First of all, let's call them intentions, not resolutions. The latter has such a bummer vibe to it, while the former sounds very zen. And secondly, how 'bout making them only for the month of January, not for the whole darn year? That way we can regroup in 30 days if things aren't working out. There. I'm glad we settled those details. Now on to the intentions.
Do something crafty, just for crafty's sake. When was the last time you took on a fun project purely for the pleasure of it? Remember the days when an empty egg carton or toilet paper roll meant hours of artsy enjoyment? In 2010 I had such fun making Halloween costumes and tissue pom poms, and now I think a sewing circle with Elizabeth and Rebecca is what the Craft Doctor ordered.
Experiment with at least one bright, vibrant, nourishing food experience. For me this will take the form of trying a new recipe--I received some fabulous vegetarian cookbooks from Santa and can't wait to test my hand with ingredients like tempeh and collard greens. But I'd be happy just to sample a new cuisine, too. I hear Ethiopian food is divine!
Get some color action going! I was packing for a trip last week and realized I own approximately ten gray sweaters. And while I'm not going to start dressing like the Skittles rainbow anytime soon, my discovery did lead me to pick up a sweet cherry red coin purse for organizing my receipts. Yay for baby steps, right?! Now you tell me: What are your January 2011 intentions?
Images: Martha Stewart Living.
I too am in desperate need of color. Between my grays and blacks...I think I may have you beat. Here's to a bright 2011.
thetimeswilltell.blogspot.com
Posted by: Erica | January 04, 2011 at 07:10 AM
I love your resolution to play with color.
My boyfriend did my laundry the other day and handed me a giant stack of black dresses, shirts, tights, and skirts... he called me out and told me I might want to expand my color repetoire!
Posted by: Kate {DomestiKatedLife} | January 04, 2011 at 07:29 AM
I like your idea of intentions instead of resolutions. I was struggling with that one as well. I also ended my 2011 list with the idea of taking a few more fashion risks. I'm always way too predictable in all black.
Posted by: Emma @ The Marion House Book | January 04, 2011 at 08:19 AM
"Intentions" - love it. I'm trying out the new recipe action too! Got a new dutch oven for christmas, going to try it out :)
Posted by: Katherine {flower & honey} | January 04, 2011 at 08:22 AM
Ann, you are *so* smart to make monthly intentions and see what sticks. I've had Ethiopian once and loved it - go with peeps who don't mind tearing bits off one large communal pancake and dipping into the dishes. It's a ton of fun!
Posted by: Abby @ 5thjoy | January 04, 2011 at 08:27 AM
Definitely try Ethiopian!- highly addictive!
Love the notion of intentions vs resolutions, much more achievable and less scary.
So far my intention to start the Whole Living cleanse by ridding my cupboards of all 'junk' has consisted of me simply ingesting all cheese, wine and chocolate in sight- the logic is to avoid future temptation, hmmm... I intend to try again tomorrow...
Posted by: escapade | January 04, 2011 at 08:34 AM
I like the intentions idea-I've been calling them to dos but like your reference better. And PS, love love that kitchen!
Posted by: christine {bijouandboheme} | January 04, 2011 at 08:34 AM
Intentions is SO much better than resolutions! One of my intentions is to save my money for quality rather than quantity. I think I get a lot more pleasure from one incredibly nice item than five so-so things. Oh, and designers really do need to look into adding more color. Not everyone loves the soft, creamy, dreamy pastel look for the home (especially men).
Posted by: Kathy | January 04, 2011 at 11:08 AM
Lets start that sewing circle! It will be so much fun! I have never had Ethiopian either- something I need to try.
Sunny day in L.A. to you!
Posted by: Rebecca @ Bee of Design | January 04, 2011 at 11:31 AM
like the color action intention.
Posted by: lydia {ever ours} | January 04, 2011 at 12:48 PM
Oohhh, I love that kitchen!
Posted by: Jessica (of Munich + Jeff) | January 04, 2011 at 02:09 PM
Oh my, I love your blog! Just found it and I'm bookmarking it now!
Posted by: Splendid Little Thrills | January 04, 2011 at 04:49 PM
I completely agree with you...I think I will start calling them intentions as well:)
You have some great ones to start with!
Cheers to the new year!
Anna
Posted by: Anna @IHOD | January 04, 2011 at 07:11 PM
Ethiopian food is amazing! Next time you're in LA head down to Little Ethiopia. Its kind of like Moroccan food meets Indian food and they have an awesome love child.
Posted by: Kelly Oshiro | January 05, 2011 at 09:47 AM
That kitchen is perfect! Simple, elegant, cozy!
Posted by: Jessica Turnbow | January 06, 2011 at 07:35 AM
Being crafty for crafty's sake is a good intention. I've gotten away from furnishing my home with handmade items and it really makes a difference.
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Anne, Do you happen to know the source on those blankets?
xx - CB
Posted by: Christina | January 11, 2011 at 01:13 PM
I just get all worked up , and I stew around!
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Thanks!
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