New Year's resolutions

Vestavia Voice asked residents about the best New Year’s resolution they’ve ever made and kept.

“At age 25, I decided my resolution would be to never again make a resolution. Each year I renew my pledge to be courageous enough to know when I need to start or stop doing something and to be tenacious enough to follow through.” -Jane-Marie Marlin, director of curriculum & instruction, Vestavia Hills City School

“My best New Year’s resolution was to finish a book once a month. It helped me relax and de-stress. It was a manageable goal.” -Courtney Childress, fourth-grade teacher

“My best New Year’s resolution ever was to eat healthier. This forced me to try new foods and to stay on track nutritionally.”-Elaine Graham, fourth-grade teacher

“Play more and pray more. I am not very good at practicing that resolution; however, having it reminds me about the importance of enjoying the gift of life and being deeply connected with the one who is the giver of life.” -Joe Slane, pastor, Southminster Presbyterian

“My best New Year’s resolution was to spend more time in prayer and reading the Bible. This helped me to grow as a mom, a teacher and as a positive influence.” -Lorie Belski, fifth-grade teacher

“The best resolution that I ever made was to be a better father and husband and to make the most of every minute like it was my last.”-Austen Johnson, fourth-grade teacher

“Starting a fitness routine and sticking to it was something I really wanted to conquer. My thought was that with a strong body and mind, you could accomplish anything and your success all falls on yourself through dedication and diligent commitment.”  -Rebecca Gordon, founder, Buttermilk Lipstick

“My best New Year’s resolution ever was to run a marathon before I turned 30. It forced me to train hard toward a goal, and I ended up running two marathons before I was 30.” -Emily Self, fifth-grade teacher

“My best New Year’s resolution was to keep my car keys in one special place each day. This helped me get organized and be on time everywhere I went.” -Kate Garrett, fourth-grade teacher