The Year of Thirty-one

Definition: The year in which Alyssa embraces Alyssa, gets to know Alyssa, strives to improve Alyssa, and pays some attention to Alyssa.

It's about G-damn time, isn't it??

As my 32nd birthday rapidly approaches (in about a month and a half) I think that it is important for me to reflect on some things; the goals that I made for myself this year, in particular.

1. Go on an actual vacation.
Done! I went to Hawaii without kids in March of this year. I had a ridiculous amount of fun hiking, running, snorkeling, kayaking, and camping.

2. Start running and do a 5k.
Done! I did my first 5k in Hawaii on March 22, 2009 in Hilo, Hawaii. I did another 5k in May in Kirkland, an 8k in May in Seattle, and a 10k in August in Woodinville.

2a. Amendment to 2. Run a half marathon.
Done! I ran my first half marathon on June 20, 2009 in Burlington. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. I am planning to run another half in September.

3. Clean the attic.
Done! I did it back in.. shoot.. the spring, I think. My house is a freaking mess right now though.. not even sure if I should credit on this one. LOL

4. Hike up Mt. St. Helens.
TBA... I'm working on this one.

5. Take a personal inventory (ie. deal with my shit).
This was certain to be quite the undertaking! lol. I started the process back in December and January... It was a lot more work that I had bargained for! I needed a slight break from such rigorous self examination, but am pleased to report that I have been actively working on it diligently since late May. It sucks ass. Pardon my French in #5, but it goes with the territory. Fuck off if you don't like it. Er.. uh.. moving along...

6. Get a puppy for the kids (and me hehe.)
Done! I love you Legolas!

7. Step out of my "box."
I don't know if I have done this one or not. I think I have.. I feel like I have taken some risks.. I allowed myself to finally fall deeply in love with someone. Unfortunately, he ripped out my heart and it is most likely irreparably broken. Good times. No worries folks, I'm doing ok on that one. See goal #5. That should help, eh? I also volunteered at Camp Orkila for a week and took the kids with me. I have a hard time taking risks when it comes to Matt. I was so scared that him going to camp would be a disaster for him, that the kids would just tease him and he would feel even more isolated from the world. I prayed my little heart out and listened for my answer. Funny how a little listening can go a long way. He did beautifully. What Camp Orkila did for my baby that week was truly of divine proportion. I also bought two pink shirts. (Trust me, that's huge.)

8. Look into going back to school.
Ugh! Ok, so I looked into it! I went to see a person at the community college. She was a moron. (I'm projecting) Now shut up about it, because I'm not ready!

So there you have it. I think I have come far in many ways. I feel behind in others... I'm thinking of having a "Year of 32." I can continue working on the ongoing goals of my current list, and of course add some new ones.

Comments and suggestions welcome.