1. Study a new language

      So I started number one on my list a few months ago. This came about because I'm thinking of applying to a job in Italy for the summer. Realistically, the chances of me getting the job are slim since they hire from many different countries. However on the off chance that I do get the job, I figured knowing some Italian would definitely be a plus. So, for the past few months I've been studying Italian with Rosetta Stone. Now if your not familiar with Rosetta Stone, it's a computer program you work on independently at your own pace. It uses full immersion to teach you the chosen language. This means there is no English spoken at all. This is a little confusing at first since it is kinda setup like a computer game and videos. But, you can catch on quickly. It's kinda fun and something to do in the few moments of free time I have. It goes through writing, reading, grammar, and speaking. The speaking can be a little embarrassing when my roommate hears me yelling buon giorno in my bedroom because my mic is acting up. But all in all, I think it will be fun to say I know another language. Also, if my dream does come true and I make it to Italy, I will be able to find a bathroom and order a pizza. Which I feel both will be extremely helpful and important.

      So, for now I started my list completion with number one. I'm thinking of doing number 19 soon. Also I want to start looking into volunteer opportunities. I'm just not sure what I want to do. I need a break from children and adult conversation would be wonderful. So any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Till next time, Arrivederci'

The List

       I start this blog as a twenty-eight year old. I have a cute little apartment. A job I work hard at and for the most part like. My family is as nuts as everyone elses, but I'm learning to love that about them. My friends have scattered across the country after college. Which can be hard at times, but also nice when it's time to take a vacation. I like to do new things, but feel I could be more spontaneous and adventurous. I'm nervous about who I am and where I'm going, just like everyone else.

So here I am, on my own again. Starting a new chapter in my life after going through a very rough patch. What better time then now to challenge myself with a list of things to push my boundaries, make me uncomfortable, and have a little fun.

      Now I have to admit, this is not in original idea. I actually stole this idea from an old friend who is doing the same thing, blog and all. After googling this idea, I found it wasn't an original idea for her either. I guess I'm a little slow with the new trends. But anyway, I think this will be good for me. This list about me and doing things for myself and learning more about myself. I did not put any obscure ideas like getting married, travel the world or win the lottery. I tried to make it realistic and possible to do in my time frame. Which is a little less then two years. (Yes, I am 28 now.) I also included a few back up options just in case a few are impossible because of time or money. I won't chicken out of any, but I am not a millionaire either.

     Why publish this for everyone to read? Well, first I doubt anyone will read it, and second even having a blog is pushing my limits. Normally I am a private person. I don't update my facebook status every hour. I don't have youtube videos of myself falling down stairs. I share on a need to know basis. But since this list is about learning more about myself and pushing myself to do new things, and blogging seemed to fit. So here’s the list and as I complete items I will update you all on my little adventures. It should be fun and I'm sure very interesting.

1. Study a new language.
2. Try being a vegetarian for a month.
3. Skydive
4. Cook a holiday dinner for family.
5. Volunteer when I don't have the time.
6. Sing karaoke solo.
7. Buy myself a nice piece of jewelery.
8. Write letters to my family members about how much I love them.
9. Travel to any foreign country.
10. Learn to snowboard.
11. Go white water rafting.
12. Camp in a tent in the middle of nowhere.
13. See the pacific ocean.
14. Give more then I can afford to charity.
15. Ask a stranger to dance.
16. Host a dinner party for friends.
17. Help a stranger.
18. Attempt to surf.
19. See a movie alone.
20. Have a weekend spa retreat with girlfriends.
21. Take my grandma on vacation.
22. Make my new apartment feel and look like a home.
23. Take a self-defense class.
24. Run a 5k.
25. Dance in the rain.
26. Break something on purpose.
27. Oktoberfest at a brewery.
28. Go on in all-American road trip.
29. Dancing lessons.
30. Visit a winery.

Extras

• Swim with dolphins.
• Go to a proper brunch
• Get my makeup professionally done.
• Try an expensive champagne.
• Be in a flash mob.
• Para-sail