health & fitness goals- done

I have an appointment with a new dentist for early in the new year.

That was almost too easy. I feel like I should challenge myself a bit more, so I'm adding the optional goal of taking one MORE new class at the health & fitness center before the end of 2008.

Goals starting Oct. 8 and ending on Dec. 31, 2008:

1. Establish a relationship with a new dentist and set up an appointment. I fired my last dentist and have been having trouble finding a new one that has decent hours. I'm behind on regular maintenance visits. (Set appt. on Nov. 20)

2. Do a full upper/lower body stretch EVERY day, consistently, for 2 weeks in a row. If I do a yoga DVD, this can substitute for a stretching session. (Wed. Oct. 8 -  Wed. Oct. 22)

3. Take one new class at the Health & Fitness center (one I haven't tried at this location, anyway). Options include (but aren't limited to): water aerobics, cardio kickboxing, Mat Pilates, Tai Chi, Cardio Fusion, Basic Step & Conditioning, or Meditation. Hour-long Pilates class on Nov. 19.

4. Schedule my yearly physical and come up with a written list of concerns & questions. Appointment set mid-November, list started Nov. 20).

5. Learn one new recipe, incorporating at least one vegetable and mostly or all from scratch, and make it. (beans & rice with veggie sausage on Oct. 19, roasted Brussels sprouts Oct. 23).

What I've been reading

"The Creative Habit" by Twyla Tharp. I read books on the creative process a lot, but usually from the viewpoint of writers. It was fun to see something from the perspective of a dancer and choreographer. I found out about it from Trent Hamm of "The Simple Dollar" and I see why he liked it. I also recommend this book on making time for creativity and getting disciplined about it.

and

"The One Minute Manager" by Kenneth Blanchard Ph.D. and Spencer Johnson M.D. I can see why this was a NY Time bestseller when it first came out. The critique of the usual "gotcha!" method of management really rang some bells for me. While a bit simplistic, I think the ideas about setting and reviewing goals could be really valuable for managers, employees and people who work for themselves.

My full comments on both books here.