4 of 111: Goal 50

Two blog posts in two days? Could it really be true? I know you're all keeling over with joy right about now.

Seriously, though, I have some great news. Last night, I was able to check another goal off my 111 for 2011!

How this happened was mostly what I would call God's direction and perfect timing. Or just a good sale on steak that my mother-in-law took advantage of and shared with us. Either way!

Last night I got the chance to grill out again, and this time we got to enjoy some delicious KC Strip steaks. In case you were wondering, I love steak. Love, love, love. Don't tell my wife. Or better yet, do tell her, so she'll buy it more often!

Here's the deal. When I was younger, we used to have birthday dinners around or on my birthday. I don't know that they happened every year, but I remember them happening pretty regularly. If we were feeling rich (or lazy, you pick) we would go out to eat, probably at Applebee's, and I would order a nice, juicy sirloin to devour with some mashed potatoes.

However, when my dad was still around, we would grill out and have steak and potatoes at home. Great memories. So you can see where my love for steak comes from. And to boot, my dad was great at grilling. Unfortunately, he forgot to teach me his secrets, so I usually have to wing it.

So here's to me winging it...

3 of 111: Goal 102

So, apparently I've been slacking on blogging. For that, I apologize. Who exactly I'm apologizing to, I'm not sure, but I'm sorry nonetheless. I've gotta find some motivation!

Meanwhile, I have been motivated to continue completing goals on my list of 111 goals in 2011! I recently completed #102 on my list: buy and use quinoa flour/seeds! This probably sounds like the nerdiest thing on Earth, and it probably is. However, let me bore you with why this was a goal of mine...

2 of 111 in 2011: Goal 96

It is officially January 10th, 2011, or 01/10/11 (which just looks nifty). By now, everyone and their mother has broken a New Year's Resolution. If you haven't, congratulations on your super-human powers. Or your lack of resolution-making. Either way!

As you might've recently read, I made a list of 111 goals to complete in 2011. If you missed it, check out my last post. Though I'm among the imperfect that have already failed at a New Year's Resolution, I'm determined to accomplish my goals as fully as possible. 

With all of that aside, I present you with some great news: I've already accomplished a goal for the year! I visited a new restaurant with my lovely wife for our monthiversary (and because we got a gift card)...

111 for 2011

As the new year of 2011 comes into full swing, I have noticed a few things that have eluded me in years past.

First of all, the number of weight loss commercials is bordering on ridiculous. I understand that people want to be healthy and lose weight, and I am all about that. I love the idea of using the new year as a starting point in that journey. However, if I ever purposely lost weight, I'd probably have to be admitted to a psych ward because I would certainly be certifiable.

Secondly, I've noticed an increase in goal-setting from all of my friends. This is highly conducive to why I created this blog, so, once again, I'm all about using the new year as a platform to set some tangible goals for life.

I realize that what I've noticed isn't anything revolutionary and isn't even anything new. Apparently I've just been very ignorant over the last 20 years.

Anyway, in honor of the new year, and because I was inspired by my cousin-in-law (yes, we qualify as family), I have made a list of goals for 2011. I already have my Bucket List, which I have shared bits and pieces of on this blog. However, these goals are a little different. Many of the things I have done in the past and simply want to do again this year. Many of these things are ridiculous. Many of them are impossible. However, it has really helped me to focus on living intentionally as the new year has begun, so take it for what it's worth.

This, my friends, is my 111 for 2011. Mock me (it's good for my ego), encourage me, and make a list of your own after you look over mine...

A Goal Near and Dear: Giving Radically

Today is an exciting day for a lot of reasons.

First of all, it's the 29th of November, which means it is almost December, which means that this semester is almost over.

Second of all, it's the only time the 29th of November in 2010 will happen, so I know something crazy could happen.

Thirdly, it's Cyber Monday, so are there some epic deals available to consumers, and they don't even have to leave their homes!

Finally, and most importantly, I've got a chance for every single person reading (including myself) to REALLY make something crazy happen today, since it IS the only time today (November 29th, 2010) will ever happen. And, to boot, it's Cyber Monday, which means you're obliged to spend buckets of money via the internet that you actually already spent on Black Friday. Want to do something crazy with that money while you're spending it? Keep reading - I've got a GREAT opportunity for you...