March 2011 Newsletter

March is one of my favorite months of the year. With the arrival of spring, days get longer, temperatures rise, and the landscape grows more verdant as poppies and crocuses poke through the winter-battered soil. It is a great time to embrace new beginnings, start new ventures and clear out the clutter in your life.

Today, I threw open the windows to air out the house and let the sunlight in while I began spring cleaning, scrubbing appliances and tossing out forgotten items or putting them into bags to donate to Goodwill. They get all the electronics, bedding, clothing and other miscellaneous things that I no longer use. It is a great way to recycle my unwanted stuff, give it a second life, and support a great cause in the process.

Started in 1993, World Water Day focuses attention on the importance of freshwater conservation.

The sunnier, warmer days also inspire me to get active. In fact, they inspired me so much that I joined Urban Active, a new gym near my home that has a fantastic workout space, state-of-the-art fitness equipment and a staff that delivers great customer service. Heck, they even offer free valet parking! But the best part of all is that I’ve already noticed my clothes getting looser and my waistline shrinking. That’s enough to keep me motivated for a long time to come!

My latest venture, however, is that I started volunteering at my local elementary school as a tutor. Working with fourth graders, I’m helping them practice their reading, build their vocabulary and get excited about opening a book. It’s so rewarding to see their eyes light up when they realize that they’re actually reading well! I encourage you to give it a try too. Likely, teachers at your local school will welcome you with open arms if you volunteer your time. And in most instances, you can make a big impact in as little as an hour a week. Simply contact the school’s volunteer coordinator for details.

Also, don’t forget that March 22 is World Water Day. Started in 1993 by the United Nations, this event focuses attention on the importance of preserving one of our most valuable resources, freshwater. Discover what your community is doing to commemorate this day and how you can get involved by visiting the World Water Day website.

No matter what you find yourself doing this month, I hope the warmer weather, longer days and the arrival of spring spurs you on to make changes in your life, both big and small.

Love,

Jathan Fink