2016 is off to an incredible start, and I feel so appreciative for out team and our patients, and for all that we've done already.
Your dedication to taking care of yourself, your family, and still finding time to commit to your community and your work is an inspiration. Although it seems only natural and right, striking this balance is actually quite an accomplishment, and it’s something I have decided to really focus on as a personal goal for myself this year.
I know how difficult it can be to make time for leisure and relaxation. I also know how important it can be for your health and sanity to make time for yourself when you can — which is why last month I decided I needed a break, and took my friend up on his offer to go fly fishing with him on the Owyhee River.
It was only my second time fly fishing, but there must have been something in the bait, because the fish were biting like crazy! Charged with the adrenaline of reeling in a huge brown trout (see the photographic evidence of its size), I started wondering why I hadn’t taken up this hobby sooner.
For anyone considering learning to fly fish, I highly recommend a day trip. We had a fantastic time! And sorry, fishermen and fisherwomen, my friend’s great riverside spot is top secret and cannot be revealed.
I hope everyone had a nice Christmas and New Year. My family was happy to spend some quality time together over the break. We spent Christmas and New Year’s down in Utah with my family.
It was so nice having everyone together! Even my parents, who are currently living in Ohio finishing their two-year mission, came back to join us. Between the dinners and activities — I wasn’t aware how competitive my family was until one crazy NERF gun battle! — we had a particularly memorable time together.
…I guess the overarching goal I’ve set for myself can be described as simply “stepping it up.” I want to improve in all areas of my life — at home with my family, at work, and personally as well. Toward the end of the year, my exercise regimen sort of fell off a bit, and I’m really trying to ramp that back up again and get back into running. There are a few races I have my sights on, including the Owyhee Off-Road Challenge Half Marathon in March.
I always want to have more fun family time. I hope we can continue to do weekend trips, including the McCall winter festival. All in all, I hope to make 2016 a very intentional and focused year.
Instead of just going through the motions, I want to do everything in my power to make this year an improvement. That includes taking care of my family, my patients, and the community to the very best of my ability. And of course, catching a fish or two.
- Dr. Brown