This year instead of making all the typical New Year’s promises to myself about diet and exercise, I decided to do three simple things to make my life better: Read, Play, and Drink. It’s sort of like the novel Eat, Pray, Love, but without all the travel.

1.Read.To those who know me, this may seem like an odd resolution, because I pretty much have a book going at all times. Typically, more than one. But not long ago I realized that I was reading more and more books that are work-related and fewer books simply for pleasure. I resolved to change that this year, and I’ve loaded my To-Be-Read Pile with a ton of titles that are purely for fun.

So far, I’m loving this resolution. Amazing how much time I can find to read when I’m actually looking forward to the story! I’ve already read half a dozen books since January 1. My favorite so far is the brand-new one by Robert Crais, Suspect. This story features two wounded protagonists: an injured LAPD police officer and a German shepherd that was hurt in combat in Afghanistan. This story roped me in on page one, and I recommend it to anyone who likes suspense, especially if you happen to be a dog lover.

2. Play. My second resolution is to play. With my family, that is. As our lives get busier and busier, I am finding less time to simply hang out and enjoy my family’s company. It seems like we are constantly rushing around everywhere, scarfing down meals before soccer practice, racing to finish homework, hustling out the door. This year I vowed to make more time to put work aside and simply “hang” with everyone. I’m loving this resolution, too. The other night, in the midst of a crazy deadline, I spent an hour sitting on the floor in my den playing Legos with my daughter. It was so fun! Legos are good for the soul.

3. Drink. This is on the advice of my doctor. Last time I visited him, he advised me to drink water like crazy. So I am. I have never been one of those dutiful eight-glasses-a-day people. I’m more the guzzle-caffeine-and-diet-soda-all-day person. But I’m making an effort to drink water now, and I’ve been amazed how something so simple could make a difference in how I feel. Do you drink enough water? Try it and see what you think.

Did you make any unusual resolutions this year? Have any 2013 book recommendations to share? If so, I’d love to hear it!