At the beginning of every new year, we make ourselves promises about going on a diet, getting more exercise and treating our bodies better. Well, it's time to wake up and smell the roses, and not the roses left over from the Rose Parade! One's health and wellness are not just a once a year thing, but should be a consideration all year long.

If you have been reading the Ventura County Star lately, you should be well aware that obesity is a major problem in this country for young and old alike, and every obese person was once just a few pounds overweight. Exercise and a healthy diet combat obesity and we have a resource in our community that can get you on the right track with both.

On January 5th, the Camarillo Family YMCA is having an Open House where you can come and sample the benefits that the Y has to offer you and your family. From 9am to Noon there will be sample classes such as yoga, cycling and pilates for adults as well as youth activities like hip-hop dancing, Gymventures and team sports. Visit our Wellness Center with its state-of-the-art equipment and in the afternoon enjoy swimming in the heated outdoor pool. There will be mini-health fair on the pool deck promoting whole body fitness for you to explore as well.

The Open House will offer free on-site babysitting while you look around, a Jolly Jump for kids, refreshments, door prize drawings and more! On top of all this, the YMCA is offering 50% off the join fee during the month of January, with 75% off the join fee if you should choose to become a member on January 5th.

So what do you have to lose aside from some extra pounds and those hard to hide bulges? Begin this new year by making one of your resolutions a reality. Join the Camarillo Family YMCA and give you and your family the gift of health and fitness all year long!

The Camarillo Family YMCA is located at 3111 Village at the Park Drive, Camarillo, CA 93012. For more information about Open House, other upcoming events or membership, please call 805-484-0423 or visit www.ciymca.org.