It’s a time for family, friends, and loved ones to get together and celebrate. It’s also a time of reflection and goal setting, as we move forward into the year 2010. I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday.

During my first week of winter break, I did a lot of traveling. On the day following the official close date of the fall semester, I flew back to Philadelphia, where I was home for a mere day. Then I flew to Tucson, Arizona via a stop in Atlanta, which proved to be somewhat pointless, as it only added to the total trip time. In Tucson, I spent time with family, including my new niece.

After a few days in Arizona, I flew back to Philadelphia. In the past few months, I’ve flown on a total of 14 flights; more than I’ve ever flown in an entire year. Although my passion for the airline industry is endless, traveling is a hassle. Yet, after a full night’s rest (12 hours), I’m good to go.

After settling back at home, I’ve begun to work more vigorously on winter-break goals. I promised myself I’d study for the FAA private pilot’s written exam, and I’ve done so; though, not as much as I’d like.

Writing wise, I have picked up the pace. I have spent more time keeping up with the latest in aviation news, and I have added more blog posts to my blog at aviation-buzz.com, and my blog (entitled “JetCheck”) hosted by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer (PI).

With New Year’s around the corner, it’s time for goal setting and reflection. It’s difficult to stick to a new year’s resolution, but unexpected events throughout the year come-up, and we adapt. Yet I encourage you to set a few short-term and long-term goals for the future; sticking to your goal can take you extraordinary places.

Wishing you a happy new year,

Jonathan