Unique Chicago New Year's Resolutions

The year is already well underway, and some of you may have not set a resolution for the year - or have already given up on one. Luckily, there's plenty of ways to better yourself in Chicago: whether it's getting fit, seeing more of the city, or making it a better place, we've got some suggestions that should get your year off to a good start.

Fat Blossom CSA box

www.fatblossom.com

Winter is the perfect time to let someone else do your shopping for you. Fat Blossom's Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box will provide you with a monthly Michigan-grown assortment of heirloom and seasonal fruits and veggies (and eggs if you like). Hone your cooking skills, expand your palate, and give your body some better fuel than last night's take-out.

Rapid Transit

1900 W. North Ave.
1305 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, IL
www.rapidtransitcycles.com

Chicago is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and for some people the commute may end up being quicker on two wheels than it is on four. It's also a great opportunity to get yourself in shape - which is crucial when the gyms are crowded with resolution-happy newbies. Skip your morning mosh pit on the train and get the gear (and tips) you need from Rapid Transit. With two locations, their Winter Tune-Up program that will keep you rolling through snow, rain, gloom of night or anything else Chicago can throw at you.

Garfield Park Conservatory

300 N. Central Park Ave.
Chicago, IL
www.garfield-conservatory.org

Sometimes it's hard for Chicagoans to appreciate everything we have in the city. Some people might not even know that the city has a lush greenhouse on the West Side. Just a step off the green line, the Conservatory boasts 4.5 acres of greenery - take a walk through the greenhouse for one of their flower shows, or catch a performance of their winter music series. During their Sweet Saturdays, you can even sample Conservatory-grown bananas, vanilla beans, and cinnamon bark.

Gene Siskel Film Center

164 North State St.
Chicago, IL
www.siskelfilmcenter.org

While regular movie theaters get more and more expensive, the fare isn't necessarily getting any better. The excellent selections available at the Siskel film center are diverse, often rare, and best of all, art that you can enjoy while sitting down.

Chicago Cares

2 North Riverside
Suite 2200
Chicago, IL
www.chicagocares.org

If you want to do something for the less fortunate, put your wallet away this year and do some hands-on help. Chicago Cares offers nearly 200 service projects each month, offering opportunities for all sorts of interests to people with all sorts of schedules. Or check out their Hot Projects to find where they need people most. After a quick sign-up, you'll be added to their email list and can begin browsing for the right opportunity to start contributing to your community.

Dan Morgridge resolves to continue being a writer from Ukrainian Village.