101in1001: A minor setback, major accomplishments, etc.

• Take a language class*.

I have definitely fallen behind on my study of the German language, but the good news is that my computer at work was updated and now I can listen to my German lessons while I work.  Hooray!

• Take a writing class.*

Alternative Travel Writing is my class of choice for now.  I struggle with it, but I think it will be good: The teacher is highly focused on getting published and I would very much (for my ego's sake) like to move beyond that line.  Even if "getting published" means getting a byline in the community newspaper that nobody reads.

• Buy PhotoShop/similar product.

I have my wee little hands on it!  I will become Le Graphique Designaire. 

• Download, save, print all my old journal entries in some kind of archival format.*

Ugh.  I have stalled out significantly.  SO MUCH TO PRINT.  You try spending a bunch of time with your emo, 17-year-old self and tell me if it's something you look forward to.

• Don't purchase any new clothing or books or music for 3 months (used only).* (3/1/08-6/1/08)

I don't really buy clothes, books or music that often, but it is certainly a category that falls prey to impulse shopping.  I don't shop very often, between being on the bike and having a lot to do (therefore not a lot of time to spend in stores).  ANYWAY the point is that I have been looking at this book:

for three weeks as I go to my writing class, and it's hard not to justify it--it's a novel written by a Mongolian, AND it's a small local press.  I forgot about the above commitment and picked it up last night.  I have no buyer's regret though--I just have to start over.

• Save $1 per day.* (1001/1001)

I have done this!  The question is: Do I still have to have it all saved by the end of the 1001 days?  I think the answer is no, primarily because I have to fund my trip to Australia soooomehow.

• Make yogurt 6 times. (0/6)
• Try six recipes from the Spicy Food Lover's Bible (5/6).*

This week I will finish with the cookbook and ALSO make yogurt.  I win!

It occurred to me today that I have 9.9 days per goal.  I have RIDICULOUSLY over-committed when I look at it that way.   I mean, the number of books alone is insane (read all the books I own?! Plus 43 other books?).  Oh well.  It is good to set goals.  It makes me feel good that I have to mend all my clothes, even if I'm not doing it right now.  Or that I have to give away the books I don't read.  I think that, in particular, will be a much-needed purge.  I pick up books like I'll never see another one again.  Random 1000-page tome on business etiquette, written in the 1950s?  Sure, I need that.  Book on how to cook using ration coupons from WWII?  Definitely useful today.   Le sigh.

Completed: 10 (10.1%)
I've broken into double digits!! YES!