Overindulgent Dogs, New Years' Goals & Thank-You Letters: Listening to Local Voices

1. Even dogs can party a little too hard during the holidays.

Dr. William Fraser of

(It's OK. The dog is fine but, perhaps he has learned a sobering moral.)

2. Almost everyone makes New Years' resolutions (even if we only admit them to ourselves.)

But how many people actually stick to them?

Jennifer Margolis offers some tips that will strengthen your resolve.

"Focus on process instead of outcome. Research shows that when you create a goal that allows you to control your behavior you’re more likely to achieve it," she advises.

For more tips, .

3. Maybe you've resolved to get a better job in 2012.

If that's the case, you should check out Kelly Blazek's blog.

In her most recent post, Blazek suggests