Had you asked me two months ago what my 2012 goals were, I’d have rattled off a list of cycling events that were long and dirty: Trans-Iowa, Almanzo 100/Royal 162, Dirty Kanza, Gravel Worlds, Dakota 5-0, Berryman epic, etc. However, a month’s exile from the bike went a long way towards clearing the head and taking inventory. The last thirteen months have been characterized by a focus and intensity never experienced by this man in his forty-four years. Admittedly, that laser-gaze has been on cycling and fitness, but once the bike-high waned (at least slightly), it became obvious that the same energy could be directed to the rest of my life: family, time, finances, etc. The title of this blog began to take on new meaning: perhaps it’s possible to make a comeback as a better husband, father, and friend. Talk about a goal within itself, and one that necessitates an alternate assessment of one’s priorities! What’s the state of my plans as these first hours of the new year become history themselves? They have a less epic nature and their competitive vigor is diffused so to meld into the panorama of living. So, without further philosophical verbosity, here are twelve for 2012 (don’t worry; they still contain some two-wheeled goodness!):
- Spend more time with the printed word and less time with electronic (de)vices.
- Have an awesome vegetable garden.
- Camp frequently.
- Upgrade to Cat 1 in mountain bike (disclaimer: as a 45+, yes, I qualify for that age-group now!).
- Practice financial thrift.
- Complete a self-contained cycling tour with Hannah Houts.
- Take part in an extended cycling event with Dora Houts (RAGBRAI, Tour de Nebraska, Tour da Kota)
- Enter the Twin Bing Classic as a racer.
- Run a sub-30:00 5K – hopefully under 26:00.
- Participate in a 100+ mile gravel grinder event.
- Play the guitar more.
- Race the Dakota 5-0 again.
Happy New Year, friends! My glass is raised to our goals; may they be worthy and bring us great joy in the months ahead!
That looks like a great list of goals, Glen. I personally have a hard time with divided attention — I’m either all in or all out. I envy those that can be more balanced with everything.
Good luck, I look forward to seeing your 2012 year end assessment.
Let’s not get carried away with the “envy” just yet, Jon! As you’ve probably figured out, I’m a little bit obsessive myself. Here’s to hoping balance can be part of the year’s achievements!