This past year I had lofty personal ambitions. Namely I dreamed that I’d train hard and pull great results in the Cat 3 Texas Cyclocross scene.
But the reality is, I’m one half of a two-person team dedicated to caring for seven-month-old twins who posses no mental capacities to do it themselves. I would never have it any other way, and I’m happy beyond words to be a dad. 2007 is going to be tough to top.
So as ‘08 approached, I found myself re-evaluating what’s most important to my family as well as me.
Be more active – no excuses…we all say it. And Katie – she’s always worrying about her thunder thighs (I assure her it’s a Doyle trait that she will outgrow). By dancing with the kids, playing, walking to the park and (naturally) cycling with them, we will all be healthier. When temps reach a steady 70º in the early AM, I’ll be carting the babes to day camp in this. Could be longer until they’re old enough for a helmet – some states even require that they be at least one.
Eat better - This is tough (see the 50% part above). In addition to smart, smaller and more frequent gnoshing, I’ve resolved to try one new, healthy recipe a week in my work-from-home-house-dad role. Something fast, good for you and a decent size so there will be leftovers. I’ll be posting recipes here. I’m thinking about a daily calorie counter, too (my sweet tooth and beer tooth will suffer). Anyone have a good online suggestion?
Develop new business - If eating better is tough, this is Mr T tough. I’ve always been good at presenting my creative work. It’s just finding the clients that makes me weak in the knees. Persistence and dedication for Stalelife is key in the new year.
Sweat equity - I was raised by sleeve rollers – men in Dickies who work on their houses and cars. Women who make the most of what they have (and work on the house, too). I want for those times in my own life. I can do it…I’ve had amazing teachers.
NEW! JoeDoyle.com - My friend and best man Patrick designed this site. But I’d like to do it myself this next go (with his help, I’m sure). I’ve started fooling around with iWeb. There are great features and sucky limitations. But even today, as I received two DVDs full of images from my mom and sister, I realize a portal where they can post images and movies of their own would be cool as hell.
They say a good way to reach your goals is to let your family and friends in on them. People who can help keep you accountable.
Ahem.
And cyclocross season, well, there will be others. Maybe this year, maybe not. Thankfully there are 40+, 50+ even 60+ categories for the old guys.
Better yet, there are juniors categories for those with ultra-fast thunder thighs.
