A new year is beginning, and this is the time that many people make New Year’s resolutions. Many of these resolutions usually involve losing weight and exercise.

I have a few suggestions for those who are thinking about their resolutions for 2009.

Why not measure off a one-mile stretch of street or road in front of your own house and resolve to walk that mile several times a week?

And while you’re at it, put a plastic shopping bag and a pair of gloves in your pocket. Then pick up all the trash you see on your walk. The bending over you’ll do will burn extra calories during your workout.

Imagine, if even 100 citizens of Lawrence County resolved to do this, that would be a hundred miles of Lawrence County roads that would be litter-free! And a hundred citizens would be more fit and feel better about their community.

While you’re making those resolutions, why not also resolve to never again throw litter out of your car window. Let’s take pride in our beautiful county and help to keep it clean!

Have a happy and healthy New Year!

Amy Ferguson

Kitts Hill