2011 Review

So 2011 came and went with another year on the books.  When reflecting back on what occurred and the adventures I had, I'm very pleased with myself.  Here are a few of the things that stand out above the rest:

• Creating this blog and putting this information out to share - If you know me, I'm not comfortable with my writing and doing this is a huge challenge for me.  I've come to enjoy posting and hope to do more of it in the future.
• The MS150 bike ride.  While I only did the one day 38 miles ride, it was still my longest bike ride to date and am excited to do it again.  Will try for a longer route next.
• Became a fan of yoga.  This was something I never thought I could do or would want to.  Luckily I was introduced to it at work and love it.  I've notice differences in my energy, focus, and overall mood.  There are times when you can tell that I need yoga to bring myself around.  While I haven't lost very much weight, I'm starting to see the shifts in were the weight is and have actually noticed some muscle definition.  I'm okay with that!
• Studied for my CAE certifications. For those not in the association industry this is the Certified Association Executive credential.  That was 3 months of intense studying for a 4 hour test.  While I don't know the results yet (should be any day now), it was a great experience and has already done so much for me in my job.
• London - I finally got to go to Europe and I loved it. 

There are probably many other things I could list but I'll stop here.  I also am very grateful for my family and friends.  I may not get to see everyone as much as I would like but know that you are in my thoughts.  I hope to get to see more people this year. 

As I look to 2012 it's time to set those goals.  Yes you heard correctly goals, not resolutions.  To be honest I don't like that tern resolutions.  I feel that it already sets me up for failure as it's something I'm doing bad.  Instead I prefer to use the word goals and strive to change habits and behaviors to improve myself.  Here are some of the things I'm considering:

• Blog more - I want to update this blog on a regular basis.  My goal is to update this at least 2 times a month if not more.
• Cooking - I want to try new recipes and cook more.  With that I'm going to select one meal a week out of one of the many cookbooks I own and try it out.  Think of it as t he Julie & Julia challenge without doing 500+ recipes in a year.  That would not end well.
• Strive to have a more health and active life style.  I want to ride my bike more, explore local hiking trails, and less sitting around at home (when I'm actually home and not traveling for work).  It's been suggested in my that I should consider a triathlon.  We'll see about that. :)  I do want to try either white water rafting or snowboarding/skiing. 
• Explore Kansas City.  There are so many great things to see and do here that I want to actually do them.  The restaurants are fantastic and I've got a list as long as my arm to try.
• See my family and friends more.  With my travel schedule this becomes difficult to do. I'll work to improve that. 

That's all I've go so far.  Some things may come off this list and others added.  I really want to focus on enjoying everything and exploring what there is. 

Thanks for all who've joined me thus far and you all are welcome along for the ride this year.  If you're ever in Kansas City, let me know and we'll explore together!