Happy 2009

2008 certainly had its challenges (see summer '08). I'm sure that this year will toss a few in my way as well but I Bob and I are very excited to begin a new year. We're looking at 2009 as a chance for a fresh start. Every year I make a few resolutions. They tend to be extremely girly: lose 5 (10) pounds, eat better, be more positive. All unmeasurable (well, except for the pounds) and sort of sissy/stupid goals. Those are things I should be doing anyway. This year is different. I have 2 very achievable and measurable goals.

Goal 1: Learn Serbian.

It goes without saying that this will do a lot to improve my effectiveness at living in Belgrade. Now, I'm not saying I have to be able to give professional lectures but, ordering a taxi on the phone and talking to vendors at the open air markets would be considered an extreme achievement in my book. I've already cranked through chapter 1 of "teach yourself Serbian". (Let's hope I can get into a class soon.)

Goal 2: Don't get hospitalized.

I realize that, to some extent, I do not have any control over this. But, I will be doing my best to stay healthy and, perhaps, pay more attention to, for example, ridiculously chronic headaches that drive me mad. In cases such as this, I will take action before symptoms force me to notice them in other extreme ways.

I also have one other goal that is perhaps less well defined but also something I really need to focus on this year. 

Goal 3: Figure out this 'working from home' thing

Out of necessity, I have become a freelancer. To some, this may sound awesome. And, on some days, I quite enjoy it myself. But I don't think that I've worked out all the kinks yet or figured out exactly how to structure my days and there isn't much of a long term vision for where this is headed. 

In the end, if all else fails, there are still the girly goals of working on my knitting, cooking with local ingredients, and practicing pilates! Here's hoping for a happy 2009 for everyone.