Have a Bright New Year With Local-Centric Resolutions

Popular resolutions are easier to keep when you stay close to home.

It's easier to stay focused on goals when you don't have to go far to accomplish them. Social networking site 43 Things' top ten user-generated resolutions can be found on most people's lists for 2011. Here are ways to achieve your goals for the new year utilizing resources close to home. 1. Lose weight. There are infinite possibilities for weight loss locally. Try any of the local gyms for the typical workout, but if you find it difficult to stay focused on a treadmill for a half hour, take advantage of the outdoor exercise opportunities such as the Oakmont walking trail or hiking trails at Boyce Park and Dark Hollow Woods. Check out Steel City Rowing in Verona for a good full-body workout. 2. Be happy. It's easier said than done, right? …

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The Balancing Act

A Holiday Lesson In Letting Go

Letting kids help is a lesson in letting go of control, but mother of three Regina says it's well worth the effort.

It was Christmas Eve Eve, the name my kids have given December 23rd. I couldn't put off wrapping presents any longer. My two youngest wanted to help. I hesitated. I wanted to encourage them, and I wanted them to realize how much I appreciate their desire to pitch in. At the same time, I was in a hurry and, quite frankly, I wanted presentable presents. I thought back to the Christmas when my roommate and I wrapped gifts together. Shiny, heavy, glittery wrapping papers. Ribbon hanging in spiral curls. Metallic bows and velvet bows. Perfectly inked gift tags. Meticulous hospital corners. We had presents worthy of a full-page Christmas ad — or Carabella's window! Of course, we also didn't have kids, husbands, outrageously demanding jobs or …

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