Last night, I gave hockey another try. This time, unlike last, there were a bunch of people there. Despite my lack of hockey skills, they were friendly and welcoming to me. I had a fun time, and I look forward to my next chance to play.

In following up on my previous statements about Uptown and the Lakes District, I decided to go to Lake Calhoun on Sunday. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny summer day. People young and old were at the lake, walking, running, biking, blading, playing volleyball, sailing – enjoying all that summer has to offer. I did a lap around the lake – in my car – and decided that I wanted to get outside and do something too. Unfortunately, I didn’t have my bike with me, so I went home and settled for a ride around Maple Grove. That sort of relates to one of my unwritten goals. I’ve been fairly ambitious as of late in trying new things. I generally express these ‘things’ as goals. You’re probably getting sick of hearing about these goal lists so often, but, hey, I’ll say what I please.

Anyhow, the newest additions to the goal list, ranging from the material to the ideal, are:

• Become a liquor connoisseur. I imagine that the best way to learn the difference between a fine spirit and mediocre booze is to take a class. In the meantime, I’ve started a small collection, based primarily on the visual appeal of the bottles and opinions expressed on epinions. The problem I see is that, for the most part, I’m not a big fan of the taste, or really even of the induced feeling. For me, I’d rather sip on a fine cognac (well, not quite as fine as I previously considered, but then not some V.S. monstrosity either).
• Figure out how best to apply my engineering education. The more I see of the business world, the more I realize how versatile Electrical Engineers are. I enjoy playing with, designing, and building technology, but sometimes I wonder if it is not merely a means to an end. What is my true calling? I am searching.
• Identify the organizations I would like to be involved with following my entrance into the “real world.” I definitely want to become active in Scouting again. I want to pass on the knowledge and experiences I treasured along my journey to Eagle Scout. I want to become involved in some sort of amateur road racing club, be it with sports cars or sport bikes. I want to become involved in business and politics. I want to read more. I want to write a book. I want to lead a fulfilling life. I want to change other people’s lives for the better. Now, the challenge lies in changing “I want” into “I will” along the path to “I have” and “I am.”