I can't believe it is October 1st. Nicole and I sat in a hotel room on January 1st, writing down several goals I wanted to accomplish this year, but I have no recollection of what they were and where I put that wishful paper. I'm sure Nicole still has it. We are starting the 10th month of the year, and I wonder if I can cram in anymore checks on my list before the chill of the winter months freeze my motivation. Even if it does, I've accomplished things I never imagined I would have this year:

• I've won writing competitions
• made new friends
• visited locations far away
• strengthened familial relationships
• grown as a human being
• nominated as a MVP (Microsoft Valuable Professional)

So as I look at it now, 9 out of 12 really wasn't that bad.