If you missed my post yesterday, I'm writing about my 5 "New Decade" resolutions for the next few days. Number two is Smile More, Worry Less.

I don't have a lot of trouble with the smiling part. I smile all the time. I smile at strangers and always feel that sometimes people just need a smile. So I have half of this resolution in the bag and all I need to worry about is, well, the worry part.

In these times it really is hard to stop worrying - money, relationships, people you care about, health, politics - there is a whole parade of things you can, and probably should to some degree, worry about. So maybe the secret isn't how much you are worrying or not worrying, but how you cope with the worry that is natural to us all.

My secret weapon is my pets. I have three dogs and two cats and while they can drive me crazy at times and I feel that my lint-removing device is an extension of my hand, their devotion and companionship makes even the worst day better. It doesn't surprise me that there are studies that show that people with pets live longer.

Now more than in any other time, the family pet is considered a true member of the family and more and more folks choose to travel with their pets. Sometimes I think there are more pet pictures in our photo contests than children pictures. It's definitely close. And in addition to all that love and companionship, if you own a dog you are probably getting more exercise which also makes for improving handling stress and overall health.

So for my second resolution I will keep smiling, whether I feel like it or not, and spend some extra time with my fur family. That may not take all my worries away but it sure helps me deal with them.

All you dog lovers, be sure to remember that all but one of our First Day Hikes are fido-friendly for leashed pets (even cats, and I actually saw a pig hiking once). Find the hike that works best for you or pick up a trail guide and plot your own adventure. Remember, parking fees are waived. Hey and here's a photo contest tip from a judge - we love pets in pics but not posed (same goes for people pics).

Stay tuned for resolution 3 tomorrow.