OK, raise of hands—How many of us made New Year resolutions? Now, hiding of faces—How many of us have already broken them? Wouldn’t it be easier to resolve not to make New Year resolutions and keep that one?
The new year has started, and it’s not too late to try new things. We are not suggesting that there is anything wrong with the “old” you—You have probably heard the cliché, “New year, new you!” You may need to feel new, or just need a change from routine. Maybe your mind needs a little sharpening or your bones need to be rattled a bit. Perhaps you need some new faces (not yours but some new friends). Here are some suggestions for the “old you” to go to and try to.

Lehigh Valley Active Life Their tagline says it all: “An organization for retired active people who never slow down.” Located on West Elm Street in Allentown, the center offers cards and games, an Arts Academy, education and support groups, fitness programs, and opportunities to eat, dance to live music, travel, and laugh! This is not just a bunch of old people sitting around in mothballs playing bingo (although cash bingo is offered!)—it’s a place to liven up and get involved and learn new things with new people! Talk to Rick; he’s a nice guy! 610-437-3700 | lvactivelife.org
Learn something new (besides using the remote)
Google “adult education Lehigh Valley” and you can spend the afternoon reading about all the options.
Speaking of reading, The Literacy Center on Hamilton Street in Allentown has a mission to empower adults through literacy. TLC offers the following services at no charge: English as a Second Language; GED and college access; workforce development; and additional support services. 610-435-0680 x804 | theliteracycenter-lv.org. NOTE: Local school districts may also offer similar courses and services.
If you decide to change careers or get back into the workforce, schools like Lehigh Career and Technical Institute in Schnecksville can help you invest in your future with adult courses in construction; communications; health and food services; manufacturing; mechanics; and transportation. 610-799-2300 | lcti.org/contact
There are some simple life choices you can make at home that might add some freshness to your routine.

For example, buy a planner that you can fill out to make sure you schedule and complete your life activities.
Find a book to read. You can check out your local library (pun intended), a new or used book store, an online book review site, or a friend’s bookshelf. Try a genre you’ve never read—or even a coloring book!
Write a book—or at least a diary or journal! Think about how you can pass your wisdom, experience, and fun stories down to the next generations. You don’t have to be Charles Dickens; be who you are and write what you think.
If you use a certain Bible for devotions or in church, look in Barnes & Noble or on Christianbook.com or Amazon or another source for an updated or easier-to-read translation. You may understand passages you didn’t understand before!
Reach out to old friends for new experiences! Learn or get help with social media and track down old friends for updates and reminisces.
Add a thrill to your life!

If you’re willing to travel a bit, you can launch a new adventure! Lancaster Balloon Rides in Bird-in-Hand will give you a bird’s eye view of Amish Country. 800-763-5987 | lancasterballoonrides.com
Pocono Helitours in Tobyhanna gives you a tour of the Poconos like no other! Look down on those mountains that everyone looks up to! 570-580-4354 | poconohelitours.com
There are many new tricks old dogs can learn—it just takes a little motivation and wise planning to kick that bucket list (pun intended) and see what spills out. Sports, art, entertainment, adventure, travel, learning—there are opportunities all around. And we’re at the age where we don’t care what people think of us, so go crazy and have fun!