Top List of Things to Accomplish in Colorado

I was discussing with my friend, Heather, today on a run how some people, when I tell them my goals or what I have done since graduation, probably think I am going through some quarter life crisis. They question why I would live below the poverty line working at Smoothie Shops or Candy Stores when I have college degree, or why I have moved around so much since high school.

I would be lying if I said that it wasn't frustrating working hourly paying jobs all of the time and scraping to get by, but honestly, would I want it any other way at this point in my life? I look at my friends that have "real jobs" and realize that I have the rest of my life to perform a real job. How much longer do I have the opportunity to sell smoothies or advise people on what kind of candy they should buy! Since college, I have made it a goal for myself to enjoy each day as it comes and to not worry so much about the future. I try not to worry about money and somehow always get by. I like to say I live by the motto: "Money isn't everything" or "Wealth is of the heart and mind, not of the pocket." I have always been a goal oriented person, and so yes, I do have a goal of eventually going back to graduate school, but for now, why not enjoy the ride?

Of course, since I am in this beautiful state of Colorado, I feel as though I need to make a list of things to accomplish in the next year here (not in order of importance).

#1) Skydiving-Met a friend, Kyle, at Run Group, who used to instruct up in Longmont, CO. Definitely want to experience the rush!

#2) Tattoo-This has been something I have wanted for at least two years. Want to get a tree of life to symbolize growth, life, strength, etc. on my wrist.

#3) Skiing-Considering I bought the Rocky Mountain Super Season Pass and ski gear this one is a must. It has already been accomplished, but I have made it a goal of my own to go skiing at least once a week so that I get better.

#4) Av's Game-This one sounds lame, but I havent been to a pro hockey game in what seems like forever. A tragedy really.

#5) Run a marathon-This does not have to occur in Colorado, but has been my ultimate goal since college. It needs to happen somewhere.

#6) Relay-Want to get a group of local runners together to do a relay. Ever since River 2 Sea in college where Jeff got lost, I want to do one again. haha. Great Lakes Relay 2010 for all my Michiganer friends?

#7) Roadtrip-This goal need to be accomplished multiple times for I want to go to Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico.

#8) Hot Springs-Definitely want to try these out. Have heard so much about them!

#9) Off-roading-Gotta be some people that want to join me on this one.

#10) Camping in RMNP-Have been camping at pay as you go campsites in CO but I definitely want to true experience with a backpacking adventure.

#11) Concert at Red Rocks-Everyone raves about Red Rocks being an amazing venue. Considering that I am in love with music this one is a must.

#12) Adding to the list of 14ers-Gotta at least climb Longs and a few more in the next year.

#13) Tubing-Went tubing when I first got to CO in Lyons, CO but need to get a group to go with some beers.

#14) Brew Tours- Have done New Belgium but have many more to do (Coors, Avery, def want to do the Fort Collins bike brewery tour). I mean, come on, Colorado has the most microbreweries per square mile than any other state in the US!

#15) Volunteer at Animal Shelter or homeless shelter in Denver-Service work is a HUGE goal for me in the next year. For me, giving truly is far better than receiving.

#16) Snowshoeing-Definitely at the top of my Xmas list this year. :0 )

#17) XCountry Skiing

#18) Get a job at a running store-Sounds lame, but it has always been a dream of mine to work at a running store even for just a short period of time.

#19) Horseback riding-Have gone a few times back east, but would love to try it out in Colorado! Ok, now I just need to meet some friends with horses.

#20) Visit at least three other Colorado cities/towns- Colorado Springs, Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, Salida.

#21) Sand Dunes!! Needs no explanation-Gotta get to that place!

#22) Start an inner city kids running group in Denver. This is a long term goal for me, but if I set my mind to it, I think it can be done!

Definitely will keep updating this list and documenting those that I have accomplished.

Remember: You only live once!