this past weekend took me to two new cities: san francisco and phoenix.

that’s not entirely true – i spent eight hours in sf for work in 2009, on california ave on the 32nd floor.

on new year’s eve, i saw my sister in law and drank some bubbly. on new year’s day it was the golden gate and bay bridges, and in phoenix i wore cardinal red and experienced my first bowl game. i was especially humored by all the cactus that is somehow funnier in person (and weighs a ton).

before our trip bryan and i sat down to map out 2012 as best we could. and i decided a few things, partially because i want a more productive year, but also because i’m tired of ignoring these internal nudges that emerge and encourage me to persevere in the following areas:

i will pursue volunteering with a new focus, in an industry that fascinates and excites me (i’m thinking non profit/writing/editing/food & beverage services industries)

i will study and practice spanish with other real live humans (not just my computer) in preparation for our vacation to mexico, but also because i’ve always wanted to

i will blog once a week, and work my way up from there (gulp)

i will read the bible in some sort of organized fashion, to get through the whole thing (haven’t quite worked this one out yet)

we will host a group dinner at least once a month, inviting new friends and neighbors in for good food and conversation

we will tithe – give 10% gross off the top – first. bills and necessities come next, then luxuries

all in a giant effort to become a better rounded, eyes opened, thought and faith-driven person. what are your golden beginnings?