A lot to do in the next 50 weeks...

So, I have a lot to do...

Before I hit the ground running, I must say that I have had a fabulous couple of weeks surrounding the big 40. From spending time with my "on vacation" husband, to a hold on homework (due to quarter break), to plenty of food and drink, and of course, to time with family and friends...it's been great and I have been so blessed with how I was able to celebrate turning 40. Truly blessed.

But now, my to do list runneth over and I need to get started. The two most significant items on the "MUST DO" list, and must be accomplished within the next 50 weeks (the time until my next birthday) include a final and significant weight loss goal (to shed the build-up of the previous 10 years) and a new career. Simple, right?! Absolutely because both are integral to the future of my family.

So it begins this week, as I try to take care of some loose ends before the next Capella quarter begins. Things like taxes, passports, general organizing, etc...and the the push for meeting the aforementioned goals.

Goal 1: Significant weight loss (and I don't want to do this again, so this has to be it) at 1.25 libs per week...this will get me to a reasonable and healthy weight no later than my 41st birthday. I am ready. I have quit the Weight Watchers program and opted for a free online program with essentially the same features. Free is good! I have a new "old lady" bike that I took out for a test run last week while the temps were reasonable...and it was great!!!! This bike will be a terrific and important tool to my weight loss goal.

Goal 2: Complete all PhD obligations by the end of the year. I have decided to put the 2nd Master's degree on hold (as much as it pains me to do so because I love studying science at this level) and concentrate on finishing the requirements for the doctoral degree. This means that I need to add more classes to each quarter, as well as complete all 3 colloquia (weekend conferences required for all learners). If I can do this, I will be done by December 30, 2011. What I will have remaining is the doctoral exam and of course, (gulp) the dissertation.

I believe that if I have completed all required coursework over the next 8 months, I will be in exceptional shape to acquire a job that will put me on my desired professional path. And I have to have faith that this is true.

So with that, I begin my last week of break with a renewed sense of optimism and hope...for a bright (and lighter) future, both personally and professionally.

I'll keep you "posted". lol

p.s. I will be posting birthday celebration pics here this week. There are some great ones!!!