#6: Visit a new State

It is my goal that in the history of my life before I die, I visit all 50 states in these United States. The rule is that I have to stay there at least long enough to take in some local culture. I have visited 11 so far, so now I just have 39 to go...and I pretty much have the West Coast covered, so looks like I will be getting on a plane. And if anyone wants to come along, I am always up for a traveling companion. Just beware, I am entertained VERY easily. Where is the World's Largest Ball of Yarn located?
Also, don't worry, I will be adding pics to the blog again soon. I just haven't been in a picture taking mood.

Goal #5:Learn a new skill

This one is cheating a little, but it is a good one that I like to do so it is staying a tradition. I always try to keep the interests varied and to be something that I have little or no skill in or that I have never done before. In the past, I have learned to do things like ski, cook, decorate, paint, refinish furniture, things like that. I am home in Cali for the first time in a long time, so I am going to take advantage of having a yard, a big kitchen with my very own cook to consult with, and a piano. Here are just a few of the things that I will learn to do this year:
1. Grow something. I have never actually planted something in the ground and followed it through to planthood. I love fresh tomatoes, so I think I will talk my family into giving me a little corner of yard to plant 1 tomato plant. Maybe a few more things depending on how the whole tomato plant goes. I like watermelon...
2. Bake bread. I have never actually baked bread from scratch either, which has always made me feel like my pioneer ancestors are a little upset with me. So, I will learn to make the best bread and rolls ever. Like I said, I have a big kitchen and my very own live in expert to help me.
3. Really learn to play the piano. I took eight years of piano and never really learned how to read notes. So, I am teaching myself to read notes and play again. I am excited to be able to play and really know what I am doing.

I am sure that there will be a lot more that I can think of that I would like to learn, but for now these will make me happy. Also, on a side note, I already have something that I will be doing that I have never done before: Singing in Sacrament Meeting! Mom, Jen and I are going to be singing in a trio for the Easter program. Hopefully no one leaves the church after I am done...

Goal #4: Read a New Book Every Month

Now that I am not in school, I feel like I have to try a little harder to educate myself and keep my mind active. So, I take my love of reading + love of learning and there we have a goal that I will love to do (almost as much as the shoe habit that I am thoroughly enjoying). I have read a few books so far-I am currently reading the book called "Girlfriends talk about Men". It is pretty fun and I figure I can use all the tips I can get, right? I am going to the library tomorrow so that I can just rent the books I need. Now, what to read next. Any suggestions?