To expand my toolset by adding at least 3 new tools and learn how to conduct a few more basic home repairs. UPDATE: I have added a rubber mallet and a stud finder which I've needed on many occasions. Now I just need to find something that needs fixing! UPDATE: My girlfriend and I installed some window blinds. Pretty easy, but it saved us over $100 and we learned a lot about window frame structure. UPDATE: All the blinds are installed! I've been working on repairing a towel rack... I hate drywall. Oh, I finally used my new rubber mallet, although it was for the mundane task of sealing up paint cans, hopefully I'll get more useful tasks for it when the furniture starts coming in this week. My final goal will be to instal a new flush mechanism on the toilet. UPDATE: The flush mechanism is installed and seems to be working okay (might need some calibrating). I also installed a dryer and bought a miter box and saw combo for cutting up thresholds and curtain rods. I'm ready to call this skill completed!

To learn simple sewing skills necessary for mending clothing by sewing at least 5 articles of clothing. PROGRESS: I repaired the little retaining loop on the back of one of my ties. I'm also collecting buttons so that I can repair an old sweater I have for sick days. PROGRESS: I fixed a couple more items including a sock and a travel neck pouch! Next up are my sweater and a couple leather pouches I've dreamed up. I'll call this skill completed when I've built a tiny little sewing kit.

To obtain a wider range of concealment clothing (jackets and shirts) and improve ability to draw from concealment. UPDATE: Well, I got a few new pieces of clothing that seem to be working pretty well. I'll probably take a look at the jackets and sweaters at my local Goodwill store since they seem to have some good finds. Kohl's is just too expensive for this sort of stuff. UPDATE: I'm going to the state capitol (AGAIN) tomorrow to defend my right to CCW on campus. I've started doing a little practice drawing (with snap caps) which tells me I still need a lot more work.

To improve my knowledge of common plant diseases and pests. Also, to learn to better utilize small garden plots. UPDATE: Plot has been purchased, now I'm off to buy seeds!

To better maintain all edged tools and create an emergency sharpening kit. PROGRESS: I've bought a couple small ceramic stones and I have some scrap leather that I can fashion into a holder.

To improve my: Flexibility: Touch toes Strength: +10% shoulders and chest Stamina: Backpack trip without significant soreness afterwards UPDATE: Well I'm making progress, but only in fits and starts. I'm thinking I need to make a schedule now that I know how my class/work schedule looks. UPDATE: It's going well, but I still fall short some weeks. I still can't touch my toes, but it's getting easier to bend down...

To learn how to perform more basic maintenance tasks. UPDATE: I replaced my battery! UPDATE: I'm still where I was when I started, but I've been reading up n my vehicle at a online forum so I'm learning a lot about some of the issues unique to my vehicle.

To expand upon my canning experience and decrease my percentage of failed seals to below 50%.

To be able to identify at least 10 native plant species in 10 different families.

To renew my CPR certification and review my first aid knowledge.

To conduct a thorough review of my existing and future self defense needs. PROGRESS: I'm still thinking about this one. I think the best course of action will be to put all my ideas on paper at some point. The hard part will be to avoid the temptation to try to solve each need with a purchase. PROGRESS: I've been making a conscious effort to be more aware of my surroundings. I've also been trying to make sure I'm equipped whenever I walk out the door (i.e. charged phone, less than lethal tool, CCW, etc.).

To become familiar with 5 herbal remedies that can be grown in my area. Also, to study the application of these remedies and develop experience in their use.

To improve my efficiency at processing (wood) fuel and practice fire craft in unfamiliar settings (desert, snow) and for unfamiliar purposes (cooking on Sierra stove).