After a long hiatus, I'm back. No particular reason for staying away other than just not feeling the need to write. But I realize it has been nearly three months! Where have I been? Travelling, holidays, back to work. Busy. But in good ways. The 'Healthy Living' project is still working well, even if the weight loss has stalled. Made it through the December holidays without too much weight gain (<5lbs) and have worked that back off and a tad bit more. I am finding some evenings and weekends a bit harder to fight off the urge for snacks, but I think that's the winter blahs more than anything. Hard to subvert the carb cravings with a walk when it is -30 or more outside! But I do feel more fit and energetic - new Active2 for the Wii from the son has really challenged me to get more fit - in lots of good ways reminds me I have a ways to go to really be fit. So I'm feeling pretty good about it all but do wish I could get off this plateau. At least 15 more lbs to go and I really want to get there by my birthday (May 1). It would mean a real transformation from last year and something to really celebrate.
As I think about 2011 and my goals for the year, I realize that this is a year of transition in many ways. Transitioning still into 'empty-nester' parenting. It really does seem odd to not be a daily part of my son's life, but I know he is happy and healthy, and so I take joy in that. I do miss him though - he does give the best hugs :D Of course, being empty-nesters means transformation in my relationship with my spouse too. We spend more time together, and are much better about carving out 'our things' that we do just us two - like our holidays away, seafood buffet night at the casino, auctions, movies etc., Work is in a transition too - will I ever get used to being 'mid-career' and being asked/put in charge of things? But I'm keen for the challenges that are coming my way - managing people and having the political savvy to figure out how to get things done... lots to learn but I want to make sure I am still myself and hold to my own core values. I think I can do this and still be effective as a leader and decision-maker. Don't know though if in just a year I will be as innovative and creative as my colleague who I'm stepping in for while they are on leave. Big shoes to fill.
The university politics wear me down, as do the students that seem to forget that we are mere humans - but there are also lots of wonderful times where I feel I made a positive difference, opened minds and hearts, and created something interesting and special. I never seem to actually get everything done - always another project, another report/paper/thing to do...
It would be nice one day to literally say 'that's a wrap' but I don't think that's going to happen until the day I retire...and as that's not until 2030...
how are you doing? how is 2011 looking for you?
Welcome back. Sounds like we're both in for interesting and fun times this year. Happy transitioning!
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