I hit the ground running after writing my article “25 Things to do in my 25th year,” and now that half the year is over, it’s time for a check-in.
So far, I’ve completed 8 / 25 tasks. While the next few months will be daunting, I’m pleased with what I have accomplished so far:
1. Learn how to tie a bowtie – In Progress
I bought a fake one that works until I can learn the real one.
2. Go to a music festival – Complete
I went to the 40th Annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and it was magical and amazing in every way you’re thinking. The music, the sun, the friends and the beer were top notch, and sunburns were minimal. This should be on your bucket list if you live in Colorado.
3. Run a 5k – In Progress
Uh… I guess I’ll have to go in spring, because I didn’t make the one I PAID FOR in June. Redemption round, anyone?
4. Create a Mason Jar Project – Complete
I mixed a geode that is broken into bits with sand, pebbles and candles in a Mason jar. Sure, it’s terrible and will never be on Pinterest, but hey, I did it.
5. Yoga – Complete
I go once a week now. I never went in my life, and now I go consistently. SUCCESS.
6. Read ‘Atlas Shrugged.’ – In Progress
That is just a big can of nope.
7. Learn how to properly bartend – Complete
I have my bartending “degree” hanging on the wall behind my computer as I write this.
8. Bike to work once a week – In Progress
So, after dodging a near-collision on Bike to Work Day and being peeled out of the street by a local car dealership’s courtesy van, I have to say, the urge to bike to work has diminished. But I spent my weekends during the summer enjoying the trails in my area and plan to get back on this task once the weather warms up.
9. Do something out of routine once a week – Complete
I don’t do it as consciously as I’d like, but no week is the same; it seems my routine includes “avoiding constant routine.”
10. Being proficient at driving a manual – In Progress
Capable? Sure. Proficient? Not exactly.
11. Skydive – In Progress
What an expensive activity. Come on, Groupon, help a brother out.
12. Rebuild my LEGO blog – Complete
Yes, I now have a blog dedicated to my LEGO projects. Check it out at www.lifeinlego.com.
13. Start (and maintain) an offline journal – In Progress
I haven’t started or maintained a journal offline yet. I think building a cabin and growing a long beard would help with this task, but those are also pending.
14. Build a summer garden – In Progress
I started my research and still want to start a garden, but where our garden will go is under dispute of land ownership with our neighbors. It is probably not the best time to plop in a tomato plant.
15. Make a GIF – In Progress
This goal is the perfect example of why I’m checking in on my list, because honestly, I completely forgot about this one. I’ll get on that.
16. Drive a car with more horsepower than days in the year – In Progress
This one is actually making progress, but it’s not a car you just stumble upon. Phone calls and favors are being called in.
17. Marry Someone – In Progress
I have a wedding scheduled for next summer, and I could not be more excited. In fact, the people I’m marrying were in the news a few weeks ago.
18. Build an Etsy Store – In Progress
I sort of have a store for creative art in the works, which is another story for another day. But, again, progress!
19. Reach the summit – In Progress
I hiked four 14ers in my 25th year so far, but not Pikes Peak specifically. This one may not be complete in time, but we’ll see how the year goes.
20. Write a book – In Progress
I have the introduction so far. Which… is something.
21. Volunteer at a school – Complete
I love it when I have the opportunity to volunteer at my nephew’s school, and I hope to do it more this year!
22. Finish the Mass Effect Trilogy – In Progress
Uh, I haven’t even started. Whoops. Once I finish Splinter Cell and Arkham Origins, though…
23. Cook a meal for a group – In Progress
Family members are determined for me to not forget this one—they want a meal. They don’t seem to realize the joke is on them if I’m actually trying to make edible food.
24. Freelance for five – Complete
I’m very pleased to announce I’m working freelance for five companies at this point in the year. Dreams do come true!
25. Pay off my student debt – In Progress
HAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAAHHA
