PERSONAL RENOVATION

New Year, New Changes
When it comes to making changes at the beginning of a new year, the word “renovation” may top the more traditional “resolution.” It’s too easy to resolve to do something and then let it slide after a few weeks or even a few days. But, beginning a renovation seems almost monumental. A home renovation often requires tearing down walls, reconstructing certain areas, and adding fresh coats of paint. It’s difficult to just stop in the middle and fail to follow through. So, applying a similar concept to a personal renovation could result in more dramatic changes. The road to change often does start with a major overhaul, breaking down bad habits and building up new ones.

New in 2009
Several occurrences toward the end of 2008, led Karen to desire her own personal renovation in 2009. Health issues with several family members, along with a few, recent inspirational conversations, have encouraged her to make a few changes in her lifestyle. Exercise, maintaining a personal renovation sketchbook, and healthier eating are three of her top goals for the new year.

Take the Plunge
Exercising more probably tops the list as far as new year’s resolutions go. Usually, the momentum only lasts so long before the excitement wears off. So, Karen set out to find an exercise or sport that would be fun instead of tedious. Swimming seemed to fit the bill. After a bit of research, she found several YMCAs in her area, most of which had swimming pools. Now, she’s given herself the dreaded task of finding a bathing suit. The incentive lies in the promise of a healthier lifestyle.

Inspired by Kids
During a recent Fanciful Flights workshop for kids, the boys in the class finished much quicker than the girls. It seems they thought that a workshop called “Fanciful Flights” must surely have involved making something that actually flew. And, since there were no winged creatures or airplanes in sight, they entertained themselves with sketching and cartooning. This led to the discussion of a sketchbook workshop in the future. The kids were all for it, and Karen was left with the inspiration to keep a motivational sketchbook of her own. She has been making sketches based on her goals for 2009.

A Chance Meeting
A push toward healthier eating was inspired by Kim Bensen, a weight loss author and the creator of Kim’s Light Bagels http://kimslightbagels.com/. It was during a recent TV appearance on WFSB’s Better CT , that Karen met Kim. She learned of Kim’s remarkable story, the weight loss journey in which Kim lost over 200 pounds, and the product that has made bagels once again part of a healthy diet.

So, jump on board! Make 2009 a year of renovations and changes that you can stick with!