It's that time of year when people make resolutions about everything from dieting to budgeting to watching less television. But resolutions don't have to be about deprivation. This year, why not focus on resolutions that enhance the quality of life for your family, your community and yourself?
Find More Family Time
With hectic schedules of work, school and extracurricular activities, it's harder than ever to find time to spend with the people you love most. So resolve this year to put family togetherness higher on your priority list.
A cornerstone of family time is dinnertime, so set up a family dinner night for as many evenings as your schedule permits. Invite the kids into the kitchen to help chop vegetables, taste-test sauces, toss the salad and set the table. Once you've settled into the meal, encourage everyone to talk about their day — what went well, what didn't, their plans for the rest of the week.
Also consider:
Making a dinner jar. Have the kids write their favorite meals on slips of paper, and once or twice a week draw for a special dinner.
Featuring an international dinner each month, and using it as an opportunity to learn to prepare new foods, and to learn about other cultures. Make your table setting reflect the country you're featuring.
Creating a family cookbook that everyone can help make. Organize it traditionally, by food categories, or by family member. Let each family member choose the content and prepare and decorate a section for a truly personalized touch.
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