So here’s how I’m going with my resolutions/goals for this year, and mini goals for February.
Weightloss/Health
Feb goal: Attend Saturday morning boxing class every week and stop drinking beer – WIN
Okay, so I attended 3 out of 4 boxing classes – but that’s not too bad for a Saturday morning. After skipping a week due to lack of enthusiasm from my boxing buddies, I’ve made the decision to just go whether I’ll have a partner or not – I’ll tag along with another pair if necessary.
I’ve not only stopped drinking beer for all of February, but also stopped drinking alcohol entirely. I was thinking of doing Feb Fast but it’s a fundraising thing and I’m already getting people to sponsor me for the World’s Greatest Shave, so just took it on as a personal challenge. I am looking forward to having a drink on the 1st of March to be honest, but I think I’ve definitely broken the habit of having a beer every day and can go back to having a drink or two a week.
Despite being really good this month, my weight and measurements haven’t budged at all. That’s okay, as I lost a large amount of weight last month, so I’m just happy to maintain at this point. Hopefully March will see a small but steady improvement. I also feel like I’m at a happy and healthy place with food these days, which I’ll write more about this month.
New health/weightloss interim goal: In addition to my 3 group fitness sessions, add in one zombie run and at least 30 minutes of walking/cycling on the other days. I think if I can manage this (ie. 4x hour long intense exercise + 3x shorter exercise) that will be a maintainable exercise schedule for me!
Europe Trip / Money
Feb goal: Investigate extra forms of income – SORT OF
I’ve signed up for a couple of affiliate programs (but haven’t done anything with them yet), and sent off some sample photography to some friends for some advice and possible assisting work. I have to admit this has been a sort of half-hearted effort though. I think the best bet for me is creating stock templates and graphics, but that involves the kind of time investment that’s difficult when I have lots of client work to deal with (and that pays better).
This month hasn’t been fantastic in terms of saving either, as I had to take a fair chunk out of my savings to pay a bunch of big bills which seemed to come all at once. I’ve been adding in extra lately to make up for it, but things are getting a bit tight!
On the positive side, I’ve been researching the places we want to go, the best route (planning more than 3 months in Europe is super tricky with visas) and how to save money as we go. I know it’s almost a year away, but it’s fun to start planning!

New Europe trip / money interim goal: Look into CouchSurfing. I think there’s a meetup in Perth? Here is my not-very-filled-in profile if you’d like to add me.
Improving Photography
Feb goal: Investigate the best and cheapest way to light food photography at home, hopefully without having to buy any new gear – SORT OF
I’m not sure why, but every time The Boy cooks one of his masterpieces I find myself scrambling at the last minute to find props and figure out what to do with lighting.

I think playing around with props and a reflector helps a bit, but I’m still relying heavily on Photoshop. I wish I could just shoot these dishes in natural light! Perhaps I need to invest in a natural light lamp after all?
I’ve been inspired a lot by travel photography lately, and since I’m heading to Singapore in a few days I’m hoping to come back with some great shots. I think the main thing is to be bold and take heaps of photos, even if it means asking a stranger permission.
New photography interim goal: Be fearless; take more photos; observe the little things.
How are you going with your goals?
Your trip to Europe looks awesome. Don’t forget that another inexpensive option for accommodation is Airbnb (www.airbnb.com). I’ve had great experiences so far – much cheaper than most hotels and a way more personal experience :)
Ooh thanks for the tip Annie! That actually looks like a good option… some of those places are cheaper than it would cost for two of us in a hostel