2012 Preview

All the "Year in Review" stories have led me to think about the "Year in PREview", 2012. Jennifer reminded me a couple days ago that I had designated 2012 the Year of the Car. In essence, we had budgeted to replace Jennifer's 12 year old Lexus this year. However, late this year we began discussions about possibly relocating closer to Nashville. So, 2012 will likely be the year of 'something' - whether it is a newer car, or a new home.

Spiritual/Intellectual Goals
One thing I'm particularly excited about in 2012 is Jennifer and I have found a new church home. We begin Confirmation Class in January to become members of St. George's Episcopal Church in Nashville. St. George's is a church Jennifer & I found in the 4th quarter of 2010 when we were doing our Tour of Churches. When we first visited St. George's I was a bit intimidated. My research about the Episcopalian liturgy led me to know there would be quite a bit of work involved in Worship (sit, stand, kneel, sit, kneel, stand, sit, etc). But when I left our first service there I really felt like I had worshipped (both personal and fellowship). There was no doubt that we had given all Glory to Him. Each Sunday I leave with the same feeling - that I couldn't optimize the time any better than the Worship at St. George's.

Recreational/Physical Goals
Another exciting activity Jennifer and I will be sharing is Marathon training! That's right; I finally have my running partner back! We're easing back into the marathon realms by running the Nashville Half Marathon in April. One of Jennifer's newfound loves of 2011 was trail running. I'm sure we'll continue trail running in 2012, and will probably work on adding some endurance to those runs as well. The "marathon" trail run is a 50k (30 mi), so it will definitely take an unparalleled commitment if we choose to go that route (pun intended). Another recreational activity Jennifer and I plan for 2012 are vacations. We were a bit frugal this year when it came to getting out of town. I hope to have a couple of GREAT getaways in 2012. It's fun for me, and a requirement for Jennifer's mental health (she's a Sagittarius).

Social/Professional Goals
2011 ended with a few great ideas that led me to think about possible projects I could get involved with in Nashville in 2012. I definitely want to get more involved in community activities, and possibly align myself with a charitable organization in an area I am especially passionate. These activities lead to furthering relationships with people I don't interact routinely. I'm also excited about the new relationships Jennifer & I will establish at St. George's next year. Church is a great source to find people with shared values that you can support, and vice versa!

Psychological
Well, the last dimension to speak to are my psychological goals. I could leave this dimension blank and allow any number of my family/friends complete this. Most would have very comical (and constructive) contributions to this area. The one goal I have established for my emotional development is routine journaling. Not so much blogging, but taking time to regulate my thought and document ruminations and activities that occur throughout the year. Jennifer and I have been together for almost 5 years now, and every Christmas morning I think to myself "Why are we not on a plane to somewhere?" If someone with some semblance of a memory could do a bit better planning, WE WOULD BE! So, I put structure around me to offset my ability to remember things (notes, lists, and now - journals)!

There has been a lot of ME in this blog. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention how excited I am for what's to come in 2012 for my friends & family. The Lord has been so gracious with Blessings in 2011, and I don't take any one person in my support network for granted. I'm here for you for great purpose, and you're here for me for a reason as well.

I'll re-state my intent to blog more frequently. After all, Al Gore assured us that commitment is a renewable resource (shortly after he invented the Internet). We'll see if it comes to fruition this time.

Wishing everyone a Safe & Blessed 2012,

Jason