My neighbor's came over today to help me rearrange the front room of my studio, so I can get to my bicycle easier. They also helped me carry it down stairs and helped me get up on it. I rode it in the parking lot for over 17 minutes, giggling because it was SO exhilarating to be on the bicycle, riding it again since three years ago. I was so scared. Falling scares me, big time, because I've fallen several times this year already. But I didn't fall and I am so tickled I could face my fears and ride my bike, even if it was only for 17 minutes before I felt like I go not go another single minute. My cardio rate was 130 and I biked around for approximately 1.1 miles (fitbit data).

I plan to rest tomorrow. Busy work week ahead.

NYE is Tuesday night and I have big plans to spend it with my chosen family, which is always fun and peaceful and relaxing. We're going to play cards and maybe even go for a long drive on New Years day to visit a casino and have brunch, while we spend a little bit of money. I only plan to spend $20, which is partly brunch expenses and maybe a casino game too.

I am taking full advantage of being on winter break. Working 50+ hours a week, field placement for another 20 and homework has killed my weekends as all I do is catch up on sleep, do chores, cook and write papers. So since I came back from my vacation on the 20th I am making sure I get outside and hike whenever possible. This morning after getting my oil changed was a 6 mile hike and tomorrow will be a 7 miler followed by grocery shopping and then a visit with a friend. I am so happy this winter has been so mild and I haven't had to hike in really cold weather yet. I realize I am a much happier person when I get out into nature and have promised myself to make this a priority moving forward.