‘Tis the season of good intentions and if you look around Lake Oswego, you’ll see that there are all kinds of resources to help you keep yours.

Here are some resolutions that might show up on your list and suggestions for how people and places in Lake Oswego can increase your odds of success.

1. Read more. Show up at the Lake Oswego Public Library on January 7 between 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. and receive a free copy of this year’s Lake Oswego Reads selection, Running the Rift by Naomi Benaron. A 2010 Bellwether Prizewinner for Socially Engaged Fiction, the story is set in Rwanda amidst Hutu-Tutsi tensions as seen through the eyes of a gifted athletic young boy whose Olympic dreams run into the harsh reality of genocide. Arrive early—limited number of complementary copies available.

2.  Reduce stress. Meditation has come a long way from its “only for Swami” days. Even the Mayo Clinic recommends trying meditation to reduce the stress in your life. Sign up for a One Day Meditation Workshop on Saturday, January 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the West End Building, 4101 Kruse Way. Learn different methods and practical suggestions for incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your day. Register for class #1328365 through the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Department. Residents $33; Non-Residents $38.

3. Get involved. If this is the year for you to give back, Lake Oswego can use you! From helping out at Luscher Farm’s Children’s Garden to escorting seniors to doctor appointments through the Adult Community Center, there is a need sure to match the time and talents you have to give.

4. Learn a new skill. You’ve got to mix it up to keep life interesting. Got an inner chef that needs a little channeling? How about a cooking class at In Good Taste? January courses include Soups, Traditional Stuffed Pasta and a Culinary Boot Camp.

Inspired by Dancing with the Stars? Check out the classes at Step It Up Studios right in downtown Lake Oswego. They offer both group and private lessons, including a free one for first-time students. If cowboy boots are more your style than ballroom shoes, then mosey on over to the West End Building on Friday, January 4 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a free line dance try-it-out session.

5. Start an exercise program. Convenience is one of the things that will help you stick to your resolution to work out more. As luck would have it, there are several fitness clubs right in Lake Oswego to choose from. They include:

●Providence Mercantile Health and Fitness Center 4015 SW Mercantile Dr. 503.216.6606

●Trainer’s Club 333 S. State St., 503.636.3900

●Barre 3 201 B Avenue 503.636.0335

What’s your resolution for this year? Research shows that when you share your resolution with others, you’re more likely to keep it. So let us know what you’re shooting for by leaving a comment…and increase your odds for success!

Photo credit: FrameAngel at  freedigitalphotos.net