2011: A Progress Report

Ok, I know it's early in the year to do a progress report. But I'm an overachiever and I like to tally my achievements.

1. Bike riding: I have done nothing with this, but on this week's Modern Family, Gloria (Sofia Vergara) doesn't know how to ride a bike. And a very smart, talented friend also confessed to me that she doesn't know how to ride a bike. So I'm not a lone freak.  I feel even more determined to conquer this two-wheeled demon.

2. Fitness: While this wasn't specifically stated as a goal of 2011, it's always there. I've done yoga 4 out of the 6 days of this year and have run 2 miles the past 2 days in a row (in addition to the yoga.) I feel strong and clear. In fact, taking a less strenuous yoga class stretches me out and warms me up so that I feel better when I run...as soon as I get home. Carb baby around my middle, prepare to be aborted (questionable word choice).

3. The Book: Admittedly, I was struggling. I didn't feel confident or that I even had enough material to write 70,000-75,000 words. As of tonight, I'm at 33,000 words. I wrote 5,000 words today after reading the first five chapters. I actually like what I've done. It's representative of my voice and quirky personality. And it's funny. So I'm going to keep pushing through. I finally feel motivated, instead of dread. Like my yoga strategy, the more I write, the easier it flows.

4. Job: No progress here other than I've been applying like a lunatic. But I feel 100% confident that I will get a job soon. There's no stopping me.

In high school, my gym teacher, Coach Hall, always gave me the same comment on my progress report: "Is a gem; always sparkling." Not exactly ideal for gym class, but I think it's fitting for the way I feel so far in 2011.