Along with eating blackeyed peas and turnip greens, many of us will observe the New Year by making resolutions for 2006.

The dawning of a new year is a good time to reflect on things we would like to &8220;fix&8221; about ourselves or our behavior.

While I would not be one to offer much good advice on achieving the resolutions, I thought you might enjoy reviewing a list of Americans&8217; most popular resolutions as reported by several media outlets; perhaps one or more of these resolutions are on your list.

1. Spend more time with family and friends.

Recent polls conducted by General Nutrition Centers, Quicken and others show that more than 50 percent of Americans vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year.

2. Get in shape.

Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, makes you feel better, lowers blood pressure and even improves arthritis.

3. Lose weight.

Most of use could stand to shed a few pounds so it is not a surprise that this resolution makes many lists.

4. Stop smoking.

On average, smokers try about four times before they break the habit, so if you have tried and failed before, do not be discouraged.

5. Enjoy life more.

Given the hectic, stressful lifestyles of millions of Americans, it is no wonder that &8220;enjoying life more&8221; has become a popular resolution in recent years.

6. Quit drinking.

If you have decided that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available right here in Shelby County.

7. Get out of debt.

If money was a big source of stress in your life last year, then this might be a resolution worth considering.

8. Learn something new.

Perhaps a computer class, or becoming a master gardener, learning CPR or taking one of the many classes at the Shelby County Fine Arts Academy. Finding something enjoyable to learn is the easy part; finding the initiative to actually go and do it is the hard part.

9. Help others.

Whether you volunteer at your church, deliver meals on wheels, help build a house with Habitat for Humanity or some other worthy cause, this resolution can make a difference in your life and the lives of those around you.

10. Get organized.

This resolution could fit on almost everyone&8217;s list. Getting your desk at work organized or perhaps finally cleaning out the garage. It will be lots of work regardless of your choice but it is sure to be worth the effort.

Best of luck to you as you select your resolution[s] and I hope you have a happy and prosperous new year