Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Observations



1. No matter how much I prepare; no matter how many google maps I look up; no matter the fact that my iPhone is glued to my hand... I will get lost. It isn't like I don't prepare. I will spend the whole day with a map and turn-by-turn directions---but to no avail. The direction gods hate me. It's frustrating as hell. I was almost in tears this evening after I diligently got off the bus at my appointed stop... 1.5 miles away from the destination.

2. You know things are changing when:
     a.) Your feet hurt. Now that I walk everywhere and am running more, my feet hurt all the damn time.
     b.) You don't give a rat's ass what you look like, just as long as you're warm and comfortable. Tonight I had on an ear-warmer, a knitted baseball cap, and a fur-trimmed hoodie. I'm a-ok with this.

3. Not having a car is the best diet plan ever. No longer is that pint of ice cream appealing when you have to schlep it back home. Today my groceries consisted mainly of lettuce and whole-wheat bread. Lots of air in there.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Happy New Year!

image from http://www.theplatform.info/feedcontent/article/81079

Happy New Year, y'all!!

I used to think that I was above New Year's resolutions, while I still quietly declared goals to myself. But no one is above improving themselves. In fact, I make resolutions all the freakin' time! Am I successful? Not always. But I am no longer going to be afraid of admitting to myself and to others that change needs to happen---and that change is good.

I love being in Chicago---a big change---and I'm so proud of myself for making this happen! So, without further ado, here's a list of things I'd like to focus on or accomplish in 2012.

- Run a marathon
- Write---including this blog, my personal journal, and pursuing outside writing opportunities
- Eat better. Reduce the extreme servings/cravings of salt and sugar (especially chocolate)
- Cook more and continue trying new recipes
- Stick to my budget
- Spend more time mastering the things I'm interested in

Last year was not a total wash, either. Here are a few things I was able to accomplish. Woo hoo!

- Moved to Chicago
- Received two job offers within a month of moving
- Successfully transitioned into my new job and home
- Relaxed more!! I'm also very proud of myself for this. I was such a spaz ball wreck in Colorado---and I still find myself getting caught in that trap whenever I visit. In Chicago, I've been able to calm down and take one day at a time. No more guilt.
- Became a much, much better cook---though I still have a long way to go
- Fell in love

In short, I'm happy again. Finally. I'd like to continue being happy while accomplishing new things.

2012 is going to be a good year.