Almost there...

I've never really been one to make New Years resolutions. In fact, I've really only ever made one such resolution in my life. I went for an entire year without soda. It was a good, solid goal. Manageable, yet challenging. However, I find that most often the goals I want to set are things like be a better person, don't think about yourself as much, read your bible more, etc. Great things to strive for sure, but are they really New Years resolution material? When will I have reached my goal of being a better person? How will I know if I am finally reading my bible enough? They are just not measurable, and I struggle with that.

I think, though, that I have hit a jackpot this year. I've found something that is not only quantifiable, but that will also improve my character, keep me healthy, give me more time with God, and be a challenge to keep. Are you ready for this?

Walking. Every day.

Walking is something that I need. It gets me outside into God's great wilderness. The world that he created for us to inhabit. It gets me alone and allows me to clear my head. It recharges me - refreshes me. Walking just does something for my soul. I'm eager to begin this challenge. I don't think it will be easy. There will be days when I don't want to go out and days when the weather is less than ideal. But I do think that it will be good for me.

I've told all of you so that you can keep me accountable. I guess I'm pretty committed now. And while I don't foresee failing at this resolution, you will all be the first to know if I have.

On a separate and shorter note, I would just like to mention something about my friend, Talissa. We've been through just about everything together. Pinky's, ICC, Romania. God has blessed us with a friendship that is unlike any other. Right now she is upstairs napping in my bed, and later we are going to watch a movie and be bums on the couch. I love that. I love that we don't have to entertain each other or do any pretending. We can always just be real. It is pretty darn awesome.

So to everyone who follows, Happy New Year! 2011 holds a lot of uncertainty for a lot of people, but it also holds hope - hope in Jesus Christ. So raise your glasses and beckon in the new year with anticipation and joy.