I've read pros and cons of having New Year's resolutions. But, I'm going to post some anyway.

1. A few years ago I took up wine as a hobby. My fave thing to do on Sunday afternoons is watch TV and have a glass of wine. But, it conflicts with my anti-seizure meds. So, for 2013, I will stop buying wine. Sunday afternoons with henceforth be Diet Coke day. I think this is doable.

2. I will search for a new hobby. I have no idea what it will be but it won't be reading, tennis, bowling or walking. I will continue bike riding in season. (I don't ride in the winter as I don't tolerate the cold well.)

3. I will explore a new career. Goodbye paralegal work. I will push myself to study more and master MS Office products.

4. I will try to dress better. I like cheap clothes that are comfortable but they don't impress others. Getting shoes will be a big problem as my feet are impossible to fit. So, getting better shoes will be a priority. It won't be easy and may entail buying 2 pairs of shoes as my feet are different sizes and shapes. (I will have to buy size 12.5 for the right foot and size 11 for the left foot.)

5. I will try to take a vacation. I live on SSDI and have very little money. But, it has been years since I have been away and I need the perspective that a vacation offers.

[shezbut]

unhappyguy,

How are your resolutions coming along so far?

I'm not sure if Chicago has Workforce Centers, or if that's more of a Mn state thing. But, you ought to try looking into it and see if there are any near you. I am on SSI (because I didn't work enough to make money to fall back onto before my disability struck) and that automatically qualified me for assistance in finding a career through the Workforce Centers.

My helper bought professional clothes and shoes for me to wear to interviews and work..a heck of a deal!! That was after we worked on developing a resume and interview skills. I have heard that they will also pay for schooling, to get you onto a career path that you'll be able to do and enjoy doing it as well. I didn't take that option though.

Best wishes to you!!

[RomanSunburn]

I just wanted to say these all sound really great and positive! How are they coming along?

And just a little side idea... What about trying new and interesting juices to replace the wine? I know stores like Whole Foods have some really interesting kinds.. And it could be a little splurge for yourself