I’m planning to periodically post updates about where I am with certain goals I’ve set just to keep myself on track. This is the first of those. Feel free to ignore.

Weight loss

The goal I’ve spent the most time on is weight loss. I haven’t started an exercise routine yet, but the diet is going pretty well, I’m down 4 pounds. It was a little dicey over the weekend, I got really hungry at night but managed to keep putting myself off until I was more tired than hungry and went to bed. I did use up a bunch of my extra weekly points on vodka Saturday night, though.

Spending

Felt the need to get out of the house Saturday afternoon, but didn’t really have anywhere to go- so I went to Home Goods & Borders. Since one of my goals is to not purchase anything I don’t need for 10 weeks (which not coincidentally brings me right up to my trip to Austin) it was sort of a test, since I rarely leave either store without a purchase. I did buy something at Borders- but it was a gift for someone else, so it falls under “stuff I need.” Instead of buying I surreptitiously took pictures with my iPhone of books I might want to buy later. I’m getting better at surreptitious picture taking.

Creativity

The surreptitious picture taking will hopefully lead somewhere (nothing sketchy…) I did some work on a new design for Basement Vinyl- what I really need to do is make a plan of action for that site, to make it into something more. I never intended it to be just a podcast- and obviously my instincts on that were right on.
I did a little research into DSLRs, towards my Big Fun Goal of buying one this year. I figure I need to come up with around least $1500 to get the kit I want and will actually use. The new Panasonics have the edge right now with their smaller camera bodies, something I’ll pay extra for because it’s more likely I’ll lug the thing around. Of course, by the time I come up with the money, who knows what else will be out there. Everyone is yelling Nikon & Canon at me because of the extensive lenses and accessories available, but I’m not kidding myself into thinking I’m going to go crazy with this stuff. And I’ve been very happy with our point & shoot Panasonics… even if they didn’t pick me for their Living in HD program. Definitely need to make a field trip to B&H in NYC. Yes, there’s a good camera shop right here in town (Beach) but any excuse to go to B&H…

I’m off to a cranky but good start this year. Seems like lots of little annoyances are getting to me, but I’m doing my best to shove past them.

I decided on a whim to join Weight Watchers online on January 1. I downloaded the iPhone app (geek) and so far so good- day three and I have points leftover today! I’m going to have a Christmas cookie while I watch the Jets.

I’ve started a list of goals for the year. The most expensive one is to buy myself a DSLR camera. It’s been a secret/guilty desire for decades, and I finally figured it’s now or never, which is the same reason I joined WW. I’ve spent too long saying “someday.” Of course, I can’t afford a DSLR, so I’m working on a plan to save up for it.

Another goal- try one new thing each month. Haven’t gotten to the part where I figure out what those things are yet, though.

We’re on the hunt for a new dog. Looking for a specific type- young (no older than 3), female, smallish, calm and very tail-waggy. Yes, I’m being picky, but I’m in no rush. I plan to start haunting the shelters, and if you hear of one that seems to fit the bill, let me know!

I have plenty to do with and for the kids- Nick in particular as we head into the real work of college admissions!

Finally, I’ve got gift certificates for a massage, a spa, and a VERY expensive restaurant to cash in. I’ll save that last one for after I hit my goal weight, but I’m really looking forward to the massage!