I am actually proud of myself as I made a mid-year resolution to read more and so far I have kept it. This must be a good sign that my New Year Resolutions have a chance of lasting more than two weeks.

Of course there are the standard resolutions to eat healthier, exercise more, etc., etc., but this year I have two specific resolutions that will take first place.

1. To cook more ... not so much that I won't dine out as much because the reality is we will continue to eat out, but because I really enjoy cooking. Perhaps if I cook because I like it and not because it is "my duty," our family will both not eat out as much and be inclined to eat healthier. We'll see.

2. I want to be more positive about everything. I think today's society gives us many reasons to be grumpy and discouraged--the economy, politics, fast food, busy schedules--and on and on and on. So even though I don't intend to be obnoxious or fake about the true hardships of people around me, I hope to be thankful for the things that are good.