Days 8 - 14, the second week

I got quite a bit more done in the last week, although it still didn't seem that productive. Here's a list of the things I did:

Thing 009: Started on a study guide, got the layout done and wrote a bit in the calculus section about functions.

Thing 018: I got the crossword done for that week (now at 2/143)

Thing 019: Watched my first TED video (1/390)

Thing 024: Recorded more dreams, one of which was suspected conscious hypnagogia which also kickstarted thing 003 (now at 2/143)

Thing 036: Donated a few thousand grains of rice through freerice.com (3,000/250,000)

Thing 043: Gained a few hundred more BOINC credits (15,300/100,000)

Thing 070: Started to learn the countries on a map by testing what I already knew, which was very few. I then went on to learn South America. (47/193)

So it was good compared to the week before, but still pretty average. However, I have kind of been saving a few to start tomorrow for next month, even though none of my goals state they must be completed in a calender month. Just easier to keep track of this way I guess. So next month I'm going to be starting a few '...for a month' goals - especially ones that don't get in the way, like not cracking joints, getting up early and not snacking late. ALso will buy a camera, and get started on a few of the tasks that require many things, such as learning a few origami shapes, writing a few songs and eating some bread. I'm sure there are others I'll want to get started too.

I'm now starting to learn how little I know

OK, I'm taking a quiz on how well I know the countries of the world:

http://www.lizardpoint.com/fun/geoquiz/

The quiz gives you three goes but I decided it would be cheap to allow three times. Same with random guessing. If I don't know exactly where the country is, next question it is. It doesn't tell me how much I really know if I guess, considering the challenge is to name a blank map. You can't go guessing there.

I decided I would learn a comparatively small continent first however, just to make myself feel better. I can now ace South America. It has 13 only thirteen countries, I know, but it feels great that I can name a continent.

But on to the test. Asia and middle east have some overlap, a few aren't recognised as sovereign states, and I think it misses out North America considering the small amount of countries there. Anyway, I'd hope I could get a third or something. But...well...reality is a little different...

SOUTH AMERICA: 13/13 (yay!)

AFRICA: 7/54 (what?)

ASIA: 10/32 (a little better?)

MIDDLE EAST: 4/25 (or not...)

AUSTRALIA/OCEANIA: 3/32 (and I live here...)

EUROPE: 10/48 (...)

CARIBBEAN 0/22 (ok, that's just stupid)

CENTRAL AMERICA 0/7 (as is that)

TOTAL: 47/233

....................

OK, I suck at geography. Need. To. Get. Better. Now.

Officially watching my first TED video

OK, I've watched a few before the list was created, but this is my first I've watched in the official period. And of course I started with the first in the alphabet:

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/paul_collier_shares_4_ways_to_help_the_bottom_billion.html

'4 Ways to Help the Bottom Billion.' Was it the blast of insane knowledge I was hoping for? Well, it wasn't really my favourite topic (the political and economical ways of closing the gap between poor and rich? Important, but not in my selection of Sunday Reading Topics) but it was certainly more interesting than I thought it would be. Noted in my new document to record my watching:

More interesting than I thought it would be. He himself said that he saw a comment on his video along the lines of 'Collier is not charismatic. But his arguments are compelling'. Close to the truth, although not a bad talker really.

If you're really interested in philanthropy, this would certainly be of large interest. No, it wasn't the insane blast of knowledge I was hoping for, but it was definitely a good start to my TED watching. Might provide a useful buffer for the not-so-good ones.

Writing a study guide

I can hardly say I have any expertise in writing study guides, so this will be interesting, but it is more intended for the purpose of actually hammering in the stuff I'm writing down...generally, most people will learn more by doing something rather than just reading it or listening to it.

I've tried this three times in the past, each time failing shortly after beginning. Damn. Not a good omen. But this time is different. This time, I'm starting it before the end of school, not after. So I don't have to write everything down in a few days before exams. Big difference.

I'm doing it with someone else, which is likely to make a big difference. It's always far easier to do something in groups than by yourself. Although, that hardly helped those other three times. Heh.

Anyway, it's called OLYMPUS. It's going to be grand. It's only just started, but a revolution has begun in earnest. It looks like this:

There's even a sneak preview of the content!

Scintillating stuff.

Dreaming again

I had an interesting dream/experience a night ago. I'm wondering if it is part of the way to a lucid dream? From my dream journal:

I was trying to get to sleep because I wasn't feeling very well, and I started to weave in and out of sleep. I was getting very heavy, and I imagined I was taking some safety glasses on and off, which obviously aren't real. The room started to spin around very quickly, and then I heard a bang on my door which worried me and so I promptly woke myself up.

This could have easily been a normal dream experience, but I have a funny feeling I was experiencing hypnogagia for several reasons - one, I was pretty aware of the situation around be at the time; two, I could decide when to wake myself up at will; three, the experiences are just as you might find in typical hynogagic imagery; and four, it was just after I had gotten up at about 6:30 am or so, which is optimum time for lucid dreaming.

If this was indeed the first step toward getting into a lucid dream, then I have to be happy with that. Lucid dreaming simply sounds so damn cool! Also, I think this means I can say I've officially started another task, that being number 3 - have a lucid dream. ;)

Days 1 - 7, the First Week

I didn't get much done this week because I was taking time setting this blog up and not feeling that well. I did get some dreams written down and some crosswords done though, keeping up to date with the weekly tasks.

The first dream I wrote down was very vivid, but unfortunately pretty boring for how clear it was. I mean, it starts off like this:

I was checking the forecasts at 4:00 pm for what the weather was going to be while I was inside my tent. I was also flashing between Dunedin, Timaru and Christchurch to see what the weather was actually doing...

Yes, it was about the weather - a page's worth - and that was pretty much it. Except for the gripping ending:

...I noticed Mum and Dad talking with two friends about tea tonight. Mum sad they were going somewhere, to which Dad said he could in no way make that time. Mum then replied that she had it all sorted out.

THE END

Well, I hope my goal of a lucid dream might get me more interesting dreams in the mean time.

The crossword was also ridiculously hard. Far harder than I hoped it would be. I got a bit less than half of it myself, and then had to resort to several common help methods such as online thesaurus, friends and family, and the answers. I felt especially bad looking at the answers. But I had to finish the crossword, and I couldn't finish it myself. I really hope to improve that over time, because my vocabulary is pretty poor.

THE LIST OF THINGS

Well, here's the entire list of things. First, though, the mission from dayzeroproject.com:

The Mission:
Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria:
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organising and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

Some common goal setting tips:
1. Be decisive. Know exactly what you want, why you want it, and how you plan to achieve it.

2. Stay Focused. Any goal requires sustained focus from beginning to end. Constantly evaluate your progress.

3. Welcome Failure. Frequently, very little is learned from a venture that did not experience failure in some form. Failure presents the opportunity to learn and makes the success more worthy.

4. Write down your goals. It clarifies your thinking and reinforces your commitment.

5. Keep your goals in sight. Review them frequently, and ensure that they are always at the forefront of your thinking.

My start date was actually almost nine days ago - for some reason I decided I would set this up later, which has not helped at all, but anyway...here they are:

--------------------------------------------------------

THE LIST OF 101 THINGS TO DO IN 1001 DAYS

--------------------------------------------------------

1. Build a website.
2. Play an April Fool's joke.
*3. Have a lucid dream.
*4. Stop cracking various joints for a month. (0/30)
5. Complete a significant project in Blender.
6. Read the 'Light and Matter' physics series.
7. Write pieces of music in 40 different genres. (0/40)
8. Eat 40 different types of bread. (0/40)
*9. Develop an ongoing study guide throughout my learning period.
10. Contribute significantly to at least 5 Wikipedia articles. (0/5)
11. Get driver's license.
12. Walk 20 km every day for a week. (0/7)
13. Write a useful piece of software.
14. Eat vegetarian for a month. (0/30)
*15. Read 50 new books. (0/50)
16. Create a music video for at least 5 of my compositions. (0/5)
*17. Get an Excellence endorsement for NCEA Level 3. (5/50)
*18. Do a crossword puzzle once a week. (5/143)
*19. Watch all TED videos. (9/390)
*20. Have at least $10,000 in savings for a month. (approx. $1,000/$10,000)
21. Set up a home server.
22. Create a new language.
23. Learn and overview of and the distinctions between each major engineering field, and list the (personal) pros and cons of each. (0/?)
*24. Record at least 2 dreams per week. (5/143)
25. Eat vegan for a week. (0/7)
26. Take an official IQ test.
27. Organise the computer.
28. Make a CV.
29. Create a professional-level portfolio presentation that includes at least 3 of my compositions.
30. Make cards for everyone's birthday I attend for one year.
31. Get a rock to skip at least 20 times.
32. Walk bare-footed for a week. (0/7)
33. Create a useful and/or fun piece of hardware.
34. Swim 10 km over the period of a month. (0/10)
35. Plant 101 trees. (0/101)
*36. Donate 250,000 grains of rice. (5,230/250,000)
37. Keep a pen for school/university for at least a term.
*38. Learn to play 5 songs on the piano that I consider very hard. (0/5)
39. Start a collection.
40. Read and understand 'The Road to Reality: A Complete Guide to the Laws of the Universe' by Roger Penrose.
41. Play tennis once a week on the off season. (0/approx. 25)
42. Knit something.
*43. Get 100,000 BOINC credits. (20,600/100,000)
44. Record 101 samples. (0/101)
45. Buy a camera.
46. Do a thousand-piece jigsaw puzzle alone.
47. Learn hellos, goodbyes and pleasantries in 50 different languages. (0/50)
48. Learn the international phonetic alphabet.
49. Write a review of 20 books I have read. (0/20)
50. Learn 25 origami shapes. (0/25)
51. Try 25 foreign dishes representative of the 25 countries. (0/25)
52. Construct 5 impossible shapes. (0/5)
*53. Learn the periodic table by heart. (118/118) [completed, 27/03/09]
54. Learn all meteorological cloud classifications and names.
55. Take a natural photo corresponding to the graphical form of each letter of the alphabet. (0/26)
56. Do a pointillism piece.
57. Create a new font.
58. Buy an external hard drive and back up all important files.
59. Create my own personal time capsule.
60. List possible entrepreneurial ideas, narrow down to 10 and write a detailed brief/description of each. (0/10)
61. Learn the basics of rocket propulsion and systems.
62. Visit the Art Gallery thoroughly at least 6 times. (0/6)
63. Play a round of golf.
64. Play a game of cricket.
65. Walk backwards for a day.
66. Make 10 Christmas gifts. (0/10)
67. Learn the 8-bit colours. (?/256)
68. Go to a planetarium.
69. Learn as much about extrasolar planets as possible.
*70. Recognise countries on a map. (130/193)
71. Drink 8 glasses of water a day of a fortnight. (0/14)
72. Go ice skating on a lake.
73. Sell something of my own creation.
74. Buy a midi controller.
*75. Get up before 7:00 am for a month. (25/30)
*76. Don't snack after tea for a month. (0/30)
77. Count out loud to 10,000.
78. Use a fountain pen for a month.
79. Stay in bed for a day.
80. Learn calligraphy.
81. Spend an entire 36 hours outside.
82. Paint a fence.
83. See 20 movies off the AFI top 100 movies list I have not seen. (0/20)
84. Write a poem.
85. Learn to make good sushi.
86. Write 101 entries in a 'word of the day' document. (0/101)
87. Learn CSS.
88. Learn XML.
89. Enter 10 songwriting contests. (0/10)
90. Email grandparents 25 times. (0/25)
91. Learn a magic trick.
92. See a live comedian.
93. Write 101 entries in a 'neologism of the day' document. (0/101)
94. Communicate using gestures only for a day.
95. Make a geocache.
96. Find a geocache.
97. Use memory enhancing techniques.
98. Learn to shuffle cards casino style.
99. Learn about fluid dynamics.
100. Learn how to pick a lock.
101. Start celebrating an hour before the end of 1001 days upon completion of the above 100 goals.

* - italicised is underway and boldened is finished.

START: 10:01:00 pm, Friday 13 February, 2009.

FINISH: 10:01:00 pm, 11/11/11.

----------------------------

THE END OF THE LIST

----------------------------

Thing 101: Start celebrating an hour before the end of 1001 days upon completion of the above 100 goals.

Overview: Yay!

When will this goal be completed: When I have begun a celebration only upon the completion of all other goals stated on the list.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Approximately 9:00 pm, November 11, 2011.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal. NOTHING!!! Nothing acceptable except under the most abhorrent standards, anyway. ;)

Thing 100: Learn how to pick a lock

Overview: Because it is cool.

When will this goal be completed: When I can open a locked door without a key, and without damaging the door.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 099: Learn about fluid dynamics

Overview: Because it sounds cool.

When will this goal be completed: When I have learnt the basic overview and mathematical ideas governing fluid dynamics.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 098: Learn to shuffle cards casino-style

Overview: Because it looks cool.

When will this goal be completed: When I can shuffle cards casino-style without accidentally using 'other styles'.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 097: Use memory enhancing techniques

Overview: I've always wanted to be able to remember everything that I've read. Why read some factual book when you aren't going to retain the information that it is trying to give to you?

When will this goal be completed: When I have sufficiently tried several recognised techniques for improving one's memory.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 096: Find a geocache

Overview: ...and then to go on a wild scavenger hunt yourself looking for someone else's one. (This is a conjugate to goal number 95.)

When will this goal be completed: When I have found an object through navigation instructions and then confirmed with the person who made the geocache that it is the correct object.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 095: Make a geocache

Overview: I found out about this interesting sounding hobby on another 101 blog. It sounds like a very good way to explore your surroundings. It also sounds like a good way to make someone lost...

When will this goal be completed: When I have garnered an item suitable for geocaching and then placed it somewhere for someone to find, with full instructions typical of other geocachers.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 094: Communicate using gestures only for a day

Overview: I need to improve my ability to get a point across with other means of communication as well as the English word. So this will be a fun little test to see what I'm like.

When will this goal be completed: When I have not communicated with others using speech, written word, lip reading or anything else except for gesturing for an entire 24 hours.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 093: Write 101 entries in a 'neologism of the day' document

Overview: I also really enjoy making up new words. Preferably short little ones that sound really funny. Nothing better than sitting down for a few minutes laughing at some nonsensical combination of vowels and consonants.

When will this goal be completed: When I have recorded 101 entries on separate days in a document that has made up words and a short description of why it is considered, personally, to be a good neologism.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 092: See a live comedian

Overview: I've seen a couple of standups on TV, and they are so, so damn funny. Being at a live show would surely be an even better experience. There's nothing wrong with a bit of laughter every now and again.

When will this goal be completed: When I have been in the audience of a comedic show.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 091: Learn a magic trick

Overview: I've always been interested in magic tricks, yet never really put any effort in to learn any. It would have to be a great feeling knowing that someone has witnessed you do something that is seemingly impossible, and they don't know how to do it themselves. It could feel cheap as well, not letting them know, but I'll take that risk.

When will this goal be completed: When I can satisfactorily trick someone with a reasonably complex illusion.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 090: Email grandparents 25 times

Overview: My grandparents just got a computer, so I think it would be nice to email them every now and again.

When will this goal be completed: When I have written and sent 25 emails of useful content that successfully reach my grandparents.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: Inability to receive emails on their end. Unlikely.

Thing 089: Enter 10 songwriting contests

Overview: I used to enter quite a few song contests on Acidplanet, until I found out that you had to pay taxes on the prizes if you lived outside of the US. Well, I think it's time to shove that aside, and get started on some entries again, and also find other contests outside of Acidplanet. Who knows. I might win something.

When will this goal be completed: When I have entered 10 separate songwriting contests – being either remix or original song contests – to the highest standard I can do.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 088: Learn XML

Overview: Same with CSS. I'm not even sure what this one is for. Better find out.

When will this goal be completed: When I can use XML to a sufficient standard.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 087: Learn CSS

Overview: A very useful skill to have when dealing with the Internet, I've heard, so I really think I need to learn this.

When will this goal be completed: When I can use CSS to sufficient standard.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 086: Write 101 entries in a 'word of the day' document

Overview: There are a whole bunch of words that sound cool. It's time I've paid them tribute. And if I can, I'll find the guy who invented those words. Like twee, meaning charmingly odd. 'Twee: charmingly odd'. The word is so incredibly fitting of its definition!

When will this goal be completed: When I have recorded 101 entries on separate days in a document that has words and a short definition and description of why it is considered, personally, to be a good word.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 085: Learn to make good sushi

Overview: Sushi is one of the most delicious foods on the planet. Really, really incredibly tasty stuff. Learning to make it would be brilliant. Then it would be sushi whenever I want. Yum.

When will this goal be completed: When I can make sushi that I consider to be nice without the aid of person or recipe.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 084: Write a poem

Overview: Something I've always wanted to do properly. And I mean a good and reasonably long poem. Not a small haiku or something, even though they are still very nice and symbolic to read. We always did those acrostic poems at school, and that's about as far as I've got. So I am finally resolving to get one done.

When will this goal be completed: When I have written a poem of at least 3 stanzas, and shown to someone else who thinks it of sufficient quality.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 083: See 20 movies off the AFI top 100 movie list I have not seen

Overview: I really don't see that many movies, and there are so many great movies that I want to see. I don't know why I don't see many. But I think it's about time why so many people acclaim these movies on this list.

When will this goal be completed: When I have fully viewed 20 movies on the AFI top 100 list that I have never seen before.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 082: Paint a fence

Overview: Just to get a bit of good old-fashioned work done. Not something that I really do too often.

When will this goal be completed: When I have contributed significantly to the high-quality painting of a fence.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 081: Spend an entire 36 hours outside

Overview: Something I've never even thought about before...staying outside without any shelter for a night. This is to give a tiny insight into what it's like for people who never have shelter, and to also 'sleep with nature'.

When will this goal be completed: When I have not gone inside any kind of shelter for a full 36 hours.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 080: Learn calligraphy

Overview: Calligraphy looks really awesome. Even just using the pen without knowing what you're doing can make your stuff look really fancy without trying. Well, I think I'll make sure that my stuff does look fancy, by making sure I do know what I'm doing.

When will this goal be completed: When I can use a calligraphy pen to write to an acceptable standard.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 079: Stay in bed for a day

Overview: This is kind of a contradiction to getting out of bed before 7:00 am. The difference here, though, is that the 7:00 am task is intended to break a bad habit, where this is a one off thing to try something I've never done before.

When will this goal be completed: When I have stayed in bed for a full day, not getting up between when I fall asleep one day, and wake up two days later.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 078: Use a fountain pen for a month

Overview: These pens are kind of cool. And if I use such a fancy thing, there is no way I am allowed to lose it. Two birds with one stone, maybe.

When will this goal be completed: When I have used only a fountain pen for school or university for a month.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 077: Count out loud to 10,000

Overview: Huh. What the hell. I don't know what the highest I've counted is, but certainly not this high. Actually, one could say that this is a good test for concentration and determination. Yes, that reason will do.

When will this goal be completed: When I have counted every number to 10,000 out loud without any pauses.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 076: Don't snack after tea for a month

Overview: It really is not healthy at all to eat a bunch of stuff, and then go straight to bed afterwards. This task is very similiar in ways to the get up before 7:00 am task.

When will this goal be completed: When I have not eaten any snacks after I have eaten dinner for the night.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 075: Get up before 7:00 am for a month

Overview: I always get up to late, and have to rush to whatever morning appointment I have, whether it be school or tennis or something else. This also has the implication that I must go to bed earlier. Another good idea.

When will this goal be completed: When I have gotten up and dressed before 7:00 am for a month.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 074: Buy a midi controller

Overview: At the moment, when I make music, I have to painstakingly draw in every single note for every single synth sound that I want in my song. It would be so much easier if I could instead trigger the synth sounds on my computer whenever I play a little keyboard – and in making it easier, there will be MUCH more creativity coming out. So this is very important.

When will this goal be completed: When I have acquired a midi controller that is compatible with my current music software.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: Incompatibility with current software. Very unlikely.

Thing 073: Sell something of my own creation

Overview: Whether it be a piece of music, a useful program or something else, selling your own creation would be very, very satisfying because of the fact that someone thinks your works are good enough to part with their money...another reason is because they are parting with their money. Heh. Anyway, it is also another way to get started on entrepreneurship. Don't know why it took so long to think this one up, actually.

When will this goal be completed: When something I have created is sold for an appropriate value for genuine reason of liking the product.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 072: Go ice skating on a lake

Overview: This just sounds like a fun thing to do. There isn't any noise or restrictions like there is at an ice skating rink as well.

When will this goal be completed: When I have spent at least one hour ice skating on a lake.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: Lack of available lakes within reachable distance. Unlikely.

Thing 071: Drink 8 glasses of water a day for a fortnight

Overview: I've heard that drinking this amount of water is very good for you...then again, I've also heard that there is no evidence to suggest that it is. Well, I know that a glass of water is very refreshing anyway, and I really do need to drink more of it, considering that I'm absolutely nowhere near the 8 glasses to worry about whether or not there is truth in the statement or not.

When will this goal be completed: When I have drunk 8 glasses of at least 250 mL each day for fourteen days.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 070: Recognise countries on a map

Overview: It's really not good when you take a quiz on the subject and you can only answer the first level questions out of three levels. You'd think I'd know more about the geographical locations of the countries in our world. But no, I don't. I really need to be able to recognise where things actually are.

When will this goal be completed: When I can look at any unlabeled country on a world map and name all internationally recognised sovereign states, either in English or its native language.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 069: Learn as much about exoplanets as possible

Overview: It would be great, in a couple of decades time or so, to open a jar you had hidden away that contained the most important and interesting items to you when you made it, and compare it to how much you have evolved since then. So I think it's a great idea to do this myself, and to place all the things that interest me most in there now.

When will this goal be completed: When I have placed important items into a container, sealed it and hidden it away to be found at least 20 years from now.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, better later when I have more idea of the important stuff.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 068: Go to a planetarium

Overview: I've always wanted to go to one of these things. A museum-type place that is made for space. I don't have a clue where I'll find one, but it's certainly about time that I go to one of these things.

When will this goal be completed: When I have visited a planetarium for no less than 90 minutes.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: Lack of planetarium in reachable places. Very possible. Will research this later.

Thing 067: Learn the 8-bit colours

Overview: There are a whole bunch of colours that I've never heard of even in the basic 8-bit set, and I've always liked being able to point to something and call it aquamarine, not blue. So I think I'll extend this range of different colour names.

When will this goal be completed: When I can recall, by looking at any 8-bit colour, either its official name or its hexadecimal notation.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 066: Make 10 christmas gifts

Overview: They say 'it's the thought that counts', and while sometimes people can use that as an excuse to buy cheap stuff, I really intend to hammer that home, spending my own time rather than money on gifts for people at Christmas.

When will this goal be completed: When I have created 10 gifts for others intended for Christmas Day (preferably given out, but not necessary – can give out on later Christmas).

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 065: Walk backwards for a day

Overview: When I was walking home from something one day, I started to walk backwards so I could keep my eye on these nasty dogs. Then I thought how ludicrously fun it would be to walk backwards for a day, and so I really have to put this onto the list.

When will this goal be completed: When from the time I have awoken to the time I go to sleep, I have walked at least 2.5 km backwards.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 064: Play a game of cricket

Overview: For the same reasons as golf. Haven't played a game in about 5 years, and once again I think it would be very fun to play a game once in a while. Especially because I like watching the games on TV as well.

When will this goal be completed: When I have played a full game, all innings, of either a 20/20, one day or test match game.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 063: Play a round of golf

Overview: I used to play golf, about 5 years ago, and haven't played a single round since. I quit it because I played entire rounds too often for me – too long each round to be playing all the time – but the odd round every now and again should be pretty good.

When will this goal be completed: When I have played all 18 holes of any golf course of at least 5,000 metres.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 062: Visit the Art Gallery (thouroughly) at least 6 times

Overview: I need more exposure to different art forms. I get plenty of exposure to the music art form, but I need to get out more and see some of the best painters and sculptors out there. So the Art Gallery in town is the best place to start.

When will this goal be completed: When I have spent no less than 90 minutes at the Art Gallery in Christchurch (or other gallery central to other cities) 6 times during the period.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time for all 6, best spaced out.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 061: Learn the basics of rocket propulsion and systems

Overview: Because I'm very interested in space and the colonisation of it, I really should learn more about the vehicles that get us there. I've seen masses of strange terms being chucked around at the nasaspaceflight.com forum, and I think it's about time that I understood most of what they say.

When will this goal be completed: When I can sufficiently understand a conversation talking about rocket propulsion and systems, and can also clearly define the basic terms and things related to the subjects.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, maybe start during first half somewhere.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 060: List possible entrepreneurial ideas, narrow down to 10 and write a detailed brief/description of each

Overview: As I have said, I'm very interested in these entrepreneurial activities, and the best way to add vigour to these interests further is to start acting upon them right away. So this list of possible business ideas will kick start the possible journey down that path.

When will this goal be completed: When I have a comprehensive list of good business ideas, narrowed down to ten and a description and brief of at least 500 words on each.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, late 2009/early 2010 would be very good.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 059: Create my own personal time capsule

Overview: It would be great, in a couple of decades time or so, to open a jar you had hidden away that contained the most important and interesting items to you when you made it, and compare it to how much you have evolved since then. So I think it's a great idea to do this myself, and to place all the things that interest me most in there now.

When will this goal be completed: When I have placed important items into a container, sealed it and hidden it away to be found at least 20 years from now.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, better later when I have more idea of the important stuff.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 058: Buy an external harddrive and backup all important files

Overview: I've heard of plenty of people who have lost all their important photos and music and so on because their harddrive died, and yet I just see it as one of those 'it won't happen to me' things. This is not a good attitude to have when talking about electronics, and so it is an almost necessity to back up all of my most important stuff just in case it actually does happen to me.

When will this goal be completed: When an external harddrive has been purchased and filled up with the most important stuff from my laptop.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Better sooner than later.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 057: Create a new font

Overview: I've always wanted to do this, but never got around to it. I want to do a messy one, based off my handwriting. Not a neat one based off of my handwriting. Because that would be lying.

When will this goal be completed: When I have created a font that utilises current font technology.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 056: Do a pointillism piece

Overview: The most interesting art technique that I've heard of, where you create a picture entirely out of dots. I've always thought the idea sounds cool, so I thought it would be a good idea to actually try it out.

When will this goal be completed: When I have finished a pointillism piece of acceptable quality.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 055: Take a natural photo corresponding to the graphical form of each letter of the alphabet

Overview: As said in the camera section, it's great to have a visual record of life in general. To spur the creation of these records, it's time to become extremely observant of the world around me. Which is why I've chosen to challenge myself to finding a completely unedited and natural scene for every letter of the alphabet.

When will this goal be completed: When I have picture evidence of 26 photos taken by myself that each correspond to a different letter of the alphabet.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: Lack of camera access. Unlikely.

Thing 053: Learn the periodic table by heart

Overview: The first 20 or so are in permanent memory, but because I take chemistry I'd like to take that a bit further. A challenge to memorise all the elements in order.

When will this goal be completed: When upon testing I can recall all the elements in order, and pick random elements given atomic number.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 054: Learn all meteorological cloud classifications and names

Overview: I had a very strong interest in meteorology. It's not quite as strong now, but I'm still interested enough to be joined up to a weather forum and so on. One thing I used to proud myself on was cloud names. Cumulonimbus. Cirrostratus. Even mammatus! But now, pretty much because of the vastly more experienced users on the weather forum, I've seen a couple of names chucked around that I'd never heard of. Lenticular? What's that? I don't have a clue, and so this is a quest to return my knowledge to a good ratio for my age, and maybe to add extra fuel that might further spark my interest back to former levels.

When will this goal be completed: When upon testing I can recognise a majority of clouds shown to me by picture.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 052: Construct 5 impossible shapes

Overview: In this illusion book, there is a picture of a piece of wood that when viewed from a certain angle, it looks exactly like the impossible triangle. Very interesting, and I'd like to construct these so I can have a deep look at these weird shapes.

When will this goal be completed: When 5 shapes have been constructed that when looked at from at least one angle resemble a shape physically impossible.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 051: Try 25 foreign dishes representative of the 25 countries

Overview: Extend the reach of my palette. I really like tasting new and weird food. I like most food. Especially exotic and foreign food. I haven't had much of that exotic or foreign food however. It would be good to find a few new favourite foods from all these different places, and maybe even learn a little bit of culture behind the dishes.

When will this goal be completed: When I have tried and then written a short opinion on 25 dishes that correspond to 25 foreign countries.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: Inability to access variety of national foods. Very unlikely.

Thing 050: Learn 25 origami shapes

Overview: People have always shown me all these fancy things they've made from paper, and I've always been behind. I think it's about time to develop a little bit of mechanical and cognitive skill...or just to show these paper maestros up.

When will this goal be completed: When I can recall how to make 25 origami shapes when tested.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 049: Write a review of 20 books I have read

Overview: Practice for expressing my opinion on paper. I certainly don't intend to write in a standard format kind of way, and I really want this to be a good persuasion exercise. Plus, it's always good to keep a good record of what you've read.

When will this goal be completed: When I have finished reviews of books I have fully read at 300 words minimum.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 048: Learn the international phonetic alphabet

Overview: Always has sounded interesting when I first saw those funny upside-down e's. This could come in useful, although I'm not particularly sure what that would be yet. But it definitely sounds fancy anyway. Maybe if I become a dictionary compiler.

When will this goal be completed: When I can pronounce any word (English, foreign or neologistic) given to me spelt in the phonetic alphabet.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 047: Learn hellos, goodbyes and pleasantries in 50 different languages

Overview: I used to take French, and did so for three years, but I got sick of it because it seemed a waste of a subject when for me personally there were more useful ones out there. However, I still like hoarding up small bits of vocabulary in a bunch of different languages, and it can be useful to have the very basics in a wide range if you happen to meet foreign people.

When will this goal be completed: When I can recall, through someone else testing me, greetings, goodbyes and a couple of other small pleasantries in 50 languages of choice.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 046: Do a thousand-piece jigsaw puzzle alone

Overview: I've never done one of these by myself before. But jigsaw puzzles are a really good way to pass the time, and to test out one's spatial ability. So I think I need to get down and puzzle one out alone, and just looking back impressively on one you have done all by your lonesome is not a massively small reason for this being here.

When will this goal be completed: When a 1000-piece or greater jigsaw has been assembled without any help.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 045: Buy a camera

Overview: I'd really like to take pictures of life as it goes by, and also to map progress of this list. The old mantra of a picture worth a thousands words is certainly true.

When will this goal be completed: When I have a camera of my own of any value.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: As soon as possible.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 044: Record 100 samples

Overview: Another sound related goal, but this one is aimed at listening to the world around us and picking out some inspiring and unusual sounds that one would normally miss in everyday life. Whether they are used in my music or not, there should be plenty of satisfaction gained from turning the ear a little more toward nature.

When will this goal be completed: When there are 100 personally recorded samples on my computer.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 043: Get 100,000 BOINC credits

Overview: Especially the SETI@Home project. Discovery of extraterrestrial life and intelligence is one of the major goals of space exploration – the other being human colonisation of space – and so doing as much as I can, even if that is processing unlikely radio signals, is certainly worth it.

When will this goal be completed: When BOINCstats has recorded 100,000 total credits over all BOINC projects.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 042: Knit something

Overview: I don't have a clue why I am putting this on the list. But I guess one of the reasons people do the 101 in 1001 list is to dig out new potential interests. I've never liked the idea of knitting something, but considering I've never done it before, it might be my new career...hehe. Well, whatever the case, I'm not going to put anything so preposterously far away from my interests on this list anywhere again.

When will this goal be completed: When I have knitted something of acceptable quality.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 041: Play tennis once a week in the off-season

Overview: Tennis is good fun, but I always stop playing it when the summer season ends. End up out of practice by the time the next season rolls around, and it's also good for a bit of running around.

When will this goal be completed: When I have practiced tennis once a week between the end and start of two consecutive seasons for at least half an hour per session.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any full off-season.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 040: Read and understand 'The Road to Reality: A Complete Guide to the Laws of the Universe' by Roger Penrose

Overview: I've stopped and started on this book many times, much like the Light and Matter physics series, yet I've always wanted to get through it. It's a very tough read, but also exceptionally interesting, so this really deserves a goal on its own.

When will this goal be completed: When I have completed the book and can then sufficiently discuss the ideas presented in it.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, maybe around university beginning time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 039: Start a collection

Overview: Preferably a reasonably original one. I have a small stamp collection, but I'm not really interested in stamps all that much and I haven't looked at the thing for quite a few years now, so it's hardly a collection worth calling a collection anymore. My mum collected a few coins, which is a little more interesting but still far too common. There should be something weird and wonderful to collect out there.

When will this goal be completed: When a collection of at least 50 items and a net weight of at least 2 kg has been personally collected by me (i.e., cannot buy a pre-collected set).

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 038: Learn to play 5 songs on the piano that I consider 'very hard'.

Overview: This sounds very ambiguous, and it probably is, but I know exactly what this means...clarify later. But 'very hard' definitely means very hard, and this is here to improve my playing skills for both assessments and other. I'm not sure if I've been improving heaps as of late, mainly learning pieces that are well within my range, and so this is a commitment to break that and to learn to perform pieces well outside my usual comfort zone.

When will this goal be completed: When five considerably difficult pieces of piano music can be performed fluently by me.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 037: Keep a pen for school/university for at least a term

Overview: I'm terrible at keeping small objects for use at school, and consistently have to ask others to borrow theirs for whatever I have lost. Pens are the most important and most commonly lost of these items. It isn't unheard of to have lost at least a pen a day for a week. So I really do think I need to do something about this.

When will this goal be completed: When I have kept and used the same pen at school or university for an entire term.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 036: Donate 250,000 grains of rice

Overview: No, I'm not buying all of those grains myself. The amazing website www.freerice.com donates 10 grains of rice to impoverished countries when you correctly answer questions in their quizzes of vocabulary, mathematics, languages and so on. It's a two-edged sword – helping those in need as well as learning some new stuff at the same time.

When will this goal be completed: When the website www.freerice.com has recorded 250,000 grains of rice for my computer.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: Termination of programme. Possible.

Thing 035: Plant 100 trees

Overview: Yes, I'm a global warming skeptic, but there are many other environmental problems in this world – not least, carbon dioxide pollution and deforestation of the rain forests. So I'm putting this down here to do my bit to help these problems. Also, it probably wouldn't hurt to get just a little bit more fresh air.

When will this goal be completed: When I have planted 100 trees in the period, and made sure they have stayed alive for two weeks.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Ongoing throughout period.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 034: Swim 10km over the period of a month

Overview: I've been having massive gaps between each time I swim, and I think it would be a god idea to do a little bit more, if not for the reason of getting more exercise.

When will this goal be completed: When I have swum 10 km over the period of a month, using an internationally recognised stroke.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 033: Create a useful and/or fun piece of hardware

Overview: The original wording was 'Invent a useful piece of hardware'. I modified the two key words for these reasons: Inventing something implies an original piece of work, and although I like the idea of having made something completely new, I've always been far more interested in the end result over the actual method and because of that I don't think I will yet have the skill set to develop a completely original piece of hardware. The second keyword was broadened from 'useful' to 'useful and/or fun' for simply that reason – to broaden the potential items I could make. Anyway, especially with these modifications, this should be a good way to do something I've never done – create something that is actually something.

When will this goal be completed: When a workable piece of hardware has been made by me, that can be used for either work or recreation.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, early enough to give me time from start to finish.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 032: Walk bare-footed for a week

Overview: It's supposed to be good for your feet to let them breathe every so often, so I'll take that a bit further. I've seen a few people that seem to like walking bare-footed, so it can't be that hard...

When will this goal be completed: When I have not put on any footwear for a week, along with a reasonable amount of walking.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 031: Get a rock to skip at least 20 times

Overview: I quite enjoy skipping rocks, and it's always good to brag about how many skips you've managed to make.

When will this goal be completed: When a rock has made 20 clearly discernible skips across water.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time.

Foreseeable problems: Near impossibility of 20 skips. Unlikely, though I don't know.

Thing 030: Make cards for everyone's birthday I attend for one year

Overview: Used to do this, but got out of practice. I think it's a good gesture to spend your time making cards for people rather than buying them.

When will this goal be completed: When I have made a birthday card for everyone I see on their birthday once each, and give them their cards.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time before the last 365 days begins.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 029: Create a professional level portfolio presentation that inlcudes at least 3 of my compositions

Overview: Not only do I want to have a bunch of music that I have made, I want to showcase it in a professional manner. This will be useful for school assessments, and also useful for practicing the creation of presentation of work, whether it is for music or otherwise.

When will this goal be completed: When a portfolio containing at least 3 of my songs has been finished and is suitable for presenting to people, including school.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: 2009 would be useful.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 028: Make a CV

Overview: These things are necessary when finding jobs, and so it is a very good idea to make one. I don't really know what a CV is supposed to contain in the first place, so I will be both learning what it is before compiling it.

When will this goal be completed: When I have a CV that is usable for presenting achievements to potential employers.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: 2009.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.

Thing 027: Organise the computer

Overview: When I first got my laptop, I wanted to keep everything as organised as possible, but every time I went to save a file I couldn't find a suitable folder to put it in, and so everything ballooned from there. This is an attempt to both keep everything in a manageable and clear format, and also to delete anything that I don't need. I've always had a problem with deleting even the most useless of things, so this should help.

When will this goal be completed: When files and folders have been organised andappropriately deleted to good standard.

A suitable time for beginning the goal: Any time, although the earlier the better.

Foreseeable problems: There are no reasonable unique problems that will hamper the completion of this goal.