My Bucket List
Ranked #598 in Squidoo Community, #81,876 overall | Donates to Save the Children
160 Things to Do Before I Die
Ok, I know it's supposed to be 100 Things To Do Before You Die... but I never do things by halves, I am a queen of lists, and I want to do a lot of things!!
Welcome to my Bucket List. It's a mixture of the kind of travel, experiences and learning things you would find on a "things to do before you die" list, along with personal goals, Squidoo to-do's, and little, simple, personal things to do with my home and family. I have been writing it on and off for a few years now but thought that putting it here on Squidoo would motivate me to achieve more of it.
The aim is to add a lens as I tick off each goal, about the subject in question, so eventually this will become a personal lensography of sorts, too!
I have had great fun putting this together and creating this page to share with you. I hope you enjoy it, and that it inspires and teaches you about creating a bucket list for yourself, too!
Welcome to my Bucket List. It's a mixture of the kind of travel, experiences and learning things you would find on a "things to do before you die" list, along with personal goals, Squidoo to-do's, and little, simple, personal things to do with my home and family. I have been writing it on and off for a few years now but thought that putting it here on Squidoo would motivate me to achieve more of it.
The aim is to add a lens as I tick off each goal, about the subject in question, so eventually this will become a personal lensography of sorts, too!
I have had great fun putting this together and creating this page to share with you. I hope you enjoy it, and that it inspires and teaches you about creating a bucket list for yourself, too!
"Destiny grants us our wishes, but in its own way, in order to give us something beyond our wishes."
- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Do you have a Bucket List?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
My Bucket List 101
Why make a Bucket List? Well, for me, I wanted to make a list of things both large and small that I want to achieve in my life, to keep me focused and remind me of those things. It is all too easy to get sidetracked from things in life and before you know it, it's too late to do many of the things you wanted.When I put this together, I made one huge list and then organised the points into sections, such as hobbies, goals for home and garden, spiritual, family, career and so on.That way, I can refer to things I need to be doing in everyday life to achieve short-term goals, as well as keep my eye on the long-term goals too!
When creating a Bucket List, you need to ask yourself lots of questions in order to search deep and think about the things you really want to achieve in life. These can be both small and large things (you want easily achievable things as well as the "biggies" - ticking off goals regularly keeps you motivated and focused on achieving more!)
If you find that your list is running away with you, focus on what really matters. For example, you might harbour a dream of visiting almost everywhere in the world, but for your Bucket List, you could choose the ten, twenty or fifty places you'd most like to see. Ask yourself which you would pick if you were only allowed to choose a certain number.
If you have the opposite problem and have trouble thinking of things at all, try visiting other people's Bucket Lists to get inspiration. Think about old hobbies you might like to rekindle, or skills you'd like to learn. What were your childhood dreams? What is the one thing in life you would most like to achieve? When you're gone, what would you like to be remembered for? The trick is to think, "if I could do anything, where time and money are no object, what would I like to do?"
Warning: This list is quite long so please don't feel you have to read it all! This is an indulgent labour of love to act as a personal target for me, so feel free to read the parts that are of interest to you. I have divided my Bucket List into four main areas, and you can jump to areas of interest if you wish. I hope that you find some inspiration here or simply enjoy reading about my exploits!
Bucket List Sections
Jump to Area of Interest!
Who is MissMerFaery, by the way?
I'm a work at home mum, writer, artist and general crazy person! You can find out all about me here:
Do you Have a Bucket List?
Share it Here!
If you have a Bucket List, either here on Squidoo or elsewhere on the web, add a link to it below!
Pukeko's Bucket List
When I first read the challenge to make a bucket l more...0 points
My Travel Bucket List
'The Bucket List' was a movie that inspired millio more...0 points
My Personal Goals
This section focuses on the more personal goals from my Bucket List. It covers things about me, my family and friends, along with my two passions - my writing and my art. Here you'll find all my Squidoo goals and achievements too!Learn more about what I want to do in these areas and why. Do you have goals and dreams for your family, your passions and your work, too?
- 1. Become a Mum
- 2. Homeschool our daughter
- 3. Celebrate the passing of the seasons and festivals as a family
- 4. Meet my Canadian soul sister
- 5. Get fit and healthy!
- 6. Write 50 great lenses on Squidoo and become a Giant Squid!
- 7. Write 100 great lenses on Squidoo and become a Giant 100 Clubber!
- 8. Achieve Lens of the Day
- 9. Make the Squidoo Top 100
“Families are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts.”
- Anon
I Want To...
Have a happy, healthy family
1. Become a Mum
ACHIEVED: November 2009
Freya was born in November 2009, and I just love being a mum! Time will tell if there will be any more, but for now I am content running around after our whirlwind of a two-year-old daughter!
2. Homeschool our daughter
If I listed all the reasons I want to homeschool here, I'd take up the whole page. But in a nutshell, it is for a better education learning at her own pace, the learning and growth opportunities available outside of a set school curriculum, and, most importantly of all, the chance to maintain her childhood innocence throughout her childhood, and be able to enjoy her childhood.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
3. Celebrate the passing of the seasons and festivals as a family
I feel a great connection to Mother Earth and have a great love for the festivals of the year that celebrate the passing seasons. Although I mark each festival accordingly, from now on I want to celebrate all the sacred pagan festivals with as much effort and reverence as I do Christmas and Easter.I want to share these days as a family, certainly with Freya as she gets older. My aim here is to grow from the small and simple things that I already do, such as a relevant meal or craft, to actually decorating for the occasion and spending the day doing things related to its meaning.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
4. Meet my Canadian soul sister
ACHIEVED: August 2011
A few years ago I met a kindred spirit online. She has come to be more than just a best friend, she is my anam cara, and the sister I never had.As with so many of the online friends we make, we live miles apart - me in England, her in Canada. After being unable to fly in 2009 due to health, she finally made it to England in 2011, and Freya was finally able to meet her Canadian godmother!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
5. Get fit and healthy!
My fitness levels have plummeted since pregnancy and being a mum. So I'd like to get myself fit again really soon.I am totally not a gym person. Instead, I aim to start walking more, and Wii-ing more, and dancing more. I'd like to improve my flexibility with yoga, too, and when fitness levels allow, try my hand at kickboxing.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
“Create, craft, innovate, write, talk, storytell, review, recommend, and stand out from the crowd”
- Squidoo
I Want To...
Be successful on Squidoo
6. Write 50 great lenses on Squidoo and become a Giant Squid!
ACHIEVED: July 2010
After a spell away from Squidoo for much of 2009 whilst pregnant and then nursing a newborn, I joined the RocketMoms in April 2010 and my lensmaking really took off. I successfully applied to be a Giant Squid in July 2010!
My 50th Lens
I had written just over 50 lenses when I applied, but this was my actual 50th, created to celebrate how much RocketMoms had helped me get back into Squidoo with a vengeance!
7. Write 100 great lenses on Squidoo and become a Giant 100 Clubber!
ACHIEVED: January 2011
I made the Giant 100 Club in January 2011! Thanks to the motivation of RocketMoms, Get Cracking and the Squid Clubs, I pressed on with making lenses, carving out niches and writing about things I loved, until I reached 99 lenses, and figured it was about time I wrote a lensography...
My 100th Lens
...and so I wrote it, for my 100th lens!
8. Achieve Lens of the Day
ACHIEVED: May 2010
Am over the moon to say that I have since achieved this four times! It's funny, because it happened on lenses that I never even thought about receiving LOTD for. Just goes to show that life is full of wonderful surprises! I received the honours in May 2010, September 2010, April 2011 and August 2011.
My Lens of the Day Winners
9. Make the Squidoo Top 100
ACHIEVED: January 2011
I made the Top 100 in January 2011 with one of my favourite lenses, about baked potatoes!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
10. Make the Squidoo home page by getting in the top five of a main topic
ACHIEVED: January 2011
My potatoes lens continued to climb, and made the overall #4 spot in January 2011, getting it on the home page! It then dropped and sat in the 30's for a good few weeks, hovering between 4th and 5th in the Food topic.NB: The homepage has since had a major overhaul (as have the categories) and being featured on the homepage is now more randomly selected.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
11. Make the Squidoo Top Five
ACHIEVED: January 2011
As you will have read in the previous goal, my baked potato lens reached #4 in January 2011. Yay!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
My Highest Ranked Lens
12. Hit the Top Spot on Squidoo
Where to go from the top five? Well, the only way is up!When I was a kid I thought it would be cool to be number one in the UK music charts.
Now I'm a grown up Squid, I think it'd be cool to be number one in the Squid charts! I made #4... but can I make it to #1? Here's hoping!
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
13. Become a Giant Squid Colossal
Since I first published this Bucket List, the Giant Squid program changed a little bit, and there are now varying levels of Giant-ness. My next goal is to reach Giant Squid Colossal - 250 quality lenses. 14. Become a Giant Squid Leviathan
After hitting the Colossal stage, I'll be aiming for Leviathan - slowly but surely! That's 500 quality lenses and counting. 15. Become a Squid Angel
ACHIEVED: February 2011
I had wanted to be a Squid Angel for a long time but had never had enough time to dedicate to the task. However, in February 2011 I got the opportunity to be an extra RocketMoms Angel to help out with the reading through of the new subtopics that had been introduced. Shortly afterwards, the new Angel program was launched and I became the permanent Neighborhood Angel for Birthdays and Wiccan/Pagan/Druid. Squid Angels now no longer need to be assigned to a particular category, so I tend to bless as I find now.
My Angel Blessings
16. Write a lens for every subtopic on Squidoo!
This is an ongoing challenge... there are around 325 subtopics on Squidoo and I aim to write at least one lens for all of them. It will no doubt take me a year or three but I am determined to get there! I do love to make lenses, after all, and am most likely to be heard proclaiming on a regular basis, "Hey, I could make a lens about that!"You can read all about my crazy challenge in the lensography of it below.
My Crazy Squidoo Challenge
My crazy Lens for Every Subtopic Challenge - plus a complete guide to all the subtopics and sub-subtopics should you wish to be a little crazy yourself...!
Do you Have Squidoo Goals?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
“Write without pay until somebody offers to pay”
- Mark Twain
I Want To...
Write for a living
17. Earn a decent amount from Squidoo each month
I'm getting there with this one, hitting my mini targets one by one. When my monthly earnings hit a certain level I shall post a big fat tick here - and I am not too far off, you'll be pleased to know! 18. Earn a decent amount from affiliate sales each month
Not too long ago, this would have read "make an affiliate sale", period! But I am now enjoying monthly payouts from Amazon.co.uk and Commission Junction, and have money pending in my Webgains account too.Now I know what works, which niches are successful for me, and which products to focus on.
So this year I want to focus on adding more affiliate products to my lenses and growing what I earn outside of Squidoo.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
19. Become a published author
ACHIEVED: MAY 2009
I have dreamed of being a published author since I was a little girl, so to finally have that dream come true is beyond wonderful!I was a School Library Manager before I moved up north and I wanted to share my passion for getting kids reading and turning school libraries into the hub of the school by writing a book for other librarians. It was accepted for publication by UK publishers E-Print, and Booked In: How to Run a Successful School Library & LRC was published in May 2009. Considering it's a pretty specialist title, it sold very well upon its release.
My published book!
20. Become a published novelist
I love writing stories, and am excellent at starting novels. Alas, I am not so good at finishing them. I usually have another idea and start it before I have finished the last one.There are three main novels that I have made significant progress with, so this year, I want to decide which one to focus on and finish it, before securing a literary agent and publisher!
I also enjoy writing non-fiction, too, and have several books that I am working on right now with a spiritual theme. I would love to see these published as well.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
21. Publish all the novels, children's books, non-fiction, short stories and poems that are currently in my brain
Well, maybe not ALL of them. Because that would require me living to the age of about 253, and much as I'm sure technology will have advanced by the time I'm in my 90's, I'm not sure it will be quite that good.Put it this way, I have a list of novel title ideas and plot ideas as long as the Great Wall of China. I am a queen of lists, and this area is no exception.
However, if I condense some ideas down into short stories. I might just manage it...
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
“Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read.”
- Groucho Marx
I Want To...
Own these in my Lifetime!
The above quote made me giggle. Funnily enough, all of the things on my "want to own" list are animals (beginning with dogs, naturally!) bar two - and one of those is books!
-
22. Lots of dogs
They say you are either a dog or a cat person... I do love cats, but I definitely love dogs more!
I've been blessed with two gorgeous Golden Retrievers in the past, and would love to own more dogs in the future, ideally rescued from animal shelters. Right now I'm waiting for my daughter to be a little older before we have any more (although she's happily have one now - she tries to toddle after any that go past the house!). Dog breeds I love include the Golden Retriever, Red Setter. Springer Spaniel. Afghan Hound, Black Labrador, Husky and Alaskan Malamute.
In an ideal world I'd have oodles of rescue dogs (well, a miniature farm if I'm honest) but not sure my other half would ever let me!! -
23. A black cat or two
I have a love-hate relationship with cats - I love them until they kill one of the lovely birds in my garden! Despite this, and the fact that I AM a dog person, I would still like to have a cat. I grew up with a tortoiseshell tabby who lived to be 19 and loved her to bits.
I have soft spot for black cats, probably due to my love of all things witchy. If I get one I'm going to call him Gobbolino after my favourite childhood book, Gobbolino The Witch's Cat, and if I have two, the other one will be named after Gobbolino's sister, Sootica! -
24. Chickens
I'd love to have some clucking hens wandering around my garden! Fluffy little chicks, fresh eggs for breakfast... bliss! Right now they'd be too much of a commitment, but one day (maybe when I'm nearing retirement) I'd like to be queen of the chicken coop! -
25. Rats
Many people (my mum included) don't like rats at all (she hates the tails). I love them! And mice too, come to that. I've wanted a rat for ages. My partner never had pets as a kid and is not overly fond of them, and so far the only thing he's agreed to having in the house is something small, so I'm working on a rat and hamster. Then, when my daughter is old enough to gang up on him with me, we're gunning for a dog. -
26. Seahorses
Early on in my Squidoo life I read a lens on Keeping Seahorses (which when I searched, seems to no longer be here, sadly). I love marine life and everything to do with the sea, and have long been fascinated by seahorses, so to learn you could keep them at home was a delight! I'd love to try this when I have more time to take care of them. -
27. A donkey or miniature horse/pony (or both!)
I adore donkeys! Whenever I used to visit my adopted horse and pony at our local horse sanctuary, the donkeys always stole the show for me. I have also loved miniature ponies and horses since I was a kid, and being as donkeys need to be kept with a companion (either another donkey, or a pony, or even a goat) then I figured on having a pony too. Being as I'm still working on the dog issue with my other half, my chances of this are currently slim... -
28. All the books on my Amazon wishlist
Or rather, wishlists, because I have them divided into genres and there are, well, rather a lot!
And of course, they get added to. Plus, the fabulous shelves my partner built for my reading room are already nearly full...
So... chances are slim on this one too! But I live in hope... -
29. A funky, flowery VW Beetle
I've never been much of a car person, and I don't actually drive... I keep meaning to learn, honest! I've never had the urge or needed to before, but now that I have moved to a new area and have a daughter I'd like to learn so that we can get out and about more when my partner is working. This is my favourite car, I think they are really cute, and love the daisy designs you can get for them.
Are Bucket Lists Worthwhile?
Is making a bucket list all it's cracked up to be? Is it worth the effort, or a waste of time? Does it help to focus your goals and therefore achieve them, or is it simply a list of pipe dreams?
Bucket Lists - yes or no?
Yes, it is worth making a bucket list because...
ohcaroline says:
What else do you shoot for in life unless you have written them down and plan for their completion.
Ramkitten says:
...because I think it's motivating to look over that list and think about all the things you want to do and see and accomplish as well as the things you already have. Sometimes, too, you can forget about all the things you want to do and get into a rut, so it's good to review the list and choose something to start planning for or just dive right in and do.
SLHamilton says:
Yes.. Definitely. Everyone needs a list of things they would like to do and places they would like to go. Otherwise you're just like a cork in the middle of the ocean.. going wherever the tides take you.
aardvarkapparel says:
Without a bucket list, who would actually jump out of a plane?
Shayleah says:
There are so many things I want to do and having a list inspires me to live every day to the fullest!
No, it is not worth making a bucket list because...
thebestmousetrap says:
Gosh, been to busy to make a bucket list on paper, its all in my head and I keep replacing then cause I can only remember the top 20! i say the list is ever changing, so probably better to keep your options open for what is really doable!
miaponzo says:
I just DO when it comes to such things.. I have never even thought of having a bucket list :)
Broadening my Horizons
Growth, development and learning usually make up a large part of the bucket list, so this section focuses on the hobbies and learning elements of my bucket list.Here, you'll get to know what I like to read, what I used to do and want to do again, and what I've never done but quite fancy a stab at. Still with me? Great, here we go!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
“"A hobby is hard work you wouldn't do for a living."”
- Anon
I Want To...
Rekindle These Past Hobbies!
30. Reading
Okay, so technically, as an avid reader, this isn't so much a past hobby as a current one. But I would like to rekindle the amount of time I used to have to actually do the reading - an hour a day if nothing else.After all, there is so much still out there begging to be read - beautiful new novels, timeless classics, fascinating histories, science and spirituality, inspiring minds...
So my aim is to read every day over lunch and/or in the evening - an hour a day, every day!
31. Playing the piano
I learned to play piano when I was a child, and got up to Grade III before I grew bored of having to practice exam pieces over and over. I used to visit the lady across the road every Saturday morning to practice on her piano, and when she passed away she left me her piano in her will. We moved into a smaller house during the recession and the piano got neglected in a tight corner. Now, it lives in my dining room awaiting its big makeover - it needs a good clean, tune and restoration job on the woodwork, and I need a bit of a refresher on chords! 32. Horse-riding
When I was a teenager I was horse crazy. My friend had a pony and I learned to ride on her, until eventually we both outgrew her. Here I am with her - you can read about her on my other page Why I Love Connemara Ponies.I haven't ridden since I was about 16 and would love to take it up again.
33. Aromatherapy Massage
During my 20's I took a course in aromatherapy massage, learning how to correctly massage the back, arms, legs, hands and feet.I'd like to take this up again and brush up on the techniques used, as well as remind myself of the properties of different oils and their benefits on both mind and body.
“I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.”
- Eartha Kitt
I Want To
Learn...
34. Quantum Physics, Astronomy and Natural Science
Part of the reason I want to homeschool my daughter is because I think learning about the world in a more natural way is so much better than the regime of school that turns everything into a boring chore. Now I am older and wiser my love for physics remains and I actually want to take a BSc in Physics or Natural Science. My key points of interest are quantum physics and astronomy. I am hoping to be in a position to study for my degree part-time next year. 35. To drive
Yes, I know, it's a travesty - I am 32 years old and have never learned to drive. Firstly I never had the urge, and secondly all my jobs and favourite haunts have been conveniently along a decent bus route.Now, however, I live in a completely new area and want to get out into the rural and coastal areas on a more flexible schedule, plus I want to be able to take my daughter out and about too. So, this will hopefully be something I get to tick off very soon!
36. To play the guitar
I did try to learn the guitar once. I bought one of those cheap £30 teach yourself guitar sets that came with guitar and book, got it home, and then realised that I played left-handed, so back it went. I didn't know anything about changing the strings around back then!This time around I'd like to get a proper left-handed guitar and either teach myself or take some lessons.
37. Archery
You may notice as you progress through this Bucket List that I am into quite unconventional things! When it comes to sporting activities, I have very little interest in anything mainstream (except tennis and horse-riding) and would far rather learn more interesting things that have been part of society for centuries, like sword-fighting (see next point) and archery!I have tried my hand at a bow and arrow at fairs, and on my first go I actually hit the bullseye (I think it was a fluke, it went downhill from there!) - I would love to learn the sport properly.
38. Sword-fighting
Sometimes I think I was born in the wrong era. I love all things from the ancient past, particularly the medieval period. I would much rather live in a world of sword fights and roaming around the countryside on horseback, than a world of guns and cars.I'm not talking fencing here, I'm talking proper sword-fighting with proper swords! Which means I'll probably have to work on my arm strength first, because right now I have the arm-wrestling strength of a peanut, and those swords are heavy!
39. Falconry
In keeping with the pastimes of old, here's another sport of kings! I have long had a great love of birds of prey, and having grown up going to many falconry displays, I was eager to try it myself, but as a shy teenager never quite plucked up the courage to go on an experience day.I have since been on one, and having gotten the taste for flying hawks, owls and even an eagle, I know for sure that I want to learn this wonderful sport seriously, from learning about the equipments used and the mews where the birds are housed, to the methods of flying and hunting, and using the lure.
One day, I'd love to have one (or two) of my own - an owl, perhaps, or a kestrel.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
40. Dressage
As you read earlier, I loved horse-riding as a teen and would love to become skilled in several of the more unusual methods of riding!The first of these is dressage. I used to adore watching dressage in the Olympics (which was hard enough in itself given the minuscule amount of coverage it got) - it is so elegant and wonderful to watch the horses practically dance across the arena.
41. Western riding
This is probably not so much of an unusual riding style in the USA, but it is here in England. I love the relaxed cowboy style of western riding, it really appeals to me.This is another form of riding I really want to learn to do properly. And maybe even a bit of rodeo if I get brave enough!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
42. To ride side saddle
The third and final riding style I'd love to learn! Again, wonderfully elegant, with the hats and long skirts for the ladies! Aside from the novelty of learning a style such as this, I love the fact that I would be recreating something that women used to do in the past, and experiencing it for myself. 43. To drive a horse and cart, or pony and trap
I always gets a thrill whenever I see someone driving a horse and trap along the road, and love going for a carriage ride whenever the opportunity arises.To be able to drive one myself would be an even bigger thrill!
New Crafts!
I love crafting! I used to love making things when I was a child, and when I moved into my own house I rediscovered the joys of making handmade things (thanks to QVC, of all things, after catching one of their craft hours!)
I already enjoy papercrafting, sculpting with polymer clay, painting ACEOs and stamping, to name but a few. Here are the other skills I would love to learn:
I already enjoy papercrafting, sculpting with polymer clay, painting ACEOs and stamping, to name but a few. Here are the other skills I would love to learn:
-
44. How to make teddy bears
While I am not a big teddy bear collector myself, I grew up with a grandmother and family friend who both were. There are certain styles of bear that I really do love, and those tend to be either the more unusually shaped ones, and the miniature ones. I have bought a couple of books on making large and miniature bears, and when I get some time I can't wait to sit down and try it. -
45. Needle felting
I fell in love with the idea of needle felting after perusing the craft book sections of Amazon and my local bookstores. I was hooked on the cute little animals you can make that adorned many of the covers. So again, this is something I definitely want to learn and hopefully utilise when I have that oh so precious time! -
46. Jewellery-making
I have had a go at basic jewellery-making, with beads and charms and cord, but want to learn to do it properly. I love the gorgeous beaded designs you can make, the delicate adornments and beautiful charms. -
47. Sculpting with silver and gold art clay
I already sculpt with polymer clay and intend to move onto art clay shortly, when I can afford a small art clay kiln, as I would love to make silver charms for jewellery and adornments for handmade books and other items. -
48. Candle making
I love scented candles, and the idea of making my own pretty designs is very appealing. I also love to use candles in magic and rituals, and know that making my own will add even more power to these. -
49. Soap making
I am a huge fan of handmade soap and the kinds of gorgeous patterned natural bars you find in the likes of shops such as Lush, Which is a bit odd, really, because I hardly ever use bars of soap, I use cleanser and shower gel!! But I am very herbal and love the idea of using nature to make your own handmade beauty items, so this is a must-learn for me!
50. A Language
I confess, I was not the best at languages at school. We studied French, German and Latin, and my recollection of all three is sparse. I would love to become fluent in at least one current language, however, and also a dead or lesser used one - just because I am weird like that!
The language I would most like to learn is Irish Gaelic. There are areas of the Republic of Ireland called the Gaeltacht, where the predominant spoken language is not English, but Irish.
I have a great love for Ireland, and my favourite historical subject is that of the Celtic people. If I could only learn one new language, it would be Irish Gaelic, simply because I feel it connecting me to Irish history and the wonderful mythos of the land itself.
Other languages I would like to learn are:
Italian (because I am part Italian)
Welsh (because I now live on the border of Cheshire and North Wales and if nothing else I want to know how to pronounce all the local roadsigns!)
Greek (modern and ancient - the former because my partner is part Greek and knows some of the language, and the latter because as I said before, I am weird like that!)
51. Basic Website Design
I used to go out with a website designer, ironically, and at the time could never fathom how he could sit in front of a computer doing all that "weird code stuff" all day! Now, of course, having discovered Squidoo and the world of online work, I wish I'd paid more attention.I have started using RapidWeaver for Mac and used it to build a website for my fiance's business, which is due to go live shortly. I also have numerous sites of my own in the development stage! I'm really happy with my first site, and when it goes live, I'll stick a big green tick right here!
Photo Credit: RealMac Software
52. Scuba diving
I don't think there can be many people who wouldn't love to witness a coral reef or swim with all those beautiful and amazing fish beneath the ocean waves.I know I would, and for that reason, scuba diving is another essential learning experience that I want to have in the future.
53. Kickboxing
I'd really like to learn kickboxing, but need to be a bit fitter first! It appeals to me as a respectable fighting sport and as a way to keep fit, too. 54. Kundalini Yoga
I have done a little bit of yoga in the past but would like to start doing it properly. Firstly I want the spiritual focus that comes with it, as I enjoy meditating too, but I also wish for better flexibility to keep my joints supple, especially now that I have a little one to run about after!Once I have mastered the basic asanas I would like to focus on Kundalini Yoga.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
55. Belly dancing
I am not a fan of exercise at all. The thought of going to the gym leaves me cold, and doing repetitive exercises at home is not my thing, either. I want to get fit doing something I enjoy, and so dancing is definitely the way to go for me!I had never really thought about bellydancing until my friend mentioned it, and now I really want to have a go. Having seen performances live, I can appreciate what a beautiful form of dance it is. I find it a very sacred form of dance, as it connects me to the goddess in my spirituality.
56. World history and geography
Unfortunately, I went to school in England at a time when being taught Geography did not mean learning where anywhere was in the world. We learned about seas, and rivers, and farming, and populations, but the countries of the world? No chance. Sadly not much has changed, because when I was a school librarian a few years ago, I continuously had to resist the urge to buy the gorgeous books on all the different countries, because they simply weren't used, and the subject never covered.The way both the world itself and humanity have come to be where they are, based on what has been before, has always fascinated me, and so learning more about world history and geography is an ongoing passion for me.
57. Crystal Healing
When I began exploring alternative therapies, crystal healing was one of the first I looked into. Years later, it is one of the few that I still believe in and have great fascination with.I work with crystals all the time and have recently begun working with crystal skulls, too. So while I am adept at crystal healing on a personal level for myself and family/friends, I would like to become certified as a crystal healer.
58. The folklore of nature
I confess I am a folklore junkie. I love books full of country lore and old wives' tales, superstitions and the old methods of divination.In particular, I'd love to learn and retain more about bird lore and augery (bird divination), the properties and folklore of flowers and trees, the symbolism of different animals, and the fascinating wealth of weather lore.
Local folklore is another key passion, as is the folklore surrounding fairies and other "supernatural" beings from times gone by,
Photo Credit: Image in the public domain
59. More about nature
I know an awful lot about nature already, being a great lover of being out in the countryside.What I want to learn more about, however, and retain, are things like identifying all the trees, insects, wildflowers and the more unusual birds and creatures when out and about. Wildlife tracking, wildcrafting and so on. I'd love to do this with my daughter as she grows, so that I can help her learn absolutely everything there is to know about nature!
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
Do you Want to Broaden your Horizons?
Are there things you'd like to learn or rekindle, too?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
“Gardening requires lots of water - most of it in the form of perspiration.”
- Lou Erickson
I Want To...
Have a Beautiful Garden!
60. Grow a sustaintable garden and be reasonably self-sufficient by growing fruit and veg
I love to cook and I love to garden, so growing food is something I have wanted to do for ages. I want to begin with something manageable for our family at the moment, balancing work, home and a toddler, but eventually I'd like to grow as much fruit and veg as possible!The house came with some established fruit trees and bushes, so we already have apples, cherries, gooseberries and raspberries growing each year. I'd like to add potatoes and our favourite salad and veg to the "food" area of the garden.
61. Grow a larger range of culinary and medicinal herbs
I would like to progress from growing the herbs I use most in cooking, such as chives, rosemary, thyme and so on, to growing a full range of herbs, both culinary and medicinal. Herbs and herbal lore are a big part of being a witch, and I can't wait to have even more herbs growing in my magical garden. 62. Create a witch's garden amidst Oak, Ash and Thorn
In addition to magical herbs, I adore flower and plant lore and would love to plant an enchanted garden full of plants with magical properties and flowers to attract faeries!The sacred trad of oak, ash and thorn is synonymous with witches. We already have the oak (there are three in our garden) and we are about to plant a protective circle of hawthorn around the perimeter of our front garden. After that, we just need the ash tree!
63. Establish a cottage garden, rockery and hawthorn hedge
* Plant a low hawthorn hedge around the perimeter. It is currently open plan and kids tend to wander in and out with their footballs. A ring of hawthorn around the house offers protection for a witch, plus it is the second most beneficial habitat for British wildlife after the oak tree, so between the three trees and our new bush, we should have the most wildlife in the street!* Build a rockery in the front border. I'd love to have a go at a traditional dry stone wall as well.
* Reestablish a cottage garden. This is my favourite type of garden and I just love English wildflowers, so these will make up the majority of the front garden design.
64. Create beautiiful cottage garden borders
Are you sensing a theme? I'd love a cottage garden out the back, too.Large meandering borders filled with wildly growing cottage plants, stony paths, and swathes of tall, sweet smelling lavender, interspersed with secret hiding places, benches, water features and statues. Bliss!
65. Plant a silver birch tree for Freya (and other trees, too)
My partner and I thought it would be a nice idea to plant a tree in the garden for our daughter that can grow with her over the years. Silver birch is particularly special to me because I planted one years ago in my parents' garden and watched it grow from sapling to full height, and I was really sad to leave it behind.We are already blessed with several trees in our garden but would like to add:
* Silver Birch
* Monkey Puzzle (we have just been gifted one so can plant it out soon!)
* Ash (to go with our oaks and thorn)
* Pink cherry blossom (we have a cherry tree but it is white blossom)
66. Create a haven for wildlife
I love wild gardens because they provide important habitat for wildlife. Oak and hawthorn support hundreds of different species - an oak can support 1000 different species, and we have three!I'd like to create little wild spots for nature, like a small nettle patch or log pile, along with houses and boxes for animals and birds. We have a resident bat and have a bat box to put up somewhere secluded for him.
I'd like to see more butterflies and birds visiting, along with hedgehogs, frogs, and much more. We have caught glimpses of urban foxes passing by our driveway so they are welcome to pop inside too!
67. Plant a miniature wildflower meadow
Many of Britain's native wildflowers are under threat due to modern farming wiping out the beautiful wildflower meadows we used to enjoy.More and more people are choosing to plant miniature wildflower meadows in their gardens, and I want to be one of them!
68. Grow a clematis for every season
Clematis is one of my favourite plants. I have a book which covers all the different plants by colour and season, and would like to plant different varieties in order to have some in flower all year round! Bucket List Predictions
What are your thoughts, hopes or fears about your own bucket list? Do you think you will eventually complete the whole list or only part of it? Share your predictions here!
MissMerFaery predicts:
That my bucket list will be a continuously changing thing, with new goals being added from time to time, and old ones being ticked off. Will it ever be completed? Depends how many things i still want to do when I'm 90!!
ohcaroline predicts:
Bucket lists are meant to be worked on, modified as needed, updated often and going for the goal of completion. The progress is the most important thing.
Heather426 predicts:
Lots of awards for you for your writing!
Intrepid Explorer
A large part of creating a bucket list is usually made up of travel. Most people have a list of places and countries they would most like to visit before they die.This section of my bucket list focuses on experience - places to travel, things to see, situations to experience, and things to discover. How many of these would make your bucket list?
Photo Credit: Copyright of author
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.”
- Marcel Proust
I Want To
Discover...
69. My ancestry and family tree
I think my family tree would be quite fascinating to trace back. I have roots in Italy, France, Holland, and possibly other places too.Connecting with our ancestors gives us a sense of history and belonging, and this is something I would like to do in a few years, when my daughter is old enough to understand and take an active part in the discovery too.
Photo Credit: Copyright of author. Blank family tree scrapbook page
70. My local area
Where I live now is not where I grew up. I have lived here since 2008 and still have lots to explore. Cheshire is a terrific county to live in - where we are situated, we are surrounded by countryside, right on the border of North Wales, close by to a Roman city, and near to two major cities - Liverpool and Manchester. We have the best of both worlds!Most of all I'd like to explore the local villages and the historical areas.
71. My local history
This follows on from the above. I love old historic local postcards, I find it fascinating to see what the places we live in used to look like. I love finding out about the people who used to live where we do and what went on.So local history is something that I would also like to explore for my new northern home!
Photo Credit: Image in the public domain
72. Ghosts
Ghosts and haunted houses fascinate me! I have stayed in haunted buildings and been on a ghost hunt, and have felt presences and sensations, but never actually "seen" anything.I'd like to do more hunts and stay in more haunted houses and castles, to get that ultimate experience.
73. Treasure
There have been numerous stories in England lately of people finding ancient coins and other treasures buried on farmland and so on.I'd love to go out and about with a metal detector and unearth a hoard of ancient artifacts!
74. Dinosaur bones and other fossils
Dinosaurs fascinate me, as to fossils. My love of collecting fossil extended from my love of collecting crystals and precious gemstones.I have been to the Isle of Wight, which is famed for its rich density of fossils. When I next go back I would love to go on one of the fossil hunts.
I have purchased various fossils and pieces of dinosaur bone over the years, but would love to actually find a dinosaur bone myself some day.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
75. The wildlife in my back garden
Once I have achieved the step of attracting wildlife to my garden I want to get out there and discover it! A twitcher at heart, I love to study the birds as they flit around the garden. We have foxes in the nearby wood and a resident bat, too. I'll happily be out there with binoculars and a camera, seeking out birds and beetles, frogs and mice. I'd love to set up a camera in a nest box or bat box, too. 76. The natural wonders of the British Isles
We often forget that which is on our back doorstep. There are many wonderful places in the world that I would like to see, but there are also many wonderful natural wonders in my own country to explore, too.
I want to go on some rambling country walks right out in the deep of the countryside, getting to know the trees, wildflowers and wildlife of my native home.
77. Mythology, folklore, spirituality and culture from around the world
This is an ongoing learning experience, but I love learning about different cultures and absorb mythology and folklore like a sponge. I'd like to read about and learn about the mythology from as many countries around the world as I can.It is fascinating to me to see both the differences and similarities in world mythologies. I'd love to write a book about it some day!
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”
- Saint Augustine
I Want To
Visit...
All of these places!
New Zealand is top of my list
I love the above quote by Saint Augustine. There is so much to learn and experience in the world, that it would seem a shame to never travel at least some of it. When I was younger, I was not so fussed about the idea of travelling, but now I am older and can't wait to get started!
I have not included descriptions and reasons in the list below, because I am making a separate Travel Bucket List. Firstly because Squidoo has a specific category for travel bucket lists, and secondly, because this lens is long enough already!
So, i have included them here as part of my main list, but to read more about what each place means to me, keep an eye out for my forthcoming TBL!
-
78. New Zealand
-
79. Australia
-
80. Scandinavia
-
81. Lapland at Christmas
-
82. Italy
-
83. Greece
-
84. Malta
-
85. Paris
-
86. Brittany
-
87. Russia
-
88. Machu Picchu
-
89. Argentina
-
90. Disney World
-
91. America
Wyoming, Chicago, San Francisco, LA, New York, Redwood forests -
92. Canada
Lake Louise, Ontario, Victoria, Toronto, Calgary, Nunavut -
93. Alaska
-
94. Antarctica
-
95. Bali
-
96. Hawaii
-
97. The Galapagos Islands
-
98. All of Ireland
-
99. Scotland
-
100. The Orkney Islands
-
101. Wales
-
102. The Isle of Mann
-
103. All of Cornwall
-
104. The Isles of Scilly
-
105. The Isle of Wight - again!
-
106. The faerie sites of the UK and Ireland
-
107. All the great parts of my home country, England, that I haven't seen yet!
“Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.”
- Andre Gide
I Want To
See...
These Incredible Sights!
The Northern Lights
Once again, these will form part of my Travel Bucket List, so am just listing them for now!
-
108. The Northern Lights
-
109. Puffins on the Farne Islands
-
110. Wolves in the wild
-
111. The Norwegian Fjords
-
112. Lake Louise
-
113. Native American settlements
-
114. The Pyramids
-
115. The Grand Canyon
-
116. Hummingbirds
-
117. Kingfishers, otters, badgers, woodpeckers and dolphins in the wild in the UK
-
118. The turtles of the Galapagos
-
119. Wild brumbies in Australia and wild mustangs in America
Are YOU an Intrepid Explorer?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
“Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.”
- Paul Coelho
I Want To
Experience...
120. Swimming with dolphins (in the wild)
Of all the goals on my Bucket List, this is my Ultimate Wish! If I had to choose just one thing I want to do before I die, it would be to swim with dolphins.I have been enchanted by these wise and beautiful creatures for years, and have read all the books on dolphin therapy by Dr. Horace Dobbs, about the impact swimming with dolphins has on people, including those with depression or children with learning difficulties. I would love to experience swimming with them in the ocean one day. I have no interest in swimming with them in any kind of marine park - I want to experience them in the wild, in their natural habitat, where they are free.
121. Husky Sledding
I have been in love with wolves, huskies and husky sledding ever since reading White Fang when I was about nine years old. I would love to have a go at driving a sled and seeing these beautiful animals at work in the snow.
122. Being with wolves
Speaking of wolves, did I mention how much I love them?? I have read many tales of people who work with wolves, and even own them. I would love to have the experience of getting up close and personal with some, if the opportunity ever arises. 123. Flying birds of prey
ACHIEVED: 10 April 2011
My birthday present for my 31st birthday was a voucher for a falconry experience. It was a "Meet the Birds" morning and we got to fly and handle five different birds of prey - a buzzard, a barn owl, a kestrel, a Harris hawk, and best of all, a Steppe eagle! Here I am with Zara the amazing eagle on my arm.The experience was incredible - it is a real thrill to handle the birds with them looking you right in the eye, and there is nothing quite like a huge eagle with a six foot wing span hurtling towards you and landing on your arm, I can tell you! I enjoyed it so much, that I want to do another experience very soon, and it has strengthened my desire to learn proper falconry.
124. Hunting with falcons on horseback
Having flown birds of prey, I would like to do more experiences and learn falconry properly. Once I have achieved this, and also got back into horseriding, I would love to go hunting with birds on horseback, to truly experience falconry as it would have been practiced centuries ago.There are some falconry centres that offer this experience, including one in Scotland, so this is definitely something I want to do when I have the necessary ability and skill.
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
125. Gold panning
I think my fascination with gold panning also stems from White Fang, having loved and devoured both the book and film when I was a child. I love reading about the Gold Rush and, as with many of the things on my Bucket List, this is another goal that I feel would connect me with history and the people of the past.Plus it would be amazingly cool to take home a little bit of gold that I found myself!
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
126. Horse riding along a beach
I cannot think of a more wild and beautiful setting to ride. I imagine it would be a wonderful feeling of freedom to charge along the sand, feeling the spray as you pass by the sea.
127. Riding bareback
I'm very much an "at one with nature" kind of girl, and I love the natural approach to training and connecting with horses, such as those techniques used by the Horse Whisperer.I'd love to experience bareback riding. This signifies a wonderful connection between horse and rider to me.
128. Riding an Arabian horse
I love all horses, but growing up I absolutely adored the Jinny series of horse novels by Patricia Leitch. It was about a girl named Jinny and her Arabian horse Shantih.Ever since reading about their adventures and unbreakable bond, I have wanted to gallop across the hills on an Arab horse just like Jinny.
Riding a Black Beauty lookalike in much the same manner appeals to me too!
129. A gypsy caravan holiday
Ever since I discovered that you could hire a horse and gypsy caravan for a week's holiday in Ireland, I have longed to do it!The idea of trundling around the beautiful Irish countryside in one of those gorgeous Romany caravans, pulled by a beautiful Gypsy Vanner, is pure heaven to me.
It will have to be a holiday with one of my girlfriends though, because the idea of such a holiday does not appeal to my other half at all!
130. Whale watching
As well as loving dolphins, I love all marine life, and would love to take a boat ride and go whale watching. My half brother was lucky enough to do this in Australia and he got some wonderful shots.Seeing a whale leaping out of the ocean on television is spectacular enough. I can only imagine what it must be like to witness it in real life!
131. Meeting the inspiring Renee O'Connor
ACHIEVED 21 May 2011
On 21st and 22nd May 2011, Renee held an Awareness seminar in London, which I attended. It was an incredibly inspiring weekend and an honour to not only meet, but also work with, such a genuinely warm and open woman. The seminar was based on the work of Mary Rocamora and you can find out more about the principles of Awareness at The Rocamora School.
Photo Credit: Copyright of Author.
Find out more about Renee in this SquidWho lens!
132. Sarah McLachlan live in concert
Ever since I discovered her hauntingly beautiful music through the soundtrack to Due South, I have counted Sarah as my all-time favourite music artist.I have all her albums and adore her songs and lyrics. I find her very inspirational to write to. I would love to see her live in concert, but she is Canadian and doesn't come to England very often. The last gig I know of her performing over here was a very intimate gig in London,
So it might be a case of having to try and see her when I visit Canada, but either way, I hope I get to see her one day!
Here is Sarah singing my two most favourite songs of hers at her Mirrorball concert - Building a Mystery and Angel.
curated content from YouTube
133. Elbow live in concert
Elbow are an incredible band! If you've not heard of them, it's probably because they are hugely underrated, including in their home country of England, but thankfully they are becoming more widely known with their recent albums.Their music is incredible and I would just love to see them live. If they are only half as good as the incredible performance they did with the BBC orchestra (see below), I'll be one happy fan!
Here are Elbow singing my favourite song of theirs, One Day Like This, in their incredible live performance with the BBC Concert Orchestra. I have also included my other favourite Elbow song, the lesser known Fugitive Motel.
curated content from YouTube
And These Acts Live in Concert Too!
Sarah McLachlan and Elbow are my absolute must-see's, but I would also love to see these artists live:
.jpg)
-
134. David Gray
-
135. Michael Buble
-
136. Adele
-
137. The Fray
138. Centre Court at Wimbledon
I'm not that into sports, but I do love a bit of tennis, and it's a yearly ritual in my house to sit and watch two weeks of Centre Court action at Wimbledon! Having watched it since I was a child, I'd love to get Centre Court tickets and see it live one year.
139. The Cirque du Soleil
The first time I ever saw the Cirque du Soleil on television, I remember being utterly blown away. I had never seen anything like it - the performance was both beautiful and breathtaking.I have longed to see a performance live ever since, and look forward to one day getting tickets to see them in London.
If you've never seen them before, check out the incredible performance of Kooza - the Wheel of Death - below!
140. The Wainwright Walks of the Lake District
_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1540715.jpg)
I first visited the Lake District as a teenager, as part of my school geography field trip. The lakes and mountains are quite spectacular and I have wanted to return and further explore the area ever since.
Arthur Wainwright knew the Lakes like no other, and his exhaustive seven volume guide to the walks of the mountains and cairns is the undisputed ultimate reference to the area. I'd love to try following some of his walks next time I visit.
141. Spending a night in the woods!
Whether it be ghostly tales in the woods, creepy ancient fairytales or a love for Celtic folklore and faeries in the night, there are many reasons I would love to spend a night in the woods!Maybe not alone... I'd prefer a brave friend to try it with me... so watch this space for an account of a night under the treetops and the stars!
142. The haunted houses of England
As I mentioned in a previous goal, I love all things ghostly, so I would like to explore more of the haunted buildings around Britain.From haunted houses to spooky old castles, when I've been to at least ten, I'll put a tick here!
143. The castles of the UK and Ireland
I love castles. It's that love of medieval history again!I grew up near Colchester, the oldest recorded town in Britain, and visited its castle many times. I have been to several castles over the years, but there are lots more to explore.
I especially want to visit some of the more fairytale ones that you find in Ireland and Wales.
When I have visited at least ten in England, and five each in Wales. Scotland and Ireland, I'll put a tick here.
144. A Renaissance Fayre
This is something that is hugely popular in America, but for some reason, we don't really have any here in England. We have the odd medieval fayre or fairy festival, but nothing quite like the renaissance fayres that the US enjoy.I'd love to find one to attend in the UK, or if not, then visiting one when I travel to the USA is a must!
145. A Medieval Fayre with jousting and banquet
I'd love to be transported back in time at one of the medieval festivals we have here in England, complete with extravagant banquet and exciting jousting tournament!I'm all for dressing up in medieval clothes, too, and immersing myself wholeheartedly in the experience!
146. Taking part in a battle re-enactment
Following on from the above, I'd love to watch a battle re-enactment, but even more so, take part in one, too!I don't want to play the part of an innocent bystander, either. I want to get in there with my sword and make like a warrior queen!
147. One of the UK faerie festivals and balls
I love faeries, and absolutely HAVE to attend one of the UK's fairy festivals really soon! The 3 Wishes Fairy Fest is held each year in Cornwall, so I would love to attend that one, and the Fairy Fayre and Ball in Glastonbury as well.In all honesty, more than anything, I can't wait to get all dressed up as a Celtic faerie!
148. Il Palio Siena
This is a horse race held twice a year in Siena, Italy.Aside from the attraction of the horses, I love how the teams all dress up in incredible medieval style clothing and how a wonderful festival is made of the event. Definitely something I would love to experience firsthand!
149. A BTCV holiday
I have volunteered with the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers before, but have never been on one of their conservation holidays. These are held both in the UK and abroad, and can range from building bridges and drystone walls, to monitoring colonies of wildlife or creating new habitats.I would love to go on at least one in my lifetime and help conserve the environment
150. Staying in an ice hotel
I just LOVE the concept of the Ice Hotel in Sweden, and the subsequent ice hotels that have sprung up in various other areas.I don't do all that well in heat and much prefer the idea of a cold holiday! Despite the fact that staying there means positively freezing temperatures, I'd love to experience a night there!
Who's Making a Bucket List?
Bucket List Blogs on Google
- Bucket lists: America's most idiotic new pastime
- Not having a bucket list in this day and age is like not having a navel. It's verging on ungodly. In the half decade since the eponymous Rob Reiner movie hit the screen, the bucket list concept has slipped into common parlance and become the ?read any ...
- Commentary: Kicking around a sports bucket list
- I am ready to root, root, root for I'll Have Another to win the Triple Crown. I'm not naïve. Trainer Doug O'Neil has been nailed 15 times for shady medicating and drug practices. This could well be the Barry Bonds of horses and, much like every John ...
- Vermont's 'Death Race' a test of mental, physical strength
- By Kevin Paul Dupont Like snowflakes, everyone's bucket list is of a different shape and size. Bucket lists are a late kick at living, framed by the fact that death is around the corner, be it a protracted final chapter played out along a meandering ...
- Hurdler Richardson ticking items off list of life's pursuits on his quest to ...
- Also on the 26-year-old's lengthy bucket list: write his own novel, become a millionaire by 35 and stand on an Olympic podium, maybe even this summer. And he won't have to wait for the London Games to see just how realistic this last item just may be.
Nourishing the Soul
The final part of my Bucket List covers those things which are nourishing to my soul. The goals of meaning, that will enrich me as a person and take me further on my personal journey in life.As well as spiritual and charitable goals, I have also included a few last goals that are purely for fun, because after all, fun and laughter are a very important part of nourishing the soul, are they not?
Photo Credit: JupiterImages Corporation
- 151. Incorporate my spirituality into every day life more easily
- 152. Learn more of the ways of the Druid and Shaman
- 153. Become more confident in my psychic and healing abilities
- 154. Fundraise and raise awareness for my favourite charities
- 155. Volunteer with the BTCV & RSPB
- 156. Help feed the homeless on Christmas Day
- 157. Help IDW bring dolphin therapy to children in the UK
- 158. Participate in a peaceful protest (and be an active activist!)
“I believe in God, only I spell it Nature.”
- Frank Lloyd Wright
I Want To...
Enrich my Spirituality
151. Incorporate my spirituality into every day life more easily
Being a busy work at home mum means there is often little time for anything other than taking care of my daughter, cooking, cleaning, and doing what work I can into the early hours of the morning!I would like to integrate my spirituality into my daily life more, through meditation, rituals, connecting with the Divine and simply having that little bit of time to sit and contemplate.
152. Learn more of the ways of the Druid and Shaman
I love nature and connecting with it, and the ways of the druid and shaman both call to me because of their deep reverence for nature and living life in harmony with it.Druidry has a beautiful wildness about it, and is native to my homeland as well as being part of Celtic history, which is my favourite period. Shamanism is also something I want to learn more from, as I already draw from some of its wisdom with totem animals and smudging,The ways and cultures of native peoples such as Native Americans are incredibly wise and have much important knowledge to share.
153. Become more confident in my psychic and healing abilities
I opened up to my psychic ability about 10 years ago and have also studied in energy healing. I have trained in angel reading and use oracle cards.I don't use these abilities often enough, particularly with other people, and would like to use them more, in order to gain confidence in what I can do.
.
Is it Important to Nourish Your Soul?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
- Mother Teresa
I Want To...
Do More for Charity
154. Fundraise and raise awareness for my favourite charities
I have supported several charities with monthly donations for many years now, but I would like to do more in terms of raising funds and awareness.I am supportive of many charities but the main ones I focus on are Friends of the Earth, International Dolphin Watch/Operation Sunshine, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, The Woodland Trust, the RSPB and WWF.
155. Volunteer with the BTCV & RSPB
I mentioned previously that I would like to go on a BTCV holiday. I used to volunteer with them and now that I have moved to a different area, I would like to reconnect and start offering my time again for local conservation projects.
I would also like to get involved with the local division of the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds). They offer various outings and field trips to see various species of bird, which I would like to get involved in, but I would also like to help them on a voluntary basis in aiding bird conservation in Cheshire.
156. Help feed the homeless on Christmas Day
I have always thought that people who give up their Christmas Day (or their time in general) to help the homeless are wonderful. At the moment Christmas is a special time as we now have a young daughter, but in a few years time when she is older, I would like to give up a few hours to go and help in the local soup kitchen and give back to the community.I think it is a good thing to teach my daughter about at the same time. I always remember Princess Diana taking her sons to see the homeless, and thinking how important that was.
157. Help IDW bring dolphin therapy to children in the UK
When I was in my twenties I began reading books by Dr Horace Dobbs, who works closely with dolphins and has researched extensively into dolphin therapy.The dream of the IDW (International Dolphin Watch) is to bring dolphin therapy to children everywhere. Obviously, very few are able to actually get the opportunity to swim with dolphins, so IDW and Operation Sunshine have been working to develop an interactive, sensory experience that uses dolphin sounds, imagery, and other experiences, to facilitate healing in other ways.
I would love to do more to help them achieve their goals. You can read more about their work at the International Dolphin Watch website and on the site of the accompanying charity, Operation Sunshine.
158. Participate in a peaceful protest (and be an active activist!)
Through Friends of the Earth I often campaign from home on conservation and environmental issues. But I would love to get more involved and take part in peaceful protests, taking a more proactive role in making a stand against big business and government when they trample all over nature and our beautiful earth, for the sake of profit.You may well see a photo of me chained to a tree in protest one day in the future!
159. Visit Africa
Every two years in the UK, we sit down to watch the bi-annual charity event Comic Relief. Every time it moves me to tears, showing coverage of needy children and families both in our own country and others, but mainly in Africa.Of course, we donate generously as much as we can. But I always get a great need to go out there one day and physically help in some way, whether that be through taking supplies, teaching, or helping with some kind of building project. I hope that one day I get that opportunity to help.
160. Make a difference
I'd like to make a difference in the world somehow. As a writer, I'd like to touch people through my stories. As a former librarian, I'd like to continue supporting children's literacy and libraries themselves. As a human being, I'd like to help in any way possible to make the world a better place.I don't want to just live my life in a bubble. Whether I make my mark in an artistic way, or through teaching, I would like to make my contribution, however small, and make it count.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons CHANGE
Which is worth the most on your Bucket List?
There are all kinds of things that can go on a Bucket List, from small, personal things to big, bold dreams. All are important in their own way, but which would be your favourite kind if you had to choose?
Loading poll. Please Wait...
“We are driven by five genetic needs: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun.”
- William Glasser
And Finally...
Just for Fun!
Get a famous tweet
ACHIEVED: April 2011
I'm not much of a celebrity person, but there are some actors and other famous people that I like and admire.Getting an @ reply from a famous person on Twitter is just one of those utterly pointless but tremendously fun things in life.
Since sticking this bonus aim on my bucket list, I've had the great pleasure of being tweeted twice by the wonderful and thoroughly engaging John Cusack, on the wildly varying subjects of bees and politics.
Don't ask!
Did you get any Ideas for Your Bucket List?
Hope you enjoyed mine!
Thank you so much for reading my Bucket List! Did you enjoy it? Do you have a bucket list? Has this list given you any ideas? Please share your thoughts and feedback here!
-
-
Ramkitten
Aug 12, 2011 @ 4:00 pm | delete
- I love looking over other people's bucket lists. They're inspiring and often give me ideas for my own. And look at all the big green checkmarks you've already got! Way to go and thank you for sharing. *Blessed by an angel on the Back to School Bus Tour*
-
-
-
JublyJem
Aug 10, 2011 @ 4:43 am | delete
- a great great list. we have a few similar ones. I want to wish you ever luck in achieving everything on it!
-
-
-
Shayleah
May 27, 2011 @ 3:18 pm | delete
- I am not suprised at how many similar goals we have. ;) I too am so excited and passionate about life and achieving my dreams! I know you will check off everything on your list some day, yes, even 198 and 199! :D
-
-
-
vallain May 18, 2011 @ 7:26 pm | delete
- Wow, you are going to be super-busy doing all these things. I read recently that 1/3 of the formula for living longer is to have a passion for something. You have no problem with that.
-
-
-
SLHamilton
Jul 26, 2011 @ 8:16 pm | delete
- I'm betting you will achieve every one of them! You're intelligent and creative.. and you seem like someone who is very motivated as well. You actually remind me of me. So many things in your head you don't know where to begin.. and when you do begin you often start on another project before finishing the ones you have already started. Good Luck on your list. I'll be checking back to see more green check marks :-)
-
-
-
Shayleah
May 27, 2011 @ 2:44 pm | delete
- I hope you achieve them all and more, sister!
-
-
-
- I'm having fun reading all your goals. I really, really need to think this through for myself.
-
About the Author of "My Bucket List"
More from MissMerFaery on Squidoo
MissMerFaery is a published author, magazine columnist and online writer with over 160 pages here on Squidoo.
She has made the Squidoo Top Five, received 21 Purple Star awards, and won Lens of the Day four times, for Cooking with Herbs and Spices, Fall Soup for the Kitchen Witch, 101 Best Baked Potato Toppings, and Argo, Trusty Warrior Steed.
In the wonderful world of Squidoo, MissMerFaery is a Giant Squid 100, RocketMom, and SquidAngel. She writes about everything from tasty recipes, craft tutorials, kids activities and UK travel guides, to topics such as spirituality, parenting, environmental issues, and writing. For easy browsing of all her lenses by category, check out her Lensography!
Oh, and if YOU love to write, why not Join Squidoo too?
She has made the Squidoo Top Five, received 21 Purple Star awards, and won Lens of the Day four times, for Cooking with Herbs and Spices, Fall Soup for the Kitchen Witch, 101 Best Baked Potato Toppings, and Argo, Trusty Warrior Steed.
In the wonderful world of Squidoo, MissMerFaery is a Giant Squid 100, RocketMom, and SquidAngel. She writes about everything from tasty recipes, craft tutorials, kids activities and UK travel guides, to topics such as spirituality, parenting, environmental issues, and writing. For easy browsing of all her lenses by category, check out her Lensography!
Oh, and if YOU love to write, why not Join Squidoo too?
Like Me on Facebook!
Keep up to date with all my latest lenses and Squidoo activity!
Facebook Fan box widget may not always appear in the Workshop. Please preview or publish your lens to see the widget.
by MissMerFaery
Hi there! I'm a work at home mum, writer and artist, and here I share my personal goals and aspirations in My Bucket List. I hope it inspires you to make... more »
- 170 featured lenses
- Winner of 37 trophies!
- Top lens » 101 Best Baked Potato Toppings and Recipes
Feeling creative?
Create a Lens!
Explore related pages
- MissMerFaery's Lensography MissMerFaery's Lensography
- Who is MissMerFaery? Who is MissMerFaery?
- Writing for a Living - My Journey as a Writer Writing for a Living - My Journey as a Writer
- My Bucket List | The Bucket List |Bucket List Ideas My Bucket List | The Bucket List |Bucket List Ideas
- 108 Things I Got to Do On My Year Off or Things To Do Before You Die 108 Things I Got to Do On My Year Off or Things To Do Before You Die
- Why Coming Up With Bucket List Ideas May Not Be The Way To Go Why Coming Up With Bucket List Ideas May Not Be The Way To Go
