Well, here we are at the end of 2021.
Just let that sink in for a minute. Give yourself time to really revel in the fact that you made it through the past 12 months — because it’s no small feat. We’re all basically superheroes. Just sayin’.
Is this a Portlander’s guide to New Year’s resolutions? Yes. Are we going to double down on the importance of setting the same old goals we both know will probably fizzle out before Valentine’s Day? Nope. Instead, this is a simple reminder to look ahead at ways to add joy to life, laugh some more, and maybe check something off the old bucket list. Because if we’ve learned anything from another year of pandemic life, it’s to not take health — both physical + mental — for granted.
If you want to reduce your carbon footprint
Is this the year you start leaving the car at home? Portland has many, many alternative options for getting from point A to point B, like by Trimet or C-TRAN. Get a bird’s eye view from the Portland Aerial Tram, take the stairs, rent an e-scooter or take one of those orange bikes for a spin.
If you want to spend more time in nature
Portland is literally bursting with outdoor opportunities. Stop and smell the roses at Peninsula Park or the International Rose Test Garden, take a hike in Hoyt Arboretum, go birding with the Portland Audubon, or bring nature to you with a new houseplant.
If you want to learn a new skill or hobby
Anyone — green thumb or not — can pick up the basics of gardening with the help of local classes. Learn to make something other than macaroni + cheese with a class at Hipcooks, get crafty at DIY BAR, or learn a new language at Portland Community College. The Multnomah Arts Center can teach you to take better pictures, even on a smartphone.
If you want to feel better physically
Exercising is never a bad idea. Find your tribe at one of Portland’s many yoga studios, a gym, or get your feet moving at NW Dance Project. Practice mindfulness or guided meditation, or limber up with stretch therapy.
If you want to save money
Clipping coupons isn’t your only option in the 21st century: Find daily local deals on LivingSocial, hit up a happy hour, or take advantage of free admission days at places like the Oregon Historical Society.
If you want to read more books
Pick up your next favorite book at Multnomah County Library, a local bookstore, or discover the magic of a Little Free Library in your neighborhood.
If you want to eat more locally-sourced food
Buying food produced in our area not only tastes good but it goes a long way in supporting hard-working farmers + the local economy. Join a CSA or shop at one of Portland’s many farmers markets.
If you want to give back
Volunteering may look a bit different during a pandemic, but many local organizations still need your help. The Cat Adoption Team, CASA for Children, Green Lents, Oregon Food Bank, Transition Projects, Meals on Wheels People, and Trauma Intervention Program NW are just a few.
If you want to see new places on a budget
Traveling to new destinations doesn’t have to mean getting on an airplane. Oregon has it all, from wild rivers and rugged coastline, to rich farmlands, arid high-deserts, and mountain vistas. Plan your next adventure with the help of Travel Oregon. Or turn off your phone and start driving — sometimes ditching the GPS + itinerary is the best gift you can give yourself.
