I recently started a new project: transcribing ALL of my journals into a digital format, There are a few reasons for this, not the least of which is my not always glamorous handwriting. The main reason though is to go back and re-read all my entries to see how much progress I feel I have have achieved since I began keeping journals over twenty years ago. At first I let a cloud of negativity hover over me when I began realizing how far back my struggle with debt goes, and how I am still living in the same apartment in the same situation I've been in for longer than I care to ponder. As I continued to read on, however, it dawned on me I have made a lot more headway than I first thought. You see, years ago, I dated this girl I was madly in love with, it was the longest continuous relationship I've ever had. She left me and at the time, for months, all my entries were about how much I missed her, how I must have done something wrong (admittedly no person in a relationship is perfect) , on and on, whining and wallowing in my own self pity. Looking back it's pretty pathetic, and maybe it's time that's made things better, but I sincerely believe if me now went back and met past me I would probably slap myself (that is if such an act wouldn't collapse the whole space-time continuum). I am a much stronger person now. Positive step one! Another positive step is that, while yes I am still in debt in the same place, I am actively working on improving my situation instead of just sitting around doing the same things to see what happens. Reading through all I've written is strengthening and renewing my resolve to keep going forward and push on to achieve what I really want.

     Speaking of renewing things... I recently replaced a lot of parts on my road bike. Wider handlebars, a better stem, cassette, chain, chain rings, brake pads, rear rack, new panniers. I plan on doing two or three bike tours this year and want things to be as trouble free as possible. I've been investing in better tires lately too. Quality puncture resistant tires, they cost more money, but so far they've been great and hardly any flats. Worth the extra money to me! With all these upgrades though there's still one more I really need to invest in...

You know you want one

     The entertainment recommendation this time around is a British show I've recently started watching entitled Black Mirror. It's a sci-fi anthology series with great plots and story twists in every episode I've seen so far. I really don't want to spoil anything, but I can tell you I think this is one of the best shows I have ever seen in the science fiction genre.

     Now for the real reason I know everyone reads this blog: SELFIE TIME! Just a random overhead shot, came out a bit more interesting than I thought it would.

Selfie #5

     Until next time, remember, everyone's got problems...