2- Five Things I Will Do More Of

Every New year it's about resolutions to do better, more or less. So I'll start out by posting the five things I plan to do more of.

1- Exercise. I am an avid walker. On the days I am not working I take the dog for a 3.25 mile walk that usually takes a little over an hour. So I will try to do more of that along with using that expensive clothing rack called a bowflex. The G-man and I began in earnest yesterday and both of us found it a good workout.

2- Learning. When I was in school I couldn't wait to get out of school. Now as an adult things are different. There are so many things in the world to learn about and know. I routinely google things or words I don't know... probably from that old adage that teachers and parents give kids to "go look it up". In addition to that I went to www.greatcourses.com and signed up for the a DVD course called "The Foundations of Western Civilization" that includes 48 lectures of 30 minutes each.

3- Reading. I have always enjoyed a good book and you can see what I am reading if you go to www.goodreads.com and become a member. It's a great way to track your reading and get recommendations from others. The five books I plan to concentrate on this year are:

a. The Holy Bible. I purchased the Quest study bible (NIV) which includes commentary, maps and timelines in addition to the sacred text.
b. The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman (A writers guide to staying out of the rejection pile)
c. The Weekend Novelist by Robert J. Ray (52 week program to produce a finished novel)
d. The Secrets of People Who Never Get Sick by Gene Stone
e. Absolute Power by David Baldacci

4- Writing. I intend to write everyday (hence this blog). I also have a few good ideas for a novel and will work toward the goal of a polished and complete novel by December 31. I am taking an online writing course beginning on Jan 5th at http://www.writersvillage.com

5- Focus on what's important. I'll try to use a critical eye and identify what's more important (God, family, friends, health, country, hobbies, etc) and what isn't (TV, busy work, things, etc). Hopefully I can make wiser choices this coming year.