The List of 49

In 2022 I will hit the big 5-0 birthday. Will I be successful at 49 and blah at 50? It could happen or it could be my perception. I’m pretty sure I’ve written about this coming of age in many ways over the past few years. The now is finally here. I’m in the 60-day approach window. A panic time of sorts.

Did I accomplish enough by the time I’m 50? Did I cram too much in as I near 50?  Will the lingering pandemic ruin my big 50 bash? So many questions in my mind. There is obviously no guidebook for hitting 50 or maybe there is and I didn’t read it! In lieu of a fancy book, I’m going for the condensed blog version. Snippets of my fabulous life. The list of 49 idea is in motion or technically has been in motion for years.

As some of you readers may know, each year I write a New Year’s list of sorts. It’s normally in January and dedicated to that month in time. I love re-reading these lists (just 31 days) in upcoming years. This year is special to me thus I opted for a list twist.
This year the list will expand to a recap with a few highlights from the vault to round out my 49 list. It’s dedicated to some things I celebrate or remember over those 49 years or maybe it’s just random facts for those who don’t know me well. The list may seem odd to some but intriguing to others. Without further ado, below you will find my list of 49. In no particular order and each has a longer story but of course you just get the highlights.

1. I was born of course and had a wonderful childhood. I lived in one family home with married parents and siblings. This in itself can be an oddity based on current day.
2. I went to public school.
3. I was a tomboy.
4. I ziplined.
5. I traveled internationally. More than once.
6. I’ve traveled to many states but I haven’t been to Washington state, Hawaii, Oregon, North or South Dakota, Michigan, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
7. I’ve built businesses from scratch.
8. I’ve sold or dismantled businesses.
9. I’ve operated a franchise/multi-units.
10. I’ve been snow skiing and water skiing.
11. I’ve wakeboarded, knee-boarded and wake surfed. I prefer water sports.
12. I’ve ridden a horse in many states and abroad.
13. I bought a tiny home.
14. I went snowmobiling and it was fun.
15. I built a glamping site.
16. I have many great friends and love meeting new people.
17. I’ve driven a mini van but I’m more of an SUV girl.
18. I like vintage cars, muscle cars and basically any ride on wheels with flair.
19. I’ve ridden on a motorcycle but can’t drive one.
20. I like and use recreational vehicles such as a jet ski, four wheeler, boat, camper, and dirt bike.
21. I like soft blankets.
22. I’m an author.
23. I’ve played whirly ball, kickball, wiffle ball, and tennis which also has a ball.
24. I played hockey and like to skate in boy’s skates. The black hockey-style skates.
25. I enjoy CrossFit.
26. I have a shoe collection, car fetish, and I am a hair fanatic.
27. I’m a loyal Starbucks customer.
28. I like pizza. I like it a lot. Not sauce so much.
29. I have tattoos and will get more.
30. I grew up in the north but love living in the south.
31. I’m looking forward to 2022 and all the year has to offer.
32. I think gas is expensive.
33. I have learned a lot about who I am and keep toxic people at bay. This is a requirement for life balance.
34. I like outdoor activities.
35. I like temperatures in the 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit over cold.
36. I am looking to do 50 new things in 2022. Never done by me that is.
37. I’ve lived in four states.
38. I’ve lived through a pandemic. Something I never planned for and somehow it keeps resurfacing!
39. Betty White just died just shy of 100. A true golden girl. Gonna miss that icon.
40. I’ve held true to my mantra of looking for sunshine in the shittiest of situations.
41. I played Topgolf and really suck at it.
42. I’m due for some fresh ink to celebrate 50.
43. I’ve hit the height as a woman-owned business that many dream of but never achieve. 
44. I bought a farm and grow things which was never on my bucket list per se.
45. I focus on learning each day, week, month without question.
46. I like freshly baked homemade cookies.
47. I can’t cure stupid no matter how much I try and I may give up after trying for so long.
48. I don’t like wearing masks. Thanks Covid for an experience I never wished for.
49. I like blue raspberry slush puppies.

Well there you have my random list of 49. A new list about me to help ring in my upcoming birthday. I’m sure some will giggle when they read this but it’s a true recollection of me at random points in my years lived. Not all-encompassing but tidbits for those who want to get to know me. My life on the web, unveiled. Wink to the one who inspired my thoughts herein.