My 40th Year

I have been tempted to start a blog for a long time. I have given it a try a few times and it just never took. It seems that as I embark on my 40^th year on his earth, it is an appropriate time to try again. I am in a particularly quiet and reflective time. In fact, as someone who is constantly busy – with work, play, and a variety of responsibilities – I do not know that my adult life has ever been quite this quiet. I am pet-free, partner-free, and without fulltime employment.

I am healthier and in better physical shape than I have ever been. As for what I have accomplished, I am in my third year of a PhD program with the hopes of finishing in the next 18 months. I love what I am studying and contributing to the field of social work. I have amazing friends both in Denver and in lots of places in this country and in others. And on a scale of 1-10, I think I am about a 9 on happiness. Pretty good. In fact, I couldn’t ask for much better.

What I would like to accomplish this year (just a start - hope to update periodically):

• Proceed with my dissertation. I’d like to finish my data collection and begin writing with a goal of finishing and graduating by winter/spring of 2010.
• Continue to try some physical activities in addition to running, i.e. yoga, swimming, cycling, what else? I’d like to do at least two competitive races this year; one or two half marathons and prep for the Disney Half in January 2010 with Carrie & Lee. Maybe a mini tri or a duathalon.
• Take a contemplative prayer course and start a regular prayer routine. Along with this, I’d like to get to church at least one time each month in Lakewood or elsewhere.