First Column

So I finished my first assignment for Column Writing. The theme was seasonal, so I decided to go with New Year's resolutions after bouncing around ideas covering Athens' weather. So here is the final product that I sent to be graded. Tell me what you guys think!


It's a new year, and we all know what that means: New Year's resolutions. Those are those plans you make at the beginning of the year, but never stick to, remember? Most people make resolutions to improve or change something about themselves. But this year, how about making some unconventional resolutions?

A Cookie a Day

Eat a cookie a day. Everyone loves cookies! Sure, it sounds somewhat unhealthy when you read it, but delve past the surface. You only eat one cookie a day and no other desserts. As long as you eat properly along side your cookie, you'll be fine. Plus, allowing yourself only one cookie a day makes that one cookie even more delicious. Just make sure not to give a mouse your cookie. It's your only cookie!

A Book a Week

Books seem to be going to the wayside because of new-fangled gadgets such as television and the Internet. Who doesn't love a good book? Curling up in an armchair, sipping whatever drink you prefer, petting the cat, and turning the pages are just a sample of the many fun things that come of reading a book. The books don't have to be classic or long works, just a book.

A Word a Day

Not one for reading? Why not try picking a new word from the dictionary each day? It's simple. Pick a random word each day, and then try to use that word once during the day. You'll impress your friends and co-workers with your advanced vocabulary, and also teach them. Plus, with your plethora of new words, crosswords will be a breeze!

A Food a Week

No one likes the same old thing week after week! So this year, try a new dish at one meal each week. There are so many cultures on the planet, so branch out and try the food of a different one. Sure Indian food may sound odd, and hummus may not look appetizing, but try it anyways. The only way to know if you like something is to try it! The worst that can happen is you end up not liking it.

A Picture a Day

The world is a busy place. People are constantly rushing and missing the beauty around them. So to capture the beauty around you, take a picture every day of something you find interesting. You only get one picture though, so don't waste it. Capture a moment that makes you laugh, smile, or remember a happy memory. It doesn't have to be artfully composed! Just have fun and take pictures!

A Movie a Week

New movies are being made every day, so who has the time to watch them all? I know I don't. Instead of trying to watch every movie ever made, watch one a week this year. Pick a day during the week and watch a movie you've never seen before. Don't stick to one section! Move around the video store or library, pick a random one at the movie theater, or check every genre's box in your Netflix options. With your new movie knowledge, at the end of the year you can apply to become a movie critic. Who wouldn't want to watch movies all the time?

These are just a few of many thing that you can fit into the a-day/a-week formula. If none of these appeals to you, then choose something else. Take some time and dance each day. Sing a song every day, Or say hello to someone you don't know each day. The possibilities are endless. Just make sure you stick to your resolution. If you don't, there's always next year, right?