As has become my annual tradition, I like to write a quick post just sharing what I’m up to. I do this post on this particular day for a few reasons. First, because it was on this fateful day way back in 2006 (12 years ago!) that I wrote my very first blog post on this site. The second reason is that I absolutely love the 4th of July (Independence Day). I love it because I’m an American, but I also love it because I love what it represents. On that day, a small group signed their name to a piece of paper. In and of itself, that’s not a real big deal. People sign stuff all the time.
But this action meant so much more. By signing that piece of paper, this group declared that sovereignty and independence were more important than the tyranny of a state run amok. And as an American who takes pride in what we’ve been able to accomplish in this world in such a short time, that inspires me. But there’s a deeper level that I like to focus on as well. It’s not just about the founding of America and the ideals that make this country great.
There’s a meta-story here. A story about the story. And that is this. Making the decision to make a radical change, writing that decision down, and teaming up with other like-minded people who agree with you and your goals is one of the only ways to accomplish BIG things. Never forget that when this document was signed, these men were pledging their Lives, their Fortunes, and their sacred Honor.
So it was more than words, it was words backed by massive action. And that is the part many people forget when they are creating their own goals. You should write down what you’re feeling and what you want – but then be prepared to go make it happen by putting in work.
And that’s what inspires me about today. It’s a day where we see what’s possible in this world. When you put your mind to doing what others tell you is impossible.
Now, for the personal updates.
Rebecca and I celebrated our 4th year of marriage back in April! She’s the most talented person I’ve ever met and I’m more excited every day watching her grow in her talents and ambitions. Next up, she’ll be launching her own interior design/decorator business, something she is truly passionate about (and VERY GOOD at). We went on a trip to Alaska (a 10-day cruise – my first cruise ever!) and we were able to bring my Mom and sister which was really special. Alaska is breathtaking. I had a blast. The picture attached with this post is of Rebecca and me during our great Alaska adventure.
In what may be the biggest miracle of all miracles an entire year has gone by and I weigh the same weight! I don’t think that’s ever happened. I still weigh 208 pounds and love working out and going to the gym and walking. I am sure if I tighten up and really focus, I can get myself down to maybe 195 or so. But right now I am content just being a normal person.
I did get that skin surgery last year and it was relatively uneventful. I have put up surgery this year for the next skin removal go-round. When I do it again, I will do the stomach area to try to get rid of the largest amount of skin in one area.
In other news, I am building a home for myself back on my family estate. It’s pretty crazy. I bought the lots right next to my Mom’s house (which is my Grandparents home they built in 1952). So, I’m back on the street where I grew up. Well, I will be. As long as the builders get this thing done on time, we should be in the house by the end of the year. I am excited about that because it means I’m finally done moving. I have a home that Rebecca designed (so it’s gonna be beautiful). And the kind of person I am… I just love being home. That is gonna do wonders for my psyche, knowing that for the rest of my life I’ll be in one place.
The other thing I love is that I’m getting a very large space above the garage to serve as my office. It’s even gonna be sound-proof. I’m gonna do a lot more videos, podcasts, and other media from in there. I even have my own exit from my outside to the backyard via a staircase. So, I can have guests come up the back without coming through the house.
My business has been growing rapidly but also we are working hard to always improve it. There’s been a lot of changes in the industry and we are working overtime to adjust. It’s the nature of the business to always be in some sort of change or flux and that’s probably part of the excitement that drives me. But it’s also tiring at times.
We’ve grown so much and that growth presents new challenges and as an “Achiever” I am always up for new challenges. I can’t wait to complete the goals and vision I have for 2018 so we can move into 2019 with greater precision and detail.
Ok, I think that’ll be enough of a “journal” update for this year. I look forward to next years update. Thanks for reading as always!