Honestly, this has not been a great week. The bits I can share include a hurricane warning on my birthday, being stuck inside all weekend long with our kittens, unable to go anywhere to celebrate, and our house flooding on Monday. I'll stop there and leave the rest to your imagination.
As you may have guessed, I did not finish any of my 40 before 40 or 400 before 40 or 4 before 40 lists or anything similar. I now have one more thing that I think I did poorly though, so I could easily make a list of 40 failures before 40, and perhaps to cap off this week of turning 41, I could even list 40 failures since 40. It's been a sickening unsatisfying messy cycle of getting wind in my sails and then having my sails fall apart over and over and over again.
Life is good, though. I could be incredibly or uncomfortably unhealthy, rather than just inconveniently and embarrassingly so. I could be destitute and without the safety of a roof over my head, or I could be living life with no amazing wonderful cats which would also be terrible.
Overall things aren't terrible but I just expected more, you know? I just expected more, that's all.
Thanks for listening.
Showing posts with label birthday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label birthday. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Wednesday, August 09, 2017
Update 4: 400 B4 40
Whew! So it's been a while. Lots happened, including my awesome trip to SF, which I will write about later. In the meantime, though, here's an update on what I've been doing.
I have created a list of 21 experiences so far!
I have been steadily accumulating stuff and feel certain I will be able to accumulate more.
Honestly I'm reconsidering writing these. I'll think about it more and if I change my mind I will explain why.
1 - 14 - I started doing Richard Hittleman's Yoga: 28 Day Exercise Plan. I'm on day 14, so I'm counting it as 14. :-)
15 - another sweet half hour in the massage chair while Collin got another haircut
16 - visited some of my wonderful friends in SF
17 - mani-pedi in SF!
18 - shiatsu massage with communal bathing at Kabuki Springs & Spa, which should really count as 50 self-care acts because it was so amazing and I'm so glad I didn't find it when we lived in SF or I would have spent all of my money there, which actually may not have been such a bad thing come to think of it :-)
19 - signed up for regular facials
20 - massage and facial at Massage Envy
21 - lots of foot soaking!
22 - facial steam
23 - haircut
24 - rainbow mani-pedi
25 - massage chair at Collin's haircut
26 - lying out in the sun on the porch reading Borne
I am currently working part-time as a companion and just finished my application to be a Lyft driver. I'm also in talks to finalize another part-time job opportunity, so I'm feeling slightly optimistic. I'm very thankful for the opportunity I've had to really focus on finding work that makes me happy, while also taking some time to get settled into our new life in Durham. I'm ready to be at work full-time, though. This gig economy is exhausting for real.
Five:
Six:
Forty Playlists:
I'm falling behind on these because they are really hard! I'm almost done with 1987-1990, which will bring me right into adolescence and grunge music, so that should be a breeze, right?!?!Year 0: 1977
Year 1: 1978
Year 2: 1979
Year 3: 1980
Year 4: 1981
Year 5: 1982
Year 6: 1983
Year 7: 1984
Year 8: 1985
Year 9: 1986
Forty-ish Films:
1 (100): Ben-Hur
2 (99): Toy Story
3 (98): Yankee Doodle Dandy
4 (97): The Last Picture Show
5 (96): Do the Right Thing
6 (95): The Last Picture Show
7 (94): Pulp Fiction
8 (93): The French Connection
9 (92): Goodfellas
Forty Defining Experiences:
I have created a list of 21 experiences so far!
Forty Chores:
1 - repair paint on carl
2 - get NC license plate
3 - get ivy from trees
4 - remove dead weeds from walkway [I feel like I've done this a million times and they keep coming back. I think that's the nature of weeds, which makes me wonder if I should take this off the list...]
5 - trim azalea
6 - file all paperwork
7 - update blog background
8 - replace filter on cat fountain
9 - do something about the doors
10 - plant something?
11 - get a new passport (need to wait until after July)
12 - go to the eye doctor
13 - go to the lady doctor
14 - go to the dentist
15 - go to the dermatologist?
16 - find a real doctor
17 - cancel Foreign Affairs subscription
18 - update address at SFFCU and get new debit card
19 - hang plants from ceiling
20 - hang intentions board
21 - edit video footage of Louis from 2015
22 - edit video footage of Collin from 2016
23 - edit video footage of Devon from 2017
24 - renew library books and return books that can't be renewed anymore
25 - fix slow draining shower!!!
26 - Write May Minimalism Challenge blog entry
27 - edit video footage of Greer's wedding from 2017
28 - finish year 1 (SF) photo book! :-)
29 - photobook for Greer!
30 - take donations away from the house!
31 - oil change for Carl
32 - curtains for the bathroom
33 - make shed lockable
Forty Unbroken Chains:
I have been steadily accumulating stuff and feel certain I will be able to accumulate more.
Forty Letters:
Honestly I'm reconsidering writing these. I'll think about it more and if I change my mind I will explain why.
Forty Acts of Self-Love:
1 - 14 - I started doing Richard Hittleman's Yoga: 28 Day Exercise Plan. I'm on day 14, so I'm counting it as 14. :-)
15 - another sweet half hour in the massage chair while Collin got another haircut
16 - visited some of my wonderful friends in SF
17 - mani-pedi in SF!
18 - shiatsu massage with communal bathing at Kabuki Springs & Spa, which should really count as 50 self-care acts because it was so amazing and I'm so glad I didn't find it when we lived in SF or I would have spent all of my money there, which actually may not have been such a bad thing come to think of it :-)
19 - signed up for regular facials
20 - massage and facial at Massage Envy
21 - lots of foot soaking!
22 - facial steam
23 - haircut
24 - rainbow mani-pedi
25 - massage chair at Collin's haircut
26 - lying out in the sun on the porch reading Borne
Forty Job Applications:
I am currently working part-time as a companion and just finished my application to be a Lyft driver. I'm also in talks to finalize another part-time job opportunity, so I'm feeling slightly optimistic. I'm very thankful for the opportunity I've had to really focus on finding work that makes me happy, while also taking some time to get settled into our new life in Durham. I'm ready to be at work full-time, though. This gig economy is exhausting for real.
Forty Photos:
1983? (age 6?): I love this photo of me with my dear grandma Helen reading The Value of Understanding: the Story of Margaret Mead, which may have been responsible for me deciding to be a sociologist, not to be dramatic about it or anything...
I gave a print of this to my mom one Mother's Day and this year I got a print for myself too. It's hanging beside my computer screen so I see it whenever I am in my office and often look at it when I take my "space-out breaks" (not sure what they are actually called but I'm sure you know what I mean). It's very special to me.
I gave a print of this to my mom one Mother's Day and this year I got a print for myself too. It's hanging beside my computer screen so I see it whenever I am in my office and often look at it when I take my "space-out breaks" (not sure what they are actually called but I'm sure you know what I mean). It's very special to me.
Forty Haiku:
Five:
my motto of late:
suck it up and suck it in!
(not sure it's helping)
Six:
seagulls gathering -
in the twilight they sort through
abandoned memories.
Monday, July 03, 2017
Playlist! YEAR 7: 1984
In 1984 I changed schools for the first time, because my school was repurposed into an administration building. I remember playing in the big magnolia tree next door with all the neighborhood kids, and going to sleepovers at their houses. I remember trick-or-treating, trying to avoid the lady who gave out pennies, and I remember mom portioning out our Halloween candy for months later. I remember going to summer camps at the Y. I remember listening to music and watching MTV at my dad's house when we'd go visit for the weekends, taking trips in mom's little camper and listening to her sing along with the radio, roller skating, getting awesome grades, and losing teeth like crazy.
In my first grade photo, which was taken in 1983, I was missing both front teeth. The day before my second grade photo I ran into the magnolia tree, so my mom let me wear my favorite dress even though it didn't have a collar and she french braided my hair around the crown of my head. I still had a big scab in the middle of my forehead, but everyone told me that I'd laugh about it later and they were all right.
I remember going to a slumber party once for my friend's birthday, which was right around Valentine's Day. They had hung pink heart streamers in the basement, where they sat us down around the TV to watch Poltergeist (which was actually rated PG since they hadn't invented PG-13 yet). This was the first scary movie I saw and at one of the most terrifying moments, one of the streamers came down on us. We screamed and ran up and all piled on her dad's lap.
In 1984, Hollywood gave us Ghostbusters, Gremlins, the Terminator, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Nightmare on Elm Street, The Karate Kid, Sixteen Candles, Purple Rain, Revenge of the Nerds, Footloose, Police Academy (the start of an empire), Splash, and The Muppets Take Manhattan. It also gave us Blood Simple, Dune, This is Spinal Tap, and Repo Man, which I didn't appreciate until later. I still haven't seen Children of the Corn and Firestarter. I remember watching Purple Rain at a sleepover at the Y. Really not sure how that happened, since the movie is rated R, but it's better not to question 1984 in its Infinite Wisdom.
I thought making the 1983 playlist was hard and it was but a few kind-of-big-deal albums came out in 1984, too, like, oh I don't know Born in the U.S.A. (Bruce Springsteen), Like a Virgin (Madonna), She's So Unusual (Cyndi Lauper), and the Purple Rain soundtrack so yeah, back up to 6 hours again to start.
After much nail-biting, I got it down to right around 2 hours and I'm going to leave it. I moved a couple of the songs to 1983 so now that one is up to 1.7 hours, too. I'm going to have to start tightening up because once I get to the early 90s things are going to get crazy at this rate.
Link / Year 7: 1984*
Oh Sherrie - Steve Perry
Missing You - John Waite
Like a Virgin - Madonna
Pride (In the Name of Love) - U2
In a Big Country - Big Country
Out of Touch - Hall & Oates
Run to You - Bryan Adams
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Ghostbusters - Ray Parker, Jr.
Girls Just Want to Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
Let's Go Crazy - Prince
Jam On It - Newcleus
No Parking (On the Dance Floor) - Midnight Star
Let the Music Play - Shannon
I Didn't Mean to Turn You On - Cherrelle
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go - Wham!
You Might Think - The Cars
Owner of a Lonely Heart - Yes
2000 Miles - Pretenders
Against All Odds - Phil Collins
Wrapped Around Your Finger - The Police
How Soon Is Now? - The Smiths
I Can Dream About You - Dan Hartman
What's Love Got to Do With It - Tina Turner
Glory Days - Bruce Springsteen
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
In my first grade photo, which was taken in 1983, I was missing both front teeth. The day before my second grade photo I ran into the magnolia tree, so my mom let me wear my favorite dress even though it didn't have a collar and she french braided my hair around the crown of my head. I still had a big scab in the middle of my forehead, but everyone told me that I'd laugh about it later and they were all right.
I remember going to a slumber party once for my friend's birthday, which was right around Valentine's Day. They had hung pink heart streamers in the basement, where they sat us down around the TV to watch Poltergeist (which was actually rated PG since they hadn't invented PG-13 yet). This was the first scary movie I saw and at one of the most terrifying moments, one of the streamers came down on us. We screamed and ran up and all piled on her dad's lap.
In 1984, Hollywood gave us Ghostbusters, Gremlins, the Terminator, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Nightmare on Elm Street, The Karate Kid, Sixteen Candles, Purple Rain, Revenge of the Nerds, Footloose, Police Academy (the start of an empire), Splash, and The Muppets Take Manhattan. It also gave us Blood Simple, Dune, This is Spinal Tap, and Repo Man, which I didn't appreciate until later. I still haven't seen Children of the Corn and Firestarter. I remember watching Purple Rain at a sleepover at the Y. Really not sure how that happened, since the movie is rated R, but it's better not to question 1984 in its Infinite Wisdom.
I thought making the 1983 playlist was hard and it was but a few kind-of-big-deal albums came out in 1984, too, like, oh I don't know Born in the U.S.A. (Bruce Springsteen), Like a Virgin (Madonna), She's So Unusual (Cyndi Lauper), and the Purple Rain soundtrack so yeah, back up to 6 hours again to start.
After much nail-biting, I got it down to right around 2 hours and I'm going to leave it. I moved a couple of the songs to 1983 so now that one is up to 1.7 hours, too. I'm going to have to start tightening up because once I get to the early 90s things are going to get crazy at this rate.
Link / Year 7: 1984*
Track Listing:
Oh Sherrie - Steve Perry
Missing You - John Waite
Like a Virgin - Madonna
Pride (In the Name of Love) - U2
In a Big Country - Big Country
Out of Touch - Hall & Oates
Run to You - Bryan Adams
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Ghostbusters - Ray Parker, Jr.
Girls Just Want to Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
Let's Go Crazy - Prince
Jam On It - Newcleus
No Parking (On the Dance Floor) - Midnight Star
Let the Music Play - Shannon
I Didn't Mean to Turn You On - Cherrelle
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go - Wham!
You Might Think - The Cars
Owner of a Lonely Heart - Yes
2000 Miles - Pretenders
Against All Odds - Phil Collins
Wrapped Around Your Finger - The Police
How Soon Is Now? - The Smiths
I Can Dream About You - Dan Hartman
What's Love Got to Do With It - Tina Turner
Glory Days - Bruce Springsteen
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Playlist! YEAR 6: 1983
When I started editing 1983, I already had gathered 5+ hours of music. Somehow I managed to cut it down to less than 2 hours but I don't know how. I must have cut important songs but at this point I'll never know.
It's really getting fun/challenging because I have memories of hearing these songs on the radio now. Collin and I listened to this playlist (with the bonus tracks) last night, trying to figure out what to cut while considering where to go for our-my-birthday trip. Two years after his 40th he's getting excited about celebrating :-)
In addition to my early memories of these songs making it difficult to cut songs, there were also several really ground-breaking/awesome albums released this year: Borderline (Madonna), Let's Dance (David Bowie), Speaking in Tongues (Talking Heads), Synchronicity (The Police), Thriller (Michael Jackson)... At least my informal rule of only having one song per artist allowed (forced) me to cut quite a few songs!
Link / Year 6: 1983*
This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) - Talking Heads
Every Breath You Take - The Police
Eyes Without a Face - Billy Idol
China Girl - David Bowie
Lucky Star - Madonna
Only You - Yaz
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Rockit - Herbie Hancock
Freak-A-Zoid (Radio Edit) - Midnight Star
Rio (US Edit) - Duran Duran
Der Kommissar - After the Fire
Africa - Toto
One on One - Hall & Oates
Faithfully - Journey
Flashdance... What a Feeling (Radio Edit) - Irene Cara
Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler
Jeopardy - Greg Kihn Band
The Safety Dance - Men Without Hats
Stray Cat Strut - Stray Cats
Come Dancing - The Kinks
A New England - Billy Bragg
Cherry Oh Baby - UB40
Break My Stride - Matthew Wilder
All Night Long (All Night) - Lionel Richie
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
It's really getting fun/challenging because I have memories of hearing these songs on the radio now. Collin and I listened to this playlist (with the bonus tracks) last night, trying to figure out what to cut while considering where to go for our-my-birthday trip. Two years after his 40th he's getting excited about celebrating :-)
In addition to my early memories of these songs making it difficult to cut songs, there were also several really ground-breaking/awesome albums released this year: Borderline (Madonna), Let's Dance (David Bowie), Speaking in Tongues (Talking Heads), Synchronicity (The Police), Thriller (Michael Jackson)... At least my informal rule of only having one song per artist allowed (forced) me to cut quite a few songs!
Link / Year 6: 1983*
Track Listing:
This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) - Talking Heads
Every Breath You Take - The Police
Eyes Without a Face - Billy Idol
China Girl - David Bowie
Lucky Star - Madonna
Only You - Yaz
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Rockit - Herbie Hancock
Freak-A-Zoid (Radio Edit) - Midnight Star
Rio (US Edit) - Duran Duran
Der Kommissar - After the Fire
Africa - Toto
One on One - Hall & Oates
Faithfully - Journey
Flashdance... What a Feeling (Radio Edit) - Irene Cara
Total Eclipse of the Heart - Bonnie Tyler
Jeopardy - Greg Kihn Band
The Safety Dance - Men Without Hats
Stray Cat Strut - Stray Cats
Come Dancing - The Kinks
A New England - Billy Bragg
Cherry Oh Baby - UB40
Break My Stride - Matthew Wilder
All Night Long (All Night) - Lionel Richie
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Saturday, July 01, 2017
Playlist! YEAR 5: 1982
1982 was tough but 1983 is going to be the real challenge, with 5+ hours of music already.
1982 was the year I started school! Lots of fun times and reading about Sam the Snake.
UPDATE: I edited the playlist a little. I forgot I had already posted it... Don't worry I'm actually working on 1983 now!!
Link / Year 5: 1982*
Don't Stop... Planet Rock (Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force
Mickey - Toni Basil
We Got the Beat - Go-Go's
I Want Candy - Bow Wow Wow
I Know What Boys Like - The Waitresses
Gone Daddy Gone - Violent Femmes
Since You're Gone - The Cars
Save It For Later - The English Beat
I Melt With You - Modern English
Our House - Madness
Who Can It Be Now? - Men At Work
Hold Me - Fleetwood Mac
Eye in the Sky - The Alan Parsons Project
Southern Cross - Crosby, Stills, and Nash
Waiting for a Girl Like You - Foreigner
Maneater - Hall and Oates
Abracadabra - Steve Miller Band
The Girl is Mine (ft. Paul McCartney) - Michael Jackson
Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
1999 - Prince
The Message (ft. Melle Mel & Duke Bootee) - Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
1982 was the year I started school! Lots of fun times and reading about Sam the Snake.
UPDATE: I edited the playlist a little. I forgot I had already posted it... Don't worry I'm actually working on 1983 now!!
Link / Year 5: 1982*
Track Listing:
Don't Stop... Planet Rock (Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force
Mickey - Toni Basil
We Got the Beat - Go-Go's
I Want Candy - Bow Wow Wow
I Know What Boys Like - The Waitresses
Gone Daddy Gone - Violent Femmes
Since You're Gone - The Cars
Save It For Later - The English Beat
I Melt With You - Modern English
Our House - Madness
Who Can It Be Now? - Men At Work
Hold Me - Fleetwood Mac
Eye in the Sky - The Alan Parsons Project
Southern Cross - Crosby, Stills, and Nash
Waiting for a Girl Like You - Foreigner
Maneater - Hall and Oates
Abracadabra - Steve Miller Band
The Girl is Mine (ft. Paul McCartney) - Michael Jackson
Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
1999 - Prince
The Message (ft. Melle Mel & Duke Bootee) - Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Playlist! YEAR 3: 1980
The hardest thing about these mixes has been getting songs of totally different genres together in a way that makes aural sense. It's getting harder because it seems like the number of genres is increasing as time passes. I've had to start cutting songs I really love because they just don't fit. (LIFE IS HARD.) I will almost certainly revisit this track listing but it's time to move on now.
Broadly speaking, 1980 was a time of moving away from disco and towards New Wave. And while I'm sad to be losing disco, I'm pretty glad that I won't have to try to fit disco music into these mixes anymore...
Link / Year 3: 1980*
Rock With You - Michael Jackson
Upside Down - Diana Ross
The Breaks - Kurtis Blow
Rapture - Blondie
Another One Bites the Dust - Queen
Ghost Town - The Specials
Once in a Lifetime - Talking Heads
Mirror in the Bathroom - The English Beat
Let My Love Open the Door - Pete Townshend
Keep on Loving You - REO Speedwagon
Biggest Part of Me - Ambrosia
Shining Star - The Manhattans
Hey Nineteen - Steely Dan
Whip It - Devo
Love Will Tear Us Apart - Joy Division
Refugee - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Against the Wind - Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band
Heartbreaker - Pat Benatar
Tusk - Fleetwood Mac
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Broadly speaking, 1980 was a time of moving away from disco and towards New Wave. And while I'm sad to be losing disco, I'm pretty glad that I won't have to try to fit disco music into these mixes anymore...
Link / Year 3: 1980*
Track Listing:
Rock With You - Michael Jackson
Upside Down - Diana Ross
The Breaks - Kurtis Blow
Rapture - Blondie
Another One Bites the Dust - Queen
Ghost Town - The Specials
Once in a Lifetime - Talking Heads
Mirror in the Bathroom - The English Beat
Let My Love Open the Door - Pete Townshend
Keep on Loving You - REO Speedwagon
Biggest Part of Me - Ambrosia
Shining Star - The Manhattans
Hey Nineteen - Steely Dan
Whip It - Devo
Love Will Tear Us Apart - Joy Division
Refugee - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Against the Wind - Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band
Heartbreaker - Pat Benatar
Tusk - Fleetwood Mac
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Saturday, June 17, 2017
Playlist! YEAR 2: 1979
1979 was also harder than I expected. I fear this is only going to get more difficult. Kind of like life I guess. But I'm happy about this list, not only because it represents the year Baxter entered the scene, and not only because it is the last year before the 80s, and not only because of the awesome progression for tracks 11-13, but because of all of those things.
And because my intention was to finish the 70s today and yes it's 11:30 pm but I've finished the shit out of the 70s, thank you very much.
Link / Year 2: 1979*
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson
Good Times - Chic
We Are Family - Sister Sledge (WELCOME TO THE WORLD BAXTER)
Don't Bring Me Down - ELO
Fool in the Rain - Led Zeppelin
Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
Dance the Night Away - Van Halen
Cars - Gary Numan
Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' - Journey
Making Plans for Nigel - XTC
Message in a Bottle - The Police
A Message to You Rudy - The Specials
Rudie Can't Fail - The Clash
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) - Rupert Holmes
What a Fool Believes - The Doobie Brothers
Goodbye Stranger - Supertramp
Lady - Little River Band
Nobody Home - Pink Floyd
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
Heart of Glass - Blondie
Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles
Rapper's Delight - The Sugarhill Gang
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
And because my intention was to finish the 70s today and yes it's 11:30 pm but I've finished the shit out of the 70s, thank you very much.
Link / Year 2: 1979*
Track Listing:
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson
Good Times - Chic
We Are Family - Sister Sledge (WELCOME TO THE WORLD BAXTER)
Don't Bring Me Down - ELO
Fool in the Rain - Led Zeppelin
Crazy Little Thing Called Love - Queen
Dance the Night Away - Van Halen
Cars - Gary Numan
Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin' - Journey
Making Plans for Nigel - XTC
Message in a Bottle - The Police
A Message to You Rudy - The Specials
Rudie Can't Fail - The Clash
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) - Rupert Holmes
What a Fool Believes - The Doobie Brothers
Goodbye Stranger - Supertramp
Lady - Little River Band
Nobody Home - Pink Floyd
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
Heart of Glass - Blondie
Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles
Rapper's Delight - The Sugarhill Gang
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Update 2: 400 B4 40
Forty Playlists:
I finished two and am trying to finalize three more, which will take me up to kindergarten (!!). I also re-numbered from 0 - 40, which is technically 41. My goal is to finish the seventies today!
Year 0: 1977
Year 1: 1978
Forty-ish Films:
Not making that much progress but at least I finally finished writing about all of them (see below)! Currently on deck: Do the Right Thing (1989) and The Last Picture Show (1971).
1 (100): Ben-Hur
2 (99): Toy Story
3 (98): Yankee Doodle Dandy
Forty Defining Experiences:
I have started listing experiences but want to get a longer list before I start editing.
Forty Chores:
I have a list of 26 chores; I've done eight of them and started many of them!
1 - repair paint on carl
2 - get NC license plate
3 - get ivy from trees
4 - remove dead weeds from walkway
5 - trim azalea
6 - file all paperwork
7 - update blog background
8 - replace filter on cat fountain
9 - do something about the doors
10 - plant something?
11 - get a new passport (need to wait until after July)
12 - go to the eye doctor
13 - go to the lady doctor
14 - go to the dentist
15 - go to the dermatologist?
16 - find a real doctor
17 - cancel Foreign Affairs subscription
18 - update address at SFFCU and get new debit card
19 - hang plants from ceiling [need to get 5/16" drill bit first - ordered and waiting!]
20 - hang intentions board
21 - edit video footage of Louis from 2015
22 - edit video footage of Collin from 2016
23 - edit video footage of Devon from 2017
24 - renew library books and return books that can't be renewed anymore
25 - fix slow draining shower!!!
26 - Write May Minimalism Challenge blog entry
Forty Unbroken Chains:
I've started gathering things!
Forty Letters:
I received my cards and am ready to write my letters!
Forty Acts of Self-Love:
I got my hairs cut and it's fantastic! I also finished my rainbow pedicure. This required me to purchase yellow nail polish by the way, which I imagine I'll only ever use once a year. :-)
Let's see, so that adds up to 4 things. As I said, this category might not get up to 40 but I'm realizing that lots of "chores" on my list are actually self-care chores, like hanging plants in my office. But I have had a hard time prioritizing things like Pilates and meditation, which sound like easy things to do...
Forty Job Applications:
I submitted two job applications and have been talking to someone about the possibility of a different position! Very exciting.
Forty Photos:
This is my headshot for improv shows, taken in 2009 (I think). We had to get one made so that when we were cast in shows, the photos could be hung out front to identify who was going to be in the show that night. I didn't use it very often, since I stopped doing improv in 2010 (I STILL MISS IT SO HARD), but it still means a lot to me because of the reason it was used and because my sweet boyfriend Sanks took it and I was laughing about something hilarious that he said.
Forty Haiku:
Three and Four:
our new home greets us
we embrace, smile, and relax -
adulting win! then...
appliances groan
drains and ducts reveal horrors
bugs and banks snicker
Playlist! YEAR 1: 1978
1978 was way harder than I expected. I finally just gave up, honestly. I might revise this one later.
Link / Year 1: 1978*
Flashlight - Parliament
Le Freak - Chic
Boogie Oogie Oogie - A Taste of Honey
Mary Jane - Rick James
Take Me to the River - Talking Heads
Who Are You - The Who
Just What I Needed - The Cars
Sultans of Swing - Dire Straits
Hold the Line - Toto
(I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea - Elvis Costello and the Attractions
Lay Down Sally - Eric Clapton
Fire on the Mountain - Grateful Dead
Werewolves of London - Warren Zevon
Is She Really Going Out with Him? - Joe Jackson
You're the One that I Want - John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
One Way or Another - Blondie
Roxanne - The Police
Stayin' Alive - The Bee Gees
Mr. Blue Sky - Electric Light Orchestra
Can't Smile Without You - Barry Manilow
September - Earth, Wind, and Fire
Y.M.C.A. - Village People
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Link / Year 1: 1978*
Track Listing:
Flashlight - Parliament
Le Freak - Chic
Boogie Oogie Oogie - A Taste of Honey
Mary Jane - Rick James
Take Me to the River - Talking Heads
Who Are You - The Who
Just What I Needed - The Cars
Sultans of Swing - Dire Straits
Hold the Line - Toto
(I Don't Want to Go to) Chelsea - Elvis Costello and the Attractions
Lay Down Sally - Eric Clapton
Fire on the Mountain - Grateful Dead
Werewolves of London - Warren Zevon
Is She Really Going Out with Him? - Joe Jackson
You're the One that I Want - John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
One Way or Another - Blondie
Roxanne - The Police
Stayin' Alive - The Bee Gees
Mr. Blue Sky - Electric Light Orchestra
Can't Smile Without You - Barry Manilow
September - Earth, Wind, and Fire
Y.M.C.A. - Village People
*By the way, you may have to have a subscription to Apple Music to listen to this. You will almost certainly need iTunes and an Apple ID. If you'd rather I make you an actual mixtape, just remember that it's 2017 not 1977.
thanks xoxo
Sunday, June 11, 2017
Update 1: 400 B4 40
Forty Playlists:
One down, one almost down, one kind-of down, 37 to go!
Forty-ish Films:
Three down, 97 to go and having a great time! I've watched Ben-Hur, Toy Story, and Yankee Doodle Dandy.
Forty Defining Experiences:
I haven't started this but I've been thinking about it.
Forty Chores:
I have a list of 17 chores and I've done three of them. I'm actually not sure I'll be able to get forty but I'll keep at it - they do seem to just keep coming at me:
repair paint on carl
get ivy from trees
remove dead weeds from walkway
trim azalea
file all paperwork
update blog background
replace filter on cat fountain
do something about the doors
plant something?
get a new passport
go to the eye doctor
go to the lady doctor
go to the dentist
go to the dermatologist?
find a real doctor
cancel Foreign Affairs subscription
update address at SFFCU and get new debit card
Forty Unbroken Chains:
Looking forward to this! It's getting to the point where I'll need to add "Write about May Minimalism Challenge on my blog" to the list of chores.
Forty Letters:
I have thought about this and went to buy some stationery but then got distracted because Emily McDowell was having a sale and then got distracted by the fact that my debit card had expired and this reminds me that I still haven't gotten the stationery. Actually - I went back and got it so thanks for the reminder. I am resisting the urge to add buy stationery to the list in order to cross it out. I was unable to resist adding the debit card chore because that actually took several phone calls and about half an hour, for some reason.
Forty Acts of Self-Love:
Yesterday I went out in a bathing suit of sorts and laid out in the sunshine and shade listening to the birds and reading my book. This was great and Guiness liked it too, since she's always trying to get us to come outside. I also started a pedicure but didn't finish so I'll try to finish today. Oh, and yesterday I took Collin to his hair appointment and they have massage chairs so I let myself drink a beer and enjoy a massage chair for about half an hour which was really nice and relaxing. I also have other plans so I'm happy about this category. At the very least, this commitment has served to remind me, at times when I can choose to do a self-care/self-love act or not to do one, that I should do it. And that's been nice.
Forty Job Applications:
I have found 14 jobs that I will apply for this week! Very excited. They are not all dream jobs and honestly a couple of them don't even look like good jobs so that number might shrink by the time I do the applications, but I'm happy about my start.
Forty Photos:
Well I found one. Fourth grade. Adorable! That was one of my favorite school photo outfits.
Forty Haiku:
One:
Two:approaching fortyso much has been accomplishedso much left to do
a lifetime of joy
is not realistic - i'll take
a lifetime of love
Wednesday, June 07, 2017
Here Goes! 400 B4 40
Ok so after much consideration and preparation (like, too much I know), I've made a decision about what I will do in preparation for or in honor of my upcoming milestone birthday. This is in addition to any road trips or tropical vacations I may or may not be able to make happen.
I think lists are good but I found that there were several categories of things I wanted to do, so I decided to use "40 by 40" as an inspiration or guideline rather than a format. If I end up doing all of the things listed below, it will actually be 400 things. So... NO PRESSURE.
Basically the first thing on my list is to decide for myself what is appropriate and then live that truth.
So technically 401 then. I need to leave before I add more things to this list!!!
I'm going to do a playlist for each year of my life. I'll make these Apple Music Playlists so I can share the link in my blog. I've already started the first playlist (YEAR 1: 1977) and I'll post the link ASAP! This is going to be really fun. I'm using songs that either came out or were hits in each year. Not sure how you are with math but you might notice that 2017 will actually be Year 41 so 1) I'm off the hook for that one but also 2) I'm technically on my firty-first year already. #gtfo
One thing that I've always wanted to do is watch all the films on the American Film Institute Top 100. I was in college when they first put the list together and I remember one of my professors lamenting the fact that they had included Birth of a Nation. But where was the outrage about Dances with Wolves!? Just kidding. They revised the list in 2007 and I note they removed both but they also made lots of changes to the list and I wanted to take some time and allow myself to explore that. So this seems like lots of fun. When I originally counted, there were around 40 that I thought I had not seen. I recounted and actually I've seen lots more than 60 but don't remember lots of them well. I'm saying 40 because I am going to try to watch all of them, and if I get through the first 40 by September then I will be pleased. Although I'm actually going for all 100. From the 2007 list. Then I'll revisit the 1998 one.
I'd like to make a list of 40 defining experiences that I've already had that have made me who I am today. This can be achievements or events or failures or milestones or moments of awakening - it's a pretty broad list because I don't want to stress about it too much. Otherwise I'll have to put creating this list on the list and that's just too meta.
I'm sure I can get a list of forty chores I need to do around the house. Well I'm not sure, but I think it's pretty likely.
I didn't get to finish my May Minimalism Challenge because of the rude interference of life (how dare you!) so I'll finish by getting rid of forty things I don't need! I really enjoyed the Minimalism Challenge. This might be something I want to do every birthday.
Although my arthritic hand aches just thinking about it, I would like to write 40 letters to people. I think that's a doable and enjoyable task. I'll write a letter to myself, too, which is something that is always included in those 40 before 40 lists.
This is another very broad category, including things like painting my nails into a rainbow, getting a nice haircut, meditating, doing yoga at home, etc. I'd like to do 40 days in a row of meditation and 40 days in a row of yoga at home, which might be pushing it. But I do have 97 days, which is way more than 40...
Apply for forty jobs! Can I do it?!? Yes! Will all of them be dream jobs? No, probably not.
I'd like to select forty photos from over the years - not necessarily one from each year because I lost my senior scrapbook in the move out west which was the worst part of my life so far. So I don't have photos from each year. But I'm pretty sure I can come up with forty photos which might make up for the loss a little. (Not really, but I'm trying here.)
I really like writing haiku so it would be fun if I could manage to write 40 in honor of my birthday. I'll think about that, though. Haiku is not fun (or good) if forced.
Here's my first:
I think lists are good but I found that there were several categories of things I wanted to do, so I decided to use "40 by 40" as an inspiration or guideline rather than a format. If I end up doing all of the things listed below, it will actually be 400 things. So... NO PRESSURE.
Basically the first thing on my list is to decide for myself what is appropriate and then live that truth.
So technically 401 then. I need to leave before I add more things to this list!!!
Forty Playlists:
I'm going to do a playlist for each year of my life. I'll make these Apple Music Playlists so I can share the link in my blog. I've already started the first playlist (YEAR 1: 1977) and I'll post the link ASAP! This is going to be really fun. I'm using songs that either came out or were hits in each year. Not sure how you are with math but you might notice that 2017 will actually be Year 41 so 1) I'm off the hook for that one but also 2) I'm technically on my firty-first year already. #gtfo
Forty-ish Films:
One thing that I've always wanted to do is watch all the films on the American Film Institute Top 100. I was in college when they first put the list together and I remember one of my professors lamenting the fact that they had included Birth of a Nation. But where was the outrage about Dances with Wolves!? Just kidding. They revised the list in 2007 and I note they removed both but they also made lots of changes to the list and I wanted to take some time and allow myself to explore that. So this seems like lots of fun. When I originally counted, there were around 40 that I thought I had not seen. I recounted and actually I've seen lots more than 60 but don't remember lots of them well. I'm saying 40 because I am going to try to watch all of them, and if I get through the first 40 by September then I will be pleased. Although I'm actually going for all 100. From the 2007 list. Then I'll revisit the 1998 one.
Forty Defining Experiences:
I'd like to make a list of 40 defining experiences that I've already had that have made me who I am today. This can be achievements or events or failures or milestones or moments of awakening - it's a pretty broad list because I don't want to stress about it too much. Otherwise I'll have to put creating this list on the list and that's just too meta.
Forty Chores:
I'm sure I can get a list of forty chores I need to do around the house. Well I'm not sure, but I think it's pretty likely.
Forty Unbroken Chains:
I didn't get to finish my May Minimalism Challenge because of the rude interference of life (how dare you!) so I'll finish by getting rid of forty things I don't need! I really enjoyed the Minimalism Challenge. This might be something I want to do every birthday.
Forty Letters:
Although my arthritic hand aches just thinking about it, I would like to write 40 letters to people. I think that's a doable and enjoyable task. I'll write a letter to myself, too, which is something that is always included in those 40 before 40 lists.
Forty Acts of Self-Love:
This is another very broad category, including things like painting my nails into a rainbow, getting a nice haircut, meditating, doing yoga at home, etc. I'd like to do 40 days in a row of meditation and 40 days in a row of yoga at home, which might be pushing it. But I do have 97 days, which is way more than 40...
Forty Job Applications:
Apply for forty jobs! Can I do it?!? Yes! Will all of them be dream jobs? No, probably not.
Forty Photos:
I'd like to select forty photos from over the years - not necessarily one from each year because I lost my senior scrapbook in the move out west which was the worst part of my life so far. So I don't have photos from each year. But I'm pretty sure I can come up with forty photos which might make up for the loss a little. (Not really, but I'm trying here.)
Forty Haiku:
I really like writing haiku so it would be fun if I could manage to write 40 in honor of my birthday. I'll think about that, though. Haiku is not fun (or good) if forced.
Here's my first:
charity :-)
approaching fortyso much has been accomplishedso much left to do
Tuesday, June 06, 2017
40 Before 40 (study/quiz 9) (last one)
This list is originally from Babble.
This list is the best so far and you can see why from the title: "40 (Realistic) Things to do Before You Turn 40" - thank you Dresden Shumaker. She chose 40 unrealistic goals and realisticized them (hopefully create your own vocabulary is on there, too).
1. Travel to all seven continents becomes Put my feet in the ocean 
Wow, generic list. Way to up the ante from "travel abroad". On the other hand, I've put my feet in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. So, pretty good so far!
2. Pay off all my debt becomes Continue to pay down my credit card every month
Well hmm. We can't really pay off the house in the next 98 days but we have paid off my student loans (HOLY SHIT) and two cars, and we thus far have been able to pay off the credit card each month. The longer I go without a job the harder this last one gets, though.
3. See a gynecologist, dermatologist, and primary care doctor remains the same
These are good goals for me. I just went to an eye doctor last week and am going to the dentist next week, which I'm very ACK$%(*$)#*$ about because I'm pretty sure I'll need work done. I just hope I don't end up having to get my wisdom teeth out before I'm 40. :-(
4. Have teeth professionally whitened becomes Have a cleaning at the dentist
See above and I'm definitely not having them professionally whitened - they are way too sensitive. I'll just wait until I get dentures and get them scary white and dye my hair to match.
5. Completely change my look becomes Get a new haircut and maybe splurge for a fancy salon
Yes! Fancy hairz cut!
6. Swim with the sharks becomes Go to the aquarium
I have no interest in swimming with the sharks (!??!?) or the dolphins but I've been to the aquarium about a million times. I am always up for another trip but not sure this belongs on my list.
7. Try something new remains the same, and she mentions wanting to try floating
One word: ZIPLINING
8. Have a heart-pumping adventure like skydiving or walking on glass becomes Get a tattoo 
Same word: ZIPLINING
9. Hold a tarantula becomes Go to the zoo
I think I would hold a tarantula. It would scare the shit out of me but in a good way! And again, I've been to the zoo a billion times but am always up for a trip.
10. Get married becomes Go on a date
Collin and I don't go on that many dates, true, but still not sure this belongs on my list.
11. Join the Peace Corps becomes Volunteer locally
I wanted to join the Peace Corps when I was younger but turns out it's not enough to want to join. They actually want you to have useful skills. I know, weird. Luckily my business analyst skills are actually useful to nonprofits in this area so I've been doing that and loving it.
12. Make something creative with my hands remains the same
I think I would like to design and embroider something in honor of 40 but I'll have to figure out what...
13. Replace coffee with green tea becomes Drink tea in the afternoon
I don't know why all these lists want me to stop drinking coffee. But anyway, I don't drink it anymore except on special occasions and YOU CAN'T HAVE IT ALL OK LET ME HAVE MY OCCASIONAL LATTE FOR PETE'S SAKE
14. Run a marathon becomes Get myself a bike and gear (oh, and ride it)
No marathons. Maybe I should put "ride your bike" on my list though. That may be what it takes to get it out of the shed...
15. Go to a performance at the Met becomes See a band
Ok, a stretch item for my list will be to find and buy tickets to see an opera. Opera season is usually not until late September so it's unlikely I'd be able to see an opera before 40. On the other hand, that does give me a little flexibility so I don't just have to see the first thing playing.
16. See a show on Broadway becomes See The Lion King on tour when it comes to Philadelphia
I think buying tickets to see an opera would be enough. I've seen lots of musicals and other big production shows.
17. Get a Ph.D. is sidestepped, since she is currently going back to school
DONE
18. Invest in gold or the stock market becomes Properly set up my son's savings
I would imagine retirement investments count, so this is done, too.
19. Go on a romantic picnic or road-trip becomes Go on a solo drive — windows down, music playing
Done - although I'd like to go on another road trip with Collin before 40.
20. Drink an expensive bottle of alcohol becomes Drink a glass of really nice wine
Done.
21. Become a CEO remains the same
Well that sounds like more of a stretch assignment than I'm prepared for, but I would like to have started moving forward with my non-profit by 40.
22. Eat rare food becomes Make more exotic food
"Rare food" is kind of a vague weird term and so is "exotic food" but I would like to go out for a nice dinner before 40. Or, you know, a few nice dinners. :-)
23. Be part of a flashmob or group event becomes Eagerly sing Happy Birthday whenever I hear it begin
I'm going to let doing all that improv count as my middle ground between the two of these.
24. Go geocaching remains the same
I never really thought about this but it sounds pretty fun actually.
25. Have a nude portrait taken becomes Have a non-selfie, professional portrait taken
Well since I meant to have a professional portrait taken for my 30th birthday and never did, maybe I should do this for 40.
26. Create a font remains the same
Haha - no thank you but thank you for all the nice fonts everyone!
27. Read 100 books becomes Read 50 books
Ever since graduate school I try to be lenient with myself about reading. It really became unfun so now I try to only read when I want to and it helps.
28. Spend all day at a spa becomes Get a massage
Hmm, let's say half-day?!?
29. Have a professional makeup lesson becomes Learn how to master smokey eyes from YouTube tutorials
No thanks! How about have a mani-pedi?
30. Go to Vegas and play the slots becomes Buy a scratcher lottery ticket at the grocery store
Done both - won very little but had fun.
31. Buy luxury bedding becomes Buy a new duvet cover
I just recently bought a new quilt and sheets, so hooray! They're not "luxury" but it's kind of a luxury to be able to afford new sheets and a quilt so I'm counting it.
32. Hire a housekeeper becomes Have a service come the week of my birthday to clean the house
Ooh, that's a good idea. Maybe I can hire them to come when I'm at the spa. Now THAT'S luxury.
33. Bake and eat only your own bread becomes Learn how to make bread
... becomes one time I made bread in a sourdough class and that was fun.
34. Cook every dish from your favorite cookbook becomes Cook my grandmother’s recipes
Every dish?! Are you kidding? Last week I organized all my recipes into a couple of 3-ring-binders and I'm counting that. Well done, Charity!
35. Hunt for truffles becomes Buy some truffle oil and figure out what to do with it
... becomes throw away that truffle oil I bought 5 years ago because I'm clearly not going to use it.
36. Apply to be on a reality TV show is something she actually already did!
But it's something I'll never do! By choice! But thanks for the idea!
37. Go to a drive-in movie becomes Set up a backyard movie theater
Seems to be that going to a drive-in movie is easier than setting up a backyard movie theater. Although, do they still have drive-in movies? I just looked. Not very many. Luckily I went to a drive-in movie when I was a kid. That would be another fun thing to do sometime.
38. Attend a major gallery opening becomes Go to an art museum
I've attended lots of special exhibits, like the Tim Burton exhibit at MoMA, where we had to buy a membership to get in since they were sold out. So I'll count that.
39. Name a star becomes Stargaze or go to a planetarium
Oh I'd like to go to the Planetarium again! Although I've been a couple of times in the last few years at California Academy of Sciences, so not sure it needs to be included on the list.
40. Take part in an archaeological dig becomes Introduce my son to Indiana Jones movies
Luckily Raiders of the Lost Ark is in the AFI Top 100 so I plan on seeing it before 40 anyway.
****
Ok! I'm ready to make this list. Thanks for your input everyone. :-)
This list is the best so far and you can see why from the title: "40 (Realistic) Things to do Before You Turn 40" - thank you Dresden Shumaker. She chose 40 unrealistic goals and realisticized them (hopefully create your own vocabulary is on there, too).
1. Travel to all seven continents becomes Put my feet in the ocean 
Wow, generic list. Way to up the ante from "travel abroad". On the other hand, I've put my feet in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas. So, pretty good so far!
2. Pay off all my debt becomes Continue to pay down my credit card every month
Well hmm. We can't really pay off the house in the next 98 days but we have paid off my student loans (HOLY SHIT) and two cars, and we thus far have been able to pay off the credit card each month. The longer I go without a job the harder this last one gets, though.
3. See a gynecologist, dermatologist, and primary care doctor remains the same
These are good goals for me. I just went to an eye doctor last week and am going to the dentist next week, which I'm very ACK$%(*$)#*$ about because I'm pretty sure I'll need work done. I just hope I don't end up having to get my wisdom teeth out before I'm 40. :-(
4. Have teeth professionally whitened becomes Have a cleaning at the dentist
See above and I'm definitely not having them professionally whitened - they are way too sensitive. I'll just wait until I get dentures and get them scary white and dye my hair to match.
5. Completely change my look becomes Get a new haircut and maybe splurge for a fancy salon
Yes! Fancy hairz cut!
6. Swim with the sharks becomes Go to the aquarium
I have no interest in swimming with the sharks (!??!?) or the dolphins but I've been to the aquarium about a million times. I am always up for another trip but not sure this belongs on my list.
7. Try something new remains the same, and she mentions wanting to try floating
One word: ZIPLINING
8. Have a heart-pumping adventure like skydiving or walking on glass becomes Get a tattoo 
Same word: ZIPLINING
9. Hold a tarantula becomes Go to the zoo
I think I would hold a tarantula. It would scare the shit out of me but in a good way! And again, I've been to the zoo a billion times but am always up for a trip.
10. Get married becomes Go on a date
Collin and I don't go on that many dates, true, but still not sure this belongs on my list.
11. Join the Peace Corps becomes Volunteer locally
I wanted to join the Peace Corps when I was younger but turns out it's not enough to want to join. They actually want you to have useful skills. I know, weird. Luckily my business analyst skills are actually useful to nonprofits in this area so I've been doing that and loving it.
12. Make something creative with my hands remains the same
I think I would like to design and embroider something in honor of 40 but I'll have to figure out what...
13. Replace coffee with green tea becomes Drink tea in the afternoon
I don't know why all these lists want me to stop drinking coffee. But anyway, I don't drink it anymore except on special occasions and YOU CAN'T HAVE IT ALL OK LET ME HAVE MY OCCASIONAL LATTE FOR PETE'S SAKE
14. Run a marathon becomes Get myself a bike and gear (oh, and ride it)
No marathons. Maybe I should put "ride your bike" on my list though. That may be what it takes to get it out of the shed...
15. Go to a performance at the Met becomes See a band
Ok, a stretch item for my list will be to find and buy tickets to see an opera. Opera season is usually not until late September so it's unlikely I'd be able to see an opera before 40. On the other hand, that does give me a little flexibility so I don't just have to see the first thing playing.
16. See a show on Broadway becomes See The Lion King on tour when it comes to Philadelphia
I think buying tickets to see an opera would be enough. I've seen lots of musicals and other big production shows.
17. Get a Ph.D. is sidestepped, since she is currently going back to school
DONE
18. Invest in gold or the stock market becomes Properly set up my son's savings
I would imagine retirement investments count, so this is done, too.
19. Go on a romantic picnic or road-trip becomes Go on a solo drive — windows down, music playing
Done - although I'd like to go on another road trip with Collin before 40.
20. Drink an expensive bottle of alcohol becomes Drink a glass of really nice wine
Done.
21. Become a CEO remains the same
Well that sounds like more of a stretch assignment than I'm prepared for, but I would like to have started moving forward with my non-profit by 40.
22. Eat rare food becomes Make more exotic food
"Rare food" is kind of a vague weird term and so is "exotic food" but I would like to go out for a nice dinner before 40. Or, you know, a few nice dinners. :-)
23. Be part of a flashmob or group event becomes Eagerly sing Happy Birthday whenever I hear it begin
I'm going to let doing all that improv count as my middle ground between the two of these.
24. Go geocaching remains the same
I never really thought about this but it sounds pretty fun actually.
25. Have a nude portrait taken becomes Have a non-selfie, professional portrait taken
Well since I meant to have a professional portrait taken for my 30th birthday and never did, maybe I should do this for 40.
26. Create a font remains the same
Haha - no thank you but thank you for all the nice fonts everyone!
27. Read 100 books becomes Read 50 books
Ever since graduate school I try to be lenient with myself about reading. It really became unfun so now I try to only read when I want to and it helps.
28. Spend all day at a spa becomes Get a massage
Hmm, let's say half-day?!?
29. Have a professional makeup lesson becomes Learn how to master smokey eyes from YouTube tutorials
No thanks! How about have a mani-pedi?
30. Go to Vegas and play the slots becomes Buy a scratcher lottery ticket at the grocery store
Done both - won very little but had fun.
31. Buy luxury bedding becomes Buy a new duvet cover
I just recently bought a new quilt and sheets, so hooray! They're not "luxury" but it's kind of a luxury to be able to afford new sheets and a quilt so I'm counting it.
32. Hire a housekeeper becomes Have a service come the week of my birthday to clean the house
Ooh, that's a good idea. Maybe I can hire them to come when I'm at the spa. Now THAT'S luxury.
33. Bake and eat only your own bread becomes Learn how to make bread
... becomes one time I made bread in a sourdough class and that was fun.
34. Cook every dish from your favorite cookbook becomes Cook my grandmother’s recipes
Every dish?! Are you kidding? Last week I organized all my recipes into a couple of 3-ring-binders and I'm counting that. Well done, Charity!
35. Hunt for truffles becomes Buy some truffle oil and figure out what to do with it
... becomes throw away that truffle oil I bought 5 years ago because I'm clearly not going to use it.
36. Apply to be on a reality TV show is something she actually already did!
But it's something I'll never do! By choice! But thanks for the idea!
37. Go to a drive-in movie becomes Set up a backyard movie theater
Seems to be that going to a drive-in movie is easier than setting up a backyard movie theater. Although, do they still have drive-in movies? I just looked. Not very many. Luckily I went to a drive-in movie when I was a kid. That would be another fun thing to do sometime.
38. Attend a major gallery opening becomes Go to an art museum
I've attended lots of special exhibits, like the Tim Burton exhibit at MoMA, where we had to buy a membership to get in since they were sold out. So I'll count that.
39. Name a star becomes Stargaze or go to a planetarium
Oh I'd like to go to the Planetarium again! Although I've been a couple of times in the last few years at California Academy of Sciences, so not sure it needs to be included on the list.
40. Take part in an archaeological dig becomes Introduce my son to Indiana Jones movies
Luckily Raiders of the Lost Ark is in the AFI Top 100 so I plan on seeing it before 40 anyway.
****
Ok! I'm ready to make this list. Thanks for your input everyone. :-)
40 Before 40 (study/quiz 8)
This list is originally from YouQueen and it is probably my favorite. Why? Well obviously because of this sentence, in the introductory paragraph:
1. Go abroad.
This was interesting, mostly because of what it tells me about expectations young women have about turning 40. I remember those days...
While I have not yet surpassed the quarter-century milestone myself, growing further and further away from my carefree teenage years definitely has me thinking about my life’s “bucket list.”Oh goody. So this is a list of 40 things a 24-year-old thinks I should do in the next 98 days in order to feel like I'm on track to living a fulfilled life. Or in order to be considered a Queen, maybe? Or as she says:
The ever-increasing number of birthday candles on the annual sweet symbol of aging should be an inspiration to continue to live our lives to the fullest. Not all to-do lists have to be formidable! These 40 things to do before you’re 40 should serve as a source of inspiration as opposed to a source of stress!See? It has to be good. *I've removed most of the clarification blurbs.
1. Go abroad.
Done!2. Read a classical novel in its entirety. 
Done! (What were you reading in high school and college? Just curious. Not the classicals I guess.)3. Write a thank-you card.
Done. What kind of uncivilized people need to add this to a 40 before 40 list?! Oh right. Millennials.4. Cook a new recipe.
Done. Since I've cooked something from a cookbook at least once in my life....5. Write in a journal.
Done. I have written at least one journal entry in my life.6. Smile at a stranger. For no particular reason.
Done. Since I'm a woman raised in the South and that's what we are taught to do. It's kind of a thing.7. Go 24 hours without technology.
Since I was born in 1977 I have definitely spent at least one 24-hour period in these almost 40 years without technology. More recently I did Outward Bound and putting up my phone for a week was one of the hardest and easiest things I've ever done in my life.8. Laugh until you cry.
It's been a long time but I've definitely done this.9. Sing karaoke.
Done, bought the machine.10. Get your adrenaline pumping.
MUST TO DO ZIPLINING11. Attend a sporting event.
Done.12. Do something in front of a large group of people.
Done.13. Go camping.
Done. And I appreciate you not requiring me to go glamping. Although the idea is starting to grow on me as it keeps showing up on these lists...14. Go vegetarian. Try it for one week. Want to take it to the extreme? Go vegan.
Want to go REALLY extreme? Try it for ten years.15. Finish a race.
Just curious: are we counting races run in high school PE class? Because I learned then that races aren't really my thing.16. Do something alone.
Done. I went to a few concerts alone in graduate school and met really interesting people. I also used to go to the movies alone quite a lot. Wait, did you never eat lunch alone during a workday?17. Volunteer.
Done. Thank you for giving me the freedom to volunteer in ways other than at a soup kitchen. I was starting to think that's the only kind of volunteering that mattered to these list-makers.18. Go to the beach. 
Done. And now I'm going to cry thinking that people haven't seen the ocean. That really breaks my heart.19. Watch a sunset. One of the most astounding natural occurrences. It happens everywhere, every day.
Done. Agreed.20. Watch a sunrise. See above.
Done. See above.21. Go to a concert.
Done.22. Grow your own food.
Done but I'd really like to do more of this!23. Finish high school.
Done and once I got my PhD I stopped having nightmares about having to go back. Thank you PhD. #worthit24. Write a letter to yourself. To be read in 10 years. That will be interesting.
Good idea! That WILL be interesting!25. Think one positive thought every day before you get out of bed.
Wait so since I've not been doing this is it too late? Why didn't someone tell me when I was first born that this was going to be something I was supposed to have done?! I'm a failure. What's the point of life.26. Decide whether or not you want to have kids. Women reaching the ripe young age of 40 should have come to a conclusion by this point as to whether they want to be incorporating diaper changes, timeouts and acne as a part of their lives. And all the love and joy that comes with it.
Ahh the blissful ignorance of a woman in her early twenties thinking that you can just decide to have babies and make it happen. I sincerely hope you don't have to struggle with infertility. And that by the time you are my age you understand that it's not that simple for all of us. And thank you for calling me ripe.27. Play in the snow. Build a snowman, go skiing, jump on a snow tube.
Done because I was a kid once in a place where we got at least 3 cm of snow at one time. Pretty sure that's all that's required.28. Learn a foreign language. The more obscure, the better.
Depends - do I have to be fluent and is Spanish obscure?29. Play the lottery.
Done and one time I won $4 - OH YEAH.30. Go scuba diving or snorkeling. 
Done. I love snorkeling (in shallow water). It's awesome.31. Give yoga a try. Even if you just sit there and breathe through the whole class. You owe it to yourself.
Done. And the first time I did Bikram I basically did just sit there and breathe through the whole class. And I still sweated more than I ever sweated in my life. But I will say that in most yoga classes if you just sit there and breathe you aren't really going to get much out of it.32. Quit a bad habit. Smoking, biting your nails, gossiping, texting while driving. Identify your worst habit and get rid of it.
Done! I actually quit smoking lots of times, so bonus points!33. Vote. If you’ve never casted a ballot, get your butt to the voting booth! You don’t have to vote for the next president, but at least take part in the local elections. Come on already!
Done. And also "casted" has not been used since the 16th century. I lookeded it up.34. Teach. Teach somebody, anybody, something, anything, new. Does that make sense?
Done. Does what make sense?35. Work out.  Exercise those muscles at least once in your life. For your sake, I hope this is already a well-formed habit.
LOL. Waat.36. Create something and sell it.
This is an interesting idea. I've made lots of stuff but always given it away. Curious.37. Replace your coffee with green tea.
I did that for a while but then I switched back to coffee then I switched to pu-erh. Better for my skin than coffee but worse for my teeth than green tea. But so delicious and caffeine-y.38. Bake bread from scratch.
Bread is really fun! I'd love to take another sourdough class. Maybe then we could get another sourdough starter and I wouldn't kill it.39. Watch international news.
Like, once? Done.40. Attend a festival.
Done. I wish I could go to Merlefest some more. That was awesome.***
This was interesting, mostly because of what it tells me about expectations young women have about turning 40. I remember those days...
Monday, June 05, 2017
40 Before 40 (study/quiz 7)
This list is originally from Insider. I'm not going to respond to each of the items below individually because so many of my reactions are just "wtf" or "gtfo" or "sounds awesome oh right, i forgot i'm not a millionaire" or "sounds like a terrible idea". Of the good ideas, most are "Good Idea!I'll show you what I mean.
"sounds awesome oh right, i forgot i'm not a millionaire"
3. Splurge on a meal at The French Laundry in California, or another three-star Michelin restaurant.
5. Dress up for opening night and see a performance at one of the world's famous opera houses, like the Met in New York or La Scala in Milan.
11. Travel across Europe by train on the elegant Venice-Simplon Orient Express.
20. Go on a spiritual journey, whether it's an ashram in India, the Western Wall in Jerusalem, or St. Peter's in Vatican City.
25. Treat yourself to an expensive accessory, like a Rolex watch or a Chanel bag.
26. Gamble big and sit at the high-rollers table at a casino in Las Vegas.
28. Ski in the French Alps or some other far-flung destination.
31. Go yachting in Monaco or Saint-Tropez, France.
33. Buy an extravagant gift for someone else.
36. Eat grilled steak at a parillada in Argentina or a churrascaria in Brazil.
"sounds like a terrible idea" or "yawn"
"sounds awesome oh right, i forgot i'm not a millionaire"
1. Celebrate New Year's Eve in a foreign city. (Oh! I've done this anyway so I guess you don't have to be a millionaire!)
3. Splurge on a meal at The French Laundry in California, or another three-star Michelin restaurant.
5. Dress up for opening night and see a performance at one of the world's famous opera houses, like the Met in New York or La Scala in Milan.
11. Travel across Europe by train on the elegant Venice-Simplon Orient Express.
20. Go on a spiritual journey, whether it's an ashram in India, the Western Wall in Jerusalem, or St. Peter's in Vatican City.
25. Treat yourself to an expensive accessory, like a Rolex watch or a Chanel bag.
26. Gamble big and sit at the high-rollers table at a casino in Las Vegas.
28. Ski in the French Alps or some other far-flung destination.
31. Go yachting in Monaco or Saint-Tropez, France.
33. Buy an extravagant gift for someone else.
36. Eat grilled steak at a parillada in Argentina or a churrascaria in Brazil.
"sounds like a terrible idea" or "yawn"
2. Challenge yourself to complete something that seems impossible. Compete in the Ironman Triathlon, climb a mountain, or finish a 100-mile race.
9. Play a round of golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California or Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, considered to be some of the best golf courses in America.
12. Sit courtside at a basketball game and cheer on your team.
13. Quit a job.
12. Sit courtside at a basketball game and cheer on your team.
13. Quit a job.
34. Drastically reinvent your look at least once.
"gtfo"
29. Learn five good wine and cheese pairings.
30. Sleep outdoors without sacrificing luxury at a "glamping" accommodation, like Montana's Resort at Paws Up.
"good idea! I've already done this"
4. Prepare food at a soup kitchen or volunteer your time in another way to help others.
10. Go skinny-dipping.
14. Buy a piece of art you're proud to display.
15. Drive down California's Pacific Coast Highway or the Great Ocean Road in southern Australia.
27. Perfect at least one dish — even if you're not a skilled cook.
32. Learn something new. Take a pilot lesson, learn a new language, or get certified in a new sport, like scuba diving.
37. Go on a solo trip.
38. Take on a leadership position.
38. Take on a leadership position.
39. Break a bad habit.
40. Go wine tasting in Italy's Tuscany region, France's Champagne area, or another region that's famous for its wine.
7. Go on safari in Africa (*if you're talking about a photo safari)
That leaves the following:
6. Meet a hero (Done! Unless we aren't counting our parents which seems mean.)
8. Enjoy a really amazing $100 bottle of wine without thinking about the price tag (sounds good except by definition*)
22. Stay at the Four Seasons, or another luxury hotel, on a whim (sounds good except by definition*)
* how can you make a point of ordering a $100 bottle of wine "without thinking about the price tag" or make a point of staying a luxury hotel but do it on a whim?
16. Do something good for someone who doesn't know who you are (Good idea! Have I done this?)
17. See Madonna, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, or another iconic artist perform live (I appreciate the sentiment but iconic is a pretty vague term: do Beck, Phish, Tori Amos, or Parliament count?)
18. Read every book by a favorite author (Good idea! Have I done this?)
19. Return the favor and take your parents out for a nice dinner (Just once?)
23. Donate 5% of your earnings to a charity each year (Good idea! What's 5% of $0?)
24. Bungee jump, sky dive, go white-water rafting, or do something to get your adrenaline pumping (Ziplining!!)
35. Get in the best shape of your life (Unfortunately I have a little more than 3 months and I'm not sure that will be enough time...)
Looking at all these 40 before 40 lists is starting to make me nervous or angry or often both but sometimes excited.
Friday, June 02, 2017
30 before 40 (study/quiz 6)
This list is originally from supermoney. It's a generic list but with more realistic "suggestions"/orders.
1. Learn a foreign language
I kind of did this already - Spanish and German. I think I basically got to the point where I need to live in Madrid or Berlin (or both!) for a few years to really master them. I mean seriously, how expensive can that be? Oh wait, I only have 104 days. Well maybe by 42.
2. Travel abroad
Done! I've been to Spain (NOT LONG ENOUGH) and England and France and Germany (NOT LONG ENOUGH) and Canada and Mexico. I'd like to go more places but I've got a pretty good start I think! :-)
3. Dye your hair
Done! I was actually proud of myself when I stopped dying my hair! Of course now I'm considering taking it up again - maybe just this once...
4. Take a class in something weird
Let's see, I took silk painting with mom once and that was awesome. I took improv which is weird to some people. I took a sourdough class with collin which was really fun. I took Tai Chi in college which was memorable. I also have a bunch of classes checked/circled in the Durham Arts Council catalog - maybe I should take one of those!
5. Test drive a fabulous car
Once I rented an Infiniti G35 for the weekend (accidental upgrade thank-you-very-much) which was pretty sweet. I like the idea of driving a race car better than test-driving a car I can't afford to buy.
6. Write a letter to yourself or your future children
Again, this is a good idea and I will definitely add this to my list!
7. Become a regular at a Capoeira or Zumba class
Once I was walking down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki and found myself behind this group of folks in Capoeira abadas and every single one of them had the single greatest ass I've ever seen in my entire life. I would love to be a regular in a Capoeira class but I'm thinking Tai Chi might be more my speed. Literally.
8. Live/work/volunteer on a farm
Oooh! That sounds like something I really wish I would have done before I got too fat and tired. :-) I guess it's still not too late to volunteer every once in awhile. Maybe I'll find a nice tomato farm...
9. Sing/dance/speak/act in front of a large group of people
Done! Improv! I also did theatre in high school and community theatre when I was a kid.
10. Break one bad habit
I thought I had broken my habit of biting my nails but that seems to have reemerged as I've gotten closer to 40...
11. Send someone a handwritten card or letter
Done. So many times. I regret that this has gone out of fashion.
12. Become a mentor to someone
Not sure anyone wants or needs my advice...
13. Take a road trip
Mom and I have taken a few awesome road trips. Key West with Richard and Isaac, San Francisco to Portland, and San Francisco to Asheboro, NC. I think one could always take more road trips, especially with those they love. It's a great experience.
14. Grow a salad for dinner
Bucket List! I just worry that I've gotten too old to learn how to grow vegetables. Is there such a thing?
15. Have a green smoothie
LOL - so many times. I did live in San Francisco for 5 years, y'all.
16. Watch the movie “This is 40”
Ugh. Reluctantly added to Netflix DVD queue.
17. Forgive an old foe
Forgiven I guess, since I can't remember any old foes. Except that one, and you don't mean her, do you? Surely not.
18. Buy something expensive for yourself
Does a PhD count? I mean I had to work for it sure, but it wasn't cheap either.
19. Tell your friends and family you love them
What kind of person gets to 40 without doing this? Or am I supposed to call everyone I love the night before just in case I actually disintegrate or forget who I am?
20. Do something you’re afraid of
This is very general. Everyone has probably done something that scares them, right? Performing improv was scary every time, even the rehearsals, so I guess that counts. I also snorkeled and had a panic attack when I swam over the edge of the shelf. That was scary as shit. Oh, and I got a PhD. Scary. So I guess this one is covered. Although I still think ziplining might be appropriate.
21. Watch a documentary on an issue you don’t understand
Done. But now I understand it. Love documentaries. Wish there was one about turning 40. I did a search and found one that was in French. All the answers, right in front of me but so far away...
22. Do a house sit
Like in the Holiday! Sounds awesome! But no.
23. Learn how to create a fancy dessert at home
I did recently go through all of my recipes and I have a couple that would be very interesting to try. I mean, I am trying to lose weight before 40 but if it's required by my bucket list who am I do deny myself?
24. Clean out the attic and basement
Since both are crawl spaces and inaccessible to normal-sized humans this is unnecessary. thank god.
25. Volunteer at a hospital or retirement home
Does a Senior Center count? Then done.
26. Go skinny dipping (in the moonlight if possible)
Again with the skinny-dipping! Technically done and definitely in the moonlight. Who goes skinny-dipping in the middle of the day? Although it would be a great way to avoid those pesky tan lines.
27. Go camping by yourself
I would like to do this. This is a good activity. This scares me and also is something I've wanted to do for a long time. This might make the list. Although I might actually do it in the back yard.
28. Attend service at a house of worship of a religion you’re not familiar with
Done - I converted to Episcopalianism which required me to start going to an Episcopal church which was really weird and awesome at first. I would also like to try a Quaker meeting. I know that said religion and all of these are Christian but I would feel weird going to a place of worship for "THE EXPERIENCE MAN" - that doesn't seem respectful to me.
29. Watch a silent film
Done! I'll watch a lot more by the time I turn 40, too, since I think I'm going to try to watch the AFI Top 100 by then!
30. Swim in the ocean
Done! I can't imagine life without having floated around in the ocean, being pushed and pulled by the tide and feeling little fish swim in and out and I can't imagine never having seen the little crabs and things finding their hiding places and without having stood and watched the waves come in and go out and feeling my feet sink deeper and deeper into the sand until they are covered and then stepping back out and I'm like 6 inches taller.
I need to go to the beach soon. I miss it.
I especially like the way this article closes:
"This is just a basic list to get you warmed up. Think about your life, your dreams, your goals—what keeps getting pushed back, what do you still really want to do? What’s important? Make time for the things that matter."
Good advice.
11 before 40 (study/quiz 5)
This list is another generic one, from Inc.com.
According to the article, the tasks below "are 11 things you've absolutely got to do before you turn 40. And if you're beyond 40 and haven't checked these off your bucket list just yet, it's definitely not too late to get started."
Not sure how "absolutely got to do before you turn 40" translates into "it's definitely not too late to get started" if you're over 40 but whatever. Here goes.
1. Shower in a waterfall
"So many places around the world offer waterfall hikes. Take the trail on a hot day, and look forward to the refreshing reward at the end."
This sounds like a nice experience but this is not necessarily something I need to do before 40. Or maybe since I've already stood under a waterfall I've already done it? I'm confused by the whole "shower" concept. Like, do I need to bring shampoo and stuff or do you actually just mean stand under a waterfall? I need more details or less ambiguity.
2. Machu Picchu
"There's nothing better than experiencing one of the most revered sites of Peru. Make a couple other stops in South America while you're on the continent. It may be a long time before you get back again."
Yes, I will definitely "make a couple other stops in South America" while there. What the hell, may as well hit Argentina while we're here, right y'all? Oh and I hear this new place BRAZIL is supposed to be the SHIT. Let's totally stop. I mean, we're here, right? And I'm not 40 yet? Or maybe I am but that doesn't even matter? Yeah, TOTALLY.
3. Start something that lasts
"Whether it's a business, a nonprofit, a community, or a product, make something that will hold your legacy even after you leave--that others will remember you for even when you're not around."
Because nothing you make after turning 40 matters to anyone. But don't give up. Surely someone somewhere gives a shit about you but don't expect them to actually come and spend time with you. That's what the legacy is for, idiot.
4. Float in the Dead Sea
"Take a month off one summer to go to Europe, do some wandering in the Middle East, and swim in the Dead Sea. Just float, and let the salt do the work."
You know what I love about my job? I told my boss that I needed to go to Europe and then wander around in the Middle East and float in the Dead Sea, "because what the hell I'm almost 40 and you expect me to take a long weekend and do float work in the Atlantic Ocean? I mean I work so hard is it so wrong to want the ocean to work a little, too?" And my boss was like, "totally you should definitely do that and don't worry about PTO and actually here's a bonus because what kind of rich asshole would be working here if she actually had enough money to go to Europe at the drop of a hat and float in the Middle East on a moment's notice? Have fun!" and I was like "Totally!" My job is awesome.
Just kidding I don't have a job. But great idea otherwise.
5. Find someone to mentor
"Having someone to look up to is incredibly inspiring, but so is being able to pass down your wisdom to someone else. When you give your advice to others, it might even push you to realize many things about yourself."
Come sit on my knee children and listen to how much I will inspire you:
Stay in school. Don't gain 40 pounds right before reaching a major milestone birthday. Floss every day but even then you will have to have major dental work it is just a fact of life. Enjoy life but make sure you take advice from people who have jobs and are living their dreams. Good luck to you. My job is done.
You're right that felt good and I do realize lots more awesome things about myself. Thanks Inc.
6. New Year's Eve in Times Square
"While it feels a bit overrated, there's sometimes great fun in doing touristic activities, especially in groups of people you love."
So I guess this list wasn't written with the panic-attack-suffering-social-anxiety expert in mind. Thanks anyway. I'm glad you have a huge group of people that you love that you can go do "touristic activities" with. Maybe you can also go fuck yourselves together, too.
7. Travel with one person you love
"Although traveling in big groups or alone is fun, there's some unspeakable intimacy that forms from traveling with just one person you love. Embrace it, and seize the adventure, uncertainty, and excitement of everything to come."
Who are these people who only travel in groups? Is this a thing? I don't even remember going out with a group much less traveling with one. I'm getting confused.
8. Visit a different religious culture
"Whether it's a cultural event in another country, or a religious service you haven't experienced in your own hometown, try something different. Visit a Buddhist temple, see a Catholic cathedral, enter a public prayer at a mosque. Be respectful, but open, and the experience will be enriching."
Oh I love visiting religious cultures. My favorite time was going to Mount Shasta.
9. Visit your elementary school teacher
"Seeing people from your past can really show you just how much you've grown. Otherwise, you don't have anything to compare to."
10. Drink more tea--and try different kinds
"You might be surprised by how much cutting out coffee changes your mood."
You are so right. When I learned I was allergic to coffee and stopped drinking it and getting those terrible rashes, I found that my mood really improved. Also, pu-erh is delicious.
11. Write a letter to yourself
"Keep a time capsule of sorts for you to open up after you're at a totally different point in life. What you read might make you nostalgic--maybe even sad--but it'll definitely show you how much you've grown, and how beautiful you've become."
All snarkiness aside, this is actually a really good idea. In fact, I actually see this blog as a time capsule of sorts. As I approach 40 I've been trying to put some of my older blog entries and photos into a photo book and it's really been fun and also a little sad and happy. Just lots of feelings.
According to the article, the tasks below "are 11 things you've absolutely got to do before you turn 40. And if you're beyond 40 and haven't checked these off your bucket list just yet, it's definitely not too late to get started."
Not sure how "absolutely got to do before you turn 40" translates into "it's definitely not too late to get started" if you're over 40 but whatever. Here goes.
1. Shower in a waterfall
"So many places around the world offer waterfall hikes. Take the trail on a hot day, and look forward to the refreshing reward at the end."
This sounds like a nice experience but this is not necessarily something I need to do before 40. Or maybe since I've already stood under a waterfall I've already done it? I'm confused by the whole "shower" concept. Like, do I need to bring shampoo and stuff or do you actually just mean stand under a waterfall? I need more details or less ambiguity.
2. Machu Picchu
"There's nothing better than experiencing one of the most revered sites of Peru. Make a couple other stops in South America while you're on the continent. It may be a long time before you get back again."
Yes, I will definitely "make a couple other stops in South America" while there. What the hell, may as well hit Argentina while we're here, right y'all? Oh and I hear this new place BRAZIL is supposed to be the SHIT. Let's totally stop. I mean, we're here, right? And I'm not 40 yet? Or maybe I am but that doesn't even matter? Yeah, TOTALLY.
3. Start something that lasts
"Whether it's a business, a nonprofit, a community, or a product, make something that will hold your legacy even after you leave--that others will remember you for even when you're not around."
Because nothing you make after turning 40 matters to anyone. But don't give up. Surely someone somewhere gives a shit about you but don't expect them to actually come and spend time with you. That's what the legacy is for, idiot.
4. Float in the Dead Sea
"Take a month off one summer to go to Europe, do some wandering in the Middle East, and swim in the Dead Sea. Just float, and let the salt do the work."
You know what I love about my job? I told my boss that I needed to go to Europe and then wander around in the Middle East and float in the Dead Sea, "because what the hell I'm almost 40 and you expect me to take a long weekend and do float work in the Atlantic Ocean? I mean I work so hard is it so wrong to want the ocean to work a little, too?" And my boss was like, "totally you should definitely do that and don't worry about PTO and actually here's a bonus because what kind of rich asshole would be working here if she actually had enough money to go to Europe at the drop of a hat and float in the Middle East on a moment's notice? Have fun!" and I was like "Totally!" My job is awesome.
Just kidding I don't have a job. But great idea otherwise.
5. Find someone to mentor
"Having someone to look up to is incredibly inspiring, but so is being able to pass down your wisdom to someone else. When you give your advice to others, it might even push you to realize many things about yourself."
Come sit on my knee children and listen to how much I will inspire you:
Stay in school. Don't gain 40 pounds right before reaching a major milestone birthday. Floss every day but even then you will have to have major dental work it is just a fact of life. Enjoy life but make sure you take advice from people who have jobs and are living their dreams. Good luck to you. My job is done.
You're right that felt good and I do realize lots more awesome things about myself. Thanks Inc.
6. New Year's Eve in Times Square
"While it feels a bit overrated, there's sometimes great fun in doing touristic activities, especially in groups of people you love."
So I guess this list wasn't written with the panic-attack-suffering-social-anxiety expert in mind. Thanks anyway. I'm glad you have a huge group of people that you love that you can go do "touristic activities" with. Maybe you can also go fuck yourselves together, too.
7. Travel with one person you love
"Although traveling in big groups or alone is fun, there's some unspeakable intimacy that forms from traveling with just one person you love. Embrace it, and seize the adventure, uncertainty, and excitement of everything to come."
Who are these people who only travel in groups? Is this a thing? I don't even remember going out with a group much less traveling with one. I'm getting confused.
8. Visit a different religious culture
"Whether it's a cultural event in another country, or a religious service you haven't experienced in your own hometown, try something different. Visit a Buddhist temple, see a Catholic cathedral, enter a public prayer at a mosque. Be respectful, but open, and the experience will be enriching."
Oh I love visiting religious cultures. My favorite time was going to Mount Shasta.
9. Visit your elementary school teacher
"Seeing people from your past can really show you just how much you've grown. Otherwise, you don't have anything to compare to."
10. Drink more tea--and try different kinds
"You might be surprised by how much cutting out coffee changes your mood."
You are so right. When I learned I was allergic to coffee and stopped drinking it and getting those terrible rashes, I found that my mood really improved. Also, pu-erh is delicious.
11. Write a letter to yourself
"Keep a time capsule of sorts for you to open up after you're at a totally different point in life. What you read might make you nostalgic--maybe even sad--but it'll definitely show you how much you've grown, and how beautiful you've become."
All snarkiness aside, this is actually a really good idea. In fact, I actually see this blog as a time capsule of sorts. As I approach 40 I've been trying to put some of my older blog entries and photos into a photo book and it's really been fun and also a little sad and happy. Just lots of feelings.
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