’s the perfume your first girlfriend wore, that locker room smell after a big game, or mom’s home cooking. Has a song you heard today reminded you of a good time in your life? Find a few moments today to dig out that old yearbook, photo album, journal, or whatever contains some visual reminders of happy days. And don’t be filled with sorrow over the passing of those days; instead, be grateful you had them.

Image source: Quasimood on Flickr

Today’s Resolution: Memorize a Limerick

Limericks are nonsensical, entertaining, rhythmic, and clever. They are 4 or 5 line poems that fulfill several criteria: the first line is usually about a person or place (“There was an old man with a beard” ), there is a rhyme pattern, and they have a sing-song rhythm. Find a few to memorize; Edward Lear and Ogden Nash may provide some good examples. Better yet, write one about yourself. Caution: Watch out for the naughty ones!

Image source: Hanataro on Flickr