Wait, it's almost 2012? Really?

Oh my, how time flies!

Feels like just yesterday, I was sitting at my computer, coming up with a list of resolutions for 2011! Hmmm...I need to look back through my blog and see if I can find those!

So while I'm on the topic of New Year's Resolutions, here are a few I have come up with for 2012 (I can't even believe I'm SAYING that!):

• Become financially healthy - I wouldn't say that I'm the most financially unhealthy person. It's just that I know I've got some work to do. This year, I want to focus on really paying down my debt, and starting to save for my future (our future, if you count the hubby!). In particular, I really want to start investing my money into stocks and IRAs and mutual funds and all of that other fun stuff. Having just turned 27 a few weeks ago, I'm starting to realize that it is never too soon to start saving.
• Sign up for my first 5k - technically, I already did this on December 16th, during my company's 1st annual 5k Fun Run at Memorial Park! But I don't really count that since it was work-related. I know I'm never going to be the world's fastest runner, or even be able to endure a marathon, but I think a 5k is a doable goal. I've been working on increasing my endurance at the gym for the past few months. I'm up to about 2.3 miles now, so I've almost hit my goal! I know I can do it. Some days, I'm really on the ball, and others I just can't seem to get into gear. But no more excuses! I also really want to sign up for the next Warrior Dash This will happen in 2012.
• Tap into my creativity - I know that I could be so much more creative than I am. I used to be so creative as a child. What happened?? I guess life, and more practical pursuits such as going to school and getting a job got in the way. Somewhere deep down, is a creative little girl just itching to come out! This could mean anything - painting, crafts, cooking, baking, photography, whatever!!
• Blog more - I know I say this every year, but this time, I mean it! I did do a good job of blogging more in 2011, but I still don't write nearly as often as I should. Next year, I'd really like to challenge myself to write every day. Or at least once a week. That way, when it comes time to send out Christmas cards in 2012, I'll be able to write one badass Christmas newsletter!
• Go to Las Vegas - I've always felt that this is something that should be done before kids. Even if I just got to go for a weekend, that would be enough for me. We'll see what materializes. 
• Get a promotion at work - considering I just started my job in November, I'm not sure how realistic this is. But I'm going to work my ass off to see that it happens!
• Budoir Photoshoot - I've ALWAYS wanted to do this!! And definitely before I have kids.
• Buy a house. Sam and I are working on that one as we speak. 
• Buy a new car. Preferably sooner than later!
• Start horseback riding again - the problem with this is that I'm pretty much at the point where I'm past lessons and need to own my own horse so I can train properly on my own animal. Except I'm not at the point where I'm financially able to afford a horse. See bullet point number one.
• Work on my writing - I'd really like to kick off my freelance writing career if possible this year. I've always loved writing and am at the point where I want to see how far I can take it.
• Get in shape - again, I say this every year. I definitely slimmed down quite a bit in 2011 compared to 2010, but I'm ready to take it to the next level.

Okay, so those are my goals thus far for 2012. I think they are all attainable. My friends and family often give me a hard time for being such an "overachiever" and tell me I'm too hard on myself, but I firmly believe that success is earned, and if you don't set goals for yourself and work towards them, you will never be successful and life. And success is what makes people happy! So there you have it. We'll see where 2012 takes me!