County Extension

 This second week in January is Diet Resolution Week. Yes, I’m still on this topic of New Year’s resolutions. I guess the thought is if you’re still thinking about resolutions this week, you’re really serious about it!

If your resolution was to lose weight, how are you doing? There’s still time to regroup or perhaps re-goal your resolution. Instead of a lofty goal like losing 30 pounds by the class reunion in March or 50 pounds by next Christmas, why not set your goal at just 10 percent of your current weight?

 Everyone seems to have some advice this week on New Year’s resolutions. Most of these involve eating a better diet and getting or staying healthy. It’s almost obligatory that I write a column about making a new start to a healthier lifestyle in the New Year.

But, do you really want to read more about what you should or shouldn’t do, eat or drink? Most people already know, or they won’t be making those resolutions. The real key to resolutions is how do you make them stick? If I ask you in a month, will you still be working on them?

    The hype has started. You know what I’m talking about; the claims are literally popping up everywhere. “Lose 10 pounds overnight.” “Reshape your tummy — with no work.” “Eat (name of food) to burn fat!” Promises, promises, promises.

Your New Year’s resolution is to get healthier. Should you jump on one of these articles on the web for your diet and health advice?

Sam Marshall

Horticulture Agent

When I worked for the state Forest Service, I remember one day while doing plant inventories stumbling upon a most unusual forest specimen. The large, fragrant white flowers were surrounded by a whorl of leaves nearly the length of my forearm and twice the width of my hand.