Bucket Lists

It seems that ever since the movie came out a couple years ago (I can't for the life of me remember how many), people have been making their own 'Bucket Lists' or, for those of you unfamiliar with the term, a list of things to do before you die. I had dinner with my parents the other night and my dad was talking about one of the items on his list, which in turn got me thinking about my own. Now, I realize that I am in no danger of dying, especially of old age, anytime in the near future. But I don't really think a bucket list has to start at an advanced age. In fact, I believe it should start early as there are things that might require a more youthful you. Certainly, my bucket list will grow as I'm exposed to new things, as well it should. However, certain items are already on my list and one, I realized, I am lucky enough to be on the cusp of accomplishing.

When analyzing the things I want to achieve in life, or experience, I realized that writing and publishing a romance novel was very high on the list. It hasn't always been there. It actually wasn't on there at all until I picked up my pen (or rather my computer) and began writing again. Writing started out as something just for me, a hobby if you will. But as my stories and characters began to take shape, I realized how much I wanted to share them. And I am lucky enough that someone agreed they should be shared. So as I am on the verge of achieving one item on my 'bucket list' I wanted to sit down and name a few more. I won't bore you with a long list but just a couple of the top items.

The first item has to be Travel. I have been to many places in Europe. Having spent a semester in college in London, I spent my weekends traveling the English countryside as well as trips to France, Italy, and Wales. I've been to Germany and Monaco (a place I highly recommend). But there are places I regret not making it to in my short time there, and moreover, places in other countries I want to visit. Top of the location list has to be Ireland. With such a rich history and land, I want to tour the Irish countryside, with maybe a side trip to Scotland, as long as I'm in that neck of the woods. Outside of Europe, I'd love to go on an African Safari and see the Great Wall of China (although I would say these are more interests than bucket list items as Ireland is).

Also, I want to learn how to cook. I'm not talking about breading a chicken and making some pasta with bottled sauce. I mean really learn how to cook. Not following a recipe but following instinct and creating new dishes. I want to wow the neighbors when I have a dinner party and have my friends asking me for recipes. I want to know how to cook gourmet dishes and comfort food with the same amount of expertise.

So now it's your turn. What's on your 'Bucket List'?