40 4 40 #40 - FINALLY!!

As you might recall, over a year ago, I began a journey to try forty new things before my 40th birthday. The culmination was to be skydiving ON my 40th birthday. I had this wild idea on my 30th birthday, while parasailing. To make a long story short, I did not get to jump on my actual 40th birthday. But, Dad had the idea that I could do it in CA - at a location that he picked out :)

So I got to CA and we talked about it and I looked into it and just never seemed to actually schedule it. I started to run out of time! Since last week was so busy (I really should blog about it!), and this is my last week, this was the time! I made an appointment at Skydive Perris which has an excellent reputation, and is the place where Dad's former student jumps all the time.

Just like when it was planned in Texas, I was not worried about the risks and all that. However, this place made me watch a video and sign waivers that sure could make you worry about all the risks!! But when we got there, Dad and I decided this place knew what they were doing! There were parachuters everywhere - landing, packing chutes, wandering around, etc. Everyone was very nice and encouraging.

The whole process was quite easy, since I'd already watched the video and signed the mega waiver on line. Dad and I waited and watched lots of people land, until it was my turn to get suited up. Each plane took about 20 jumpers - most of them just jumping for fun - students and such. We saw probably half a dozen planes go up while we waited - for only an hour or so!! I got called and we went to the garage to meet Emmanuel and put my suit on. Dad got to be there for all of it which was really cool. Here are some before pics.

My favorite support crew :)

Suited Up

Harnessing

There was one other tandem person on my flight. His name is Chris and he was celebrating having finished his USC MBA! He was a little nervous but he did just fine :) The rest of the pics will tell the rest of the story...

Saying "see you in a few" to Dad.

Waving Hello to Josh, the videographer.

Emmanuel and I ready to board the plane! First on, last off.

On the plane, ready to GO!

The screaming was involuntary!! It was an excited, holy heck, kind of scream!

Free falling - REALLY fast!!

The chute opened!! YAY!!

I'd be attached to the yellow dot! Dad took this from the ground.

Coming in to the landing zone.

Almost down!

We made it!!

Wow!! Actually the quote of the day was "OH. MY. GOODNESS"!!

#40 done!! This is my favorite on the ground shot!

I jumped out of an airplane today! Not many people can say that! I enjoyed the experience and I'm glad I finally did it. I don't need to do it again though. I was never scared. It was definitely a rush of excitement when the wind slapped you in the face at 120 mph! And getting to see the world from that perspective was way awesome. I asked my videographer to take more video of what I was seeing than of my face. I'm really glad he listened. The video is pretty darn cool. There's me, but there's also the scenery which I'm glad I get to relive. You can too! Anytime you want to watch it, I'd be happy to share :) Oh, actually, it's supposed to go on Youtube... I'll keep you posted on that. 

The moral of this year long journey is this: KEEP TRYING NEW THINGS! You never know what you'll get out of it. 

40 4 40 Reflections from a 40 year old

I spent over eight months doing new things, counting them, and writing about them. It actually seems like an odd endeavor in hindsight. However, it was far from odd, or easy, or simple.

When asked throughout the journey what I'd done, or what was my favorite, or something, I never had the same answer twice. Even now, if asked, I don't think I could tell you all 40 and certainly not in order! But that doesn't mean any of them weren't worth doing.

I don't think any one really stands out as the coolest or best or most interesting/exciting. I did things that other people did when they were 5 or 16. I did things that people in Texas have been doing their whole lives. I did things that were basically "normal" to me and things that were not. Some things fell into place, others I sought out. There were a few things that I'd always wanted to do and this was my excuse.

Overall, the word that keeps coming to mind is "monumental". It's not like this challenge changed my life drastically. But it did make me see how much we skip or avoid because we can. I'm a lazy girl and these activities made me get off the couch. One friend even commented that they were making me get out mid-week! Yup. I guess you could say they brought me out of my comfort zone and made me more well-balanced. Or something like that.

One of the funnest parts of this journey has been the support from family and friends. I got lots of suggestions on new things to try and many offers to try with me. I tried to incorporate as many friends as possible and ended up getting to know several friends even better along the way!

As part of the "party favor" at my big birthday bash, I challenged my guests to try something new and even gave them 5 of my new things to get them started. One has already invited me to join in on HER new thing :) I hope that everyone will be inspired to try new things and see what's out there in the world!

Would I do it again? YES!!! Will I do 50 new things in the next decade? Probably. I have done several new things already since #40. I keep having to remind myself that I will do new things, I just don't have to count them :)

For those who haven't been reading or who have also forgotten what's on the list, this is the list I kept...

40 4 40 New Things

1. Talk on the Ham radio
2. Paddle Board
3. Build a fence
4. Moonshine
5. Get a celebrity tweet response
6. Sushi
7. Blood moon
8. HS ftbl coach
9. Read Bones book
10. Paint a pumpkin
11. 2000 piece puzzle
12. Make Crème Brule
13. Pay off a student loan
14. Walk a 5k
15. Serve a holiday meal to less fortunate
16. Hang Christmas Lights
17. Race Communications in Texas
18. Amy Grant concert
19. San Antonio
20. glamorshots
21. Try Echolink
22. Watch Bambi
23. Read (& watch) Romeo & Juliet
24. Winstar
25. Farmer’s Branch Rose Garden walk (Cleburne State Park)
26. minor league hockey (on the glass)
27. Kimbell Art Museum
28. Hamfest
29. Spiral Diner
30. Cooking class
31. police ride along
32. Rodeo
33. Shoot a gun
34. Mammogram
35. SNL
36. Buy (& use) a Groupon
37. Lose 30 pounds
38. Spray tan
39. Piano Bar
40. Skydive/Tiara

40 4 40 #40 The One that Wasn't

This is the LAST in a series of posts chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turned 40. Wow. #40. Didn't think I'd get here. Thanks for following along!

On my 30th birthday, while parasailing, I decided that on my 40th birthday, I would skydive! This entire 40 new thing challenge was leading up to #40 which was to be skydiving. As we got closer and weather was bad, I was faithful that the big day would bring beautiful weather. And it did!! However, the 2 weeks of precipitation left the runway a muddy, wet mess. I probably COULD have jumped late afternoon or Sunday but I want to enjoy it and not have to run off to a party or whatever so I chose to not skydive ON my 40th birthday. Instead I am now working on plans to jump when I am in CA this summer. It WILL happen!!

But since I needed a 40th thing on Saturday, I decided to call #40 "Princess for a Day"! I had already bought myself a pretty tiara to wear at the party that night but I put it on and wore it most of the day :) Out and about, to school (to show Christy around), to Starbucks, etc. WHY NOT?!??!?!

In addition, I threw myself a birthday bash!! There were about 35 people who came out to my church fellowship hall to help me celebrate. They even brought presents!! They played games, worked on puzzles, made bookmarks, took selfies and ate snacks and CAKE :) They all said they had fun. I have heard from folks who didn't make it and they said they heard it was fun, so I guess it was good!!

Dad and big brother Dave trying out the "Selfie Station"

The cake!

The cake after Leslie worked her wonders :)

The birthday princesses :) Mary turned 82!! 

My entourage :)

Cutting the cake :) It was beautiful vegan yumminess!!

The group who helped me celebrate! Love every one of them!!

40 4 40 #39 Pete's Piano Bar

This is the latest entry in a series chronicling my attempt to try 40 new things before I turn(ed) 40. I'm slow in writing it up because I was busy turning 40!! 

For several years, I tried to go to Pete's Piano Bar in downtown Fort Worth to celebrate my birthday. I don't even remember where I heard about it or why I wanted to go! Nor do I recall any of the reasons why it didn't happen! I decided it'd be fun to do the night before my birthday since I'd have people in from out of town and it'd give folks a chance to celebrate if they weren't able to join the party on the big day. 

There were 13 of us there Friday night. There were also parties of just marrieds and about to be marrieds and a 30th birthday party. There were several other birthdays too in the crowd but those seemed to not have the fancy reservation tables or something. 

The first two piano players got us all singing and even a little dancing. After an hour, they were relieved by two more players. They were ALL quite talented. It was very impressive that they knew every song without ever looking at a sheet of music, and the music never stopped. One or both was constantly playing a ditty of some sort. 

Loni (my sister-in-law) and Christy (my college roommate) knew practically every song while I knew some parts of many of them but could only sing along to all of a few. I faked it though :) At one point I went on stage as a birthday girl. During another song, we were to hit hips with a stranger so I picked the piano player - I figured he was safer than an actual drunk stranger! 

I would definitely go back. There are some friends who weren't able to go but want to go so maybe even soon!! The whole place was smoke free so that was extra nice!! 

Christy and I ready to go!

The family

Christy and I having fun!

The whole gang, except Becky cuz she was late

My brother bought me a shot. I do believe that was a first!!

He tried to buy me a second. Christy became my surrogate drinker :) She also received one from the random dude who sat behind us. I SUCK at selfies!!! (That's Loni and Christy enjoying their shots with me in the middle holding the phone)

40 4 40 #38 spray tan

This is the latest in a series of posts chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40 day after tomorrow!!!!  You can read all the entries using the label 40 4 40.

I have laid out in the sun. I have lain (?) in a tanning bed. All when I was much younger. Now I get my color by accident when I am hiking or mowing or such. I no longer really care that I am pasty white. I guess this is a perk of getting older - not caring about this sort of thing!

But the concept of a spray tan has intrigued me since Ross did his so very wrongly on Friends. So I thought this would be a good time to try it - as a new thing. I almost did it over Christmas break in case I ended up looking like Ross. However, it's not exactly cheap so I decided to wait until my big day so I could show it off.

So this afternoon I had the nice young lady at the tan store airbrush a tan on me. I got a deal on it and this eliminated the need to count and turn which messed up Ross.

Eight hours later I don't know that I'm any darker but its super cold and I'm unwilling to undress except my face and hands!  I did tell her not dark - just a healthy glow :)

I guess I'll see tomorrow!!!

Sorry no before and after pics. Blame Mother Nature!!!

40 4 40 #37 Lose 30 Pounds

This is the latest in a series of entries chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in FOUR days!! You can read all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

Warning: This one is kinda personal.

The title is kind of a misnomer. I have not actually lost 30 pounds but that was my goal before my birthday. So... yeah.

I am not fat, have never been fat. I have weighed more than I should though! When I was dealing with all my thyroid stuff, my weight fluctuated quite a bit. There was a point in 2001 when I was attempting to learn to play hockey and lost some weight from all the practicing. However, that was ALSO during the thyroid madness so who knows what caused it. But people actually said I was TOO skinny. I never thought that, of course.

Anyway, once my thyroid came out, I was supposed to lose all the weight I'd gained leading up to that point. Yeah, that never happened. But I also never tried. I expected the new magic thyroid pill to do it for me :) Then I moved halfway across the country. Then I changed careers. Then I was unemployed for two years. Then I got a new job. Then George died. And I ate! And ate! Apparently too much, by the way my clothes fit and the need to frequent Goodwill.

I can't remember what made me look up the government's definition of "overweight" last Spring. But I did. And I was. By more than I thought actually. The "ideal weight" is 140 according to a bunch of internet study type things, but the BMI average is about 150. Now, when I looked all this up, I no longer owned a scale but I know that the last time I weighed myself, I was about 177-8. So I figure when I started trying to figure all this out I was basically right at 180. That's what I'm calculating my loss from.

I didn't seriously start trying to do anything major until I got home from California and school started in August. Though I was already just trying to make smarter choices. Sadly, I have horrible willpower when I'm hungry. Get me hungry and tired enough and I can happily devour an entire large pizza :) So I found a calorie tracker app online and started keeping track. I have never been overly strict and have gone weeks without inputting what I'm eating. But it helped me figure out to eat this instead of that and stuff like that. Now I know why Atkins and South Beach work, eliminating carbs - SO MANY CALORIES!!

I also have gone back to a more or less vegan-ish food style. I am not strict, but I try to eat vegan when I can. Except for fish. The reason I had trouble being vegan originally is I was running out of stuff to eat that I liked eating!! So fish. And it helps when eating out too.

Slugs and I were both doing well with our weight loss and exercise regimen until he hurt his knee in November. My weight sat at 160 for about 3 months!! We just weren't walking as far and it seems to be the most advantageous exercise for me to burn calories. And it's fun and gets us outside. Except when it turned cold. I hate cold. So ours walks got shorter. And I was stuck at 160.

Oddly, I told someone about a month ago about this goal and I magically started losing again. It also warmed up a little though. The next five pounds came off pretty easy. And here I sit, the week of my birthday, stressed, busy, icy, and I have decided that 25 pounds lost is a HUGE accomplishment, and so I'm calling it a new thing done.

BUT I AM going to keep going. Especially once it warms up and Slugger's knee continues to heal. I figure I'll be right where I want to be (which, btw, is really just ALL of my clothes fitting!!) just in time for summer - shorts and tank tops :)

40 4 40 #36 SNL

This is the latest in a series of blogs chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in SEVEN DAYS!! You can read all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

This was not my planned number 36, but enjoyable nonetheless. A coworker/friend and I were supposed to Karaoke last weekend, but she got sick. We rescheduled for this weekend and the world is under a sheet of ice. We will do it eventually!! Just not as one of my 40 new things...

So a couple weeks ago, Saturday Night Live celebrated its 40th season. Yup, SNL is the same age as me!! But yet, I have have never watched an episode. I am sure I've seen parts of sketches and remakes of sketches but I've never actually watched it, on purpose. If you know me, you know that by 10:30pm I am generally asleep. Even on a Saturday night! Or I'm not home. I know that there have been Saturday nights that I was watching a movie or something and when SNL started, I knew it was time to go to bed!

The other reason I've never wanted to watch an episode is that I just didn't think I'd find it funny. I generally don't like making fun of people, play-acting dumbness, etc. And I thought that was what it was all about.

I decided that the 40th anniversary special would be a good place to start. To maybe catch up. It was definitely star-studded! I was entertained. I even laughed. It was long though. I found myself doing other things in the second hour. The memorial tribute was nice - I'm really glad they put that in.

When it was over, I found myself wanting to watch a "real" episode, so I guess that says a lot. However, it doesn't start for another 1.5 hours and then it's 1.5 hours long! So, yeah, maybe tomorrow I'll watch it online :) I suppose that takes some of the "live" out of it, but I'm okay with that!!

And I will no longer "avoid" it. If I'm up and it comes on, perhaps I'll just leave it on!!

OMG - only FOUR more!!

40 4 40 #35 Buy (& Use) a Groupon

This is the latest in a series of entries chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40 NEXT WEEK!! It now appears as though I will be successful :) You can read all the entries using the label 40 4 40.

A couple months ago, while discussing new things with someone, they said I should see if there's a Groupon for skydiving. I replied that I had never used a Groupon before and didn't really understand them. I thought that you had to have a group go in on it together to get the deal. That seemed way complicated! But she assured me it was easy and I should try it. So I did :)

A few days later, I went to the Groupon website to see what it was all about. Wow. You can get them for haircuts, oil changes, trips, stuff, and who knows what else!! Basically, what I determined is that a vendor decides it wants to sell a certain number of their product for a discounted price. They put it up as a Groupon. This guarantees them that certain number of customers. Most of the ones that I looked at said you could only buy one, unless buying more for a gift. Not sure how that works!

I looked at the list several times before I settled on something. I figure I can always use a massage :) I chose a local, independent lady who was asking half price for a 1 hour Swedish massage. I decided to make the appointment closer to my bday so I purchased the Groupon in January but used it just this week!

The whole process was quite simple. And the massage was heavenly!! I highly recommend Carolyn's Healing Hands and I will go back!! Partly because she gave me a discount coupon for my next visit :) She had her table in a little tiny room that barely let her walk around the table. Low overhead means she can do discounts, I guess!!

Anyway, I now get regular emails from Groupon and will definitely keep an eye on any wonderful bargain. And since I like to get a facial and/or massage at least once a year, it's perfect for the cheapskate in me!!

I am currently working on #36. I can't believe I'm almost done and almost 40!!! Thanks for reading this journey with me :)

40 4 40 #34 Mammogram

This is the latest in a series of entries chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in March. I'm almost done!! You can read all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

I am probably the only woman in the history of radiology who was THIS excited to get a mammogram!! But I've wanted one for a long time. Soon after I had my thyroid (and its cancer) removed at 27, a co-worker lost his 31 year old wife to breast cancer. My doctor told me I didn't need a mammogram yet. Whatever. I've asked several over the years and they all say the same thing - not until you're 40 unless you have a family history; self-exams are sufficient.

So a couple weeks ago, I went to see the lady doctor for my annual visit and as soon as she looked at my age and started to suggest a mammogram, I said "YES PLEASE NOW!!". She laughed once I told her I wanted it to be a new thing :)

Today I chatted with some coworkers after school and cheerfully exclaimed, "I have to go get my boobies squeezed now"!! They rolled their eyes at me and told me to have fun :)

I chose the Azle hospital radiology because I knew where it was and it was easy to get to and all that good stuff. The woman was very nice and informative and gentle. I didn't tell her about the new thing thing but I did tell her I'd been waiting a decade and was very excited. She seemed to like my attitude.

Here's a picture I snuck of the machine. Other than that, I'll leave out the details. It was NOT painful, just a little uncomfortable. Really it was more awkward because of the pose, not the actual squishing!!

I was tempted to ask her for a selfie with me but I thought that might be weird. :D So, ladies, GO GET YOUR MAMMOGRAM!!! If you're not yet 40, do your self-exams. IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!!!!!!!

40 4 40 #33 Shoot a Gun

This is the latest in a series of entries chronicling my journey to try 40 new things before I turn 40. You can read all the entries using the label 40 4 40.

I have vague memories of being 6 or 7 years old when the family would drive out of the city and up a dirt road to where the desert met the mountains. There, they would shoot guns at rocks, or something.  I think it was a 22 rifle. I know it was a rifle, and I know that there was a 22 in the family. I don't know that they were one and the same. I don't know much about guns except there are handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Oh wait, maybe they shot a shotgun... I remember picking up shotgun shells. But perhaps they were already there from other shooters?! I could just ask my dad but it's much more fun retelling from odd memories :)

Anyway, I am pretty sure, after asking both parents, that I never shot the gun. I was much too young and small. And other than that I do not recall ever being near a gun that was being shot, let alone shooting it, so I added it to my list... and then I went to see one of the school cops. Officer Coomer is one of our district officers who is also a certified teacher. His office is around the corner from my last classroom and we used to chat all the time while "monitoring the halls". I think that's the only thing I miss about that classroom!! I knew he had some guns. A collection of guns, really. Yeah, the man has a lot of guns.

He said he'd be happy to let me shoot a gun so we decided when the weather got nice we'd chat again. This past weekend, until last night, was basically PERFECT weather here in North Texas. We had a "cold front" last night so this afternoon it was "only" 60 and it was windy, but it was still nice enough!! I told Coomer that I just wanted to shoot a gun, not all his guns or anything. Nothing fancy. One shot and I would be happy.

I got to his house, and he was ready for me with his AR15 assault rifle. It was heavy. He said it had a heavier barrel so it was steadier. Or something like that. We golf carted down to the pond and he shot a round into the water. Didn't seem too bad. I put her to my shoulder (with some direction - that pocket isn't easy to find!) and pulled the trigger! She had a little kick (not that I know what a lot would feel like) but nothing painful. It was LOUD. I had on headphone things and still heard it quite well! He then showed me how it fires multiple rounds - 1 every 32 nanoseconds? or was it 32 rounds a minute? I don't remember but it was fast and loud and I would NOT want to be on the other end!!! I didn't try that though. I might have killed a tree or something!

And then we chatted for a minute and I left. Short, and simple :) But now I want to go to a shooting range and try a handgun :) I have no desire to ever own a gun and I don't think I could ever point one at a living thing, even if I was in danger, but it was fun just that one trigger pull!!

Officer Coomer and I

Ready for action!

Pretty sure he was thinking "WHY are you taking MY picture"

40 4 40 #32 Rodeo

This is the latest in a series of posts chronicling my journey of trying 40 new things before I turn 40 in March. You can read all the related posts under the label 40 4 40.

I kinda feel like a lot of these new thing have really been about becoming more Texan, or getting acquainted with Texas stuff. Last night was no different! I went to the rodeo!!

Rodeo is kind of a hot button amongst hard core vegans and other animal advocates. I decided I needed to see it for myself. I mean, I'm SURE that they treat those animals like family, right!? I would!! Did you know that not everyone is like me!?!!? (Thank goodness, right?!)

Anyway, several months ago, I put out on Facebook that I'd like to see what a rodeo is all about. My good friend Sheila suggested THE rodeo at THE Fort Worth Stock Show which is a MAJOR annual event here in Cowtown. I've also never been to the stock show. So we made plans and after a few adjustments, last night was the night! When I called to buy the tickets, the lady was very nice and made sure we got excellent seats since it was my first rodeo (I really enjoyed saying that - hehe).

After driving around for 30 minutes trying to figure out where to park so as not to walk across all of Fort Worth to get our tickets at will call and get in to the rodeo, we eventually ended up finally in the arena. The stock show is HUGE!! The arena does not look like an arena until you get inside!!

Basically, a football field looking dirt floor with seats all around is the arena. There were chutes at both ends. It was all quite fascinating. Oh, and all the same food and merchandise type sales that you find at any sporting event. But once inside where the dirt floor is, it smells like barn :) That's the difference! One of the merchandise pieces for purchase was a furry pink cowgirl hat with a flashing tiara on the front. I was SOOO tempted!!!

So, all the events happened. And I kept cheering for the cow or horse or whoever was being thrown or bound or otherwise tortured. Yup, I did NOT enjoy watching those poor, sweet calves being roped and thrown and left to lie there until someone got around to loosening the rope.

I enjoyed my evening because I had good company and the whole thing was fascinating. I don't need to do it again. BUT I would like to go to the actual stock show and see the fluffy cows and all that - seriously I learned that they give them baths and dry them and stuff - intriguing!! I hope to be able to take a day off next year (to avoid weekend crowds) and maybe even get to see one of my students show a cow or goat or something.

Side note: I'm kinda sad that I'm almost "done". I keep telling myself that I don't have to stop trying new things - I just won't have to count them anymore :)

40 4 40 #31 Ride Along

 This is the latest in a series of posts chronicling my attempt to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in March. You can read all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

I know I keep saying this, but I truly didn't think this one was going to happen! I can't even remember where the idea came from. Back in December at the Jingle Bell Run, I asked my cop partner if police ever did ride alongs. He said they did and I just needed to go to a station and tell them what I wanted and fill out a form. That's kinda intimidating!

In January, I actually had it on my schedule to go to a police station and inquire. I was discussing it with someone when I had the brainstorm to do it in Azle! It might be more meaningful in the community that I work in. Perhaps I'd see parts of Azle I had never been to. AND I have a connection - 2 school cop/teachers, plus 2 SROs (I teach the daughter of one of them!). So I asked the one I know the best and he said sure, ask the SROs. I did and Officer Kidd set it all up for me!!

So yesterday afternoon, I went on a ride along! I showed up about 15 minutes before shift change and met up with Officer Hearn. I filled out the form so no one could sue them if this didn't go well. And off we went!!!

We started off doing traffic. You know the cop that hides around that bend and tags ya?! Yep, that was us :) There's a highway that runs through Azle with a speed limit of 60. Don't go over 70!! We caught a few, but just gave warnings. We also then went down by the high school and caught a delinquent inspection sticker. Yeah, I work with that one. Hehe. He also got a warning.

Then we went to a different part of the highway. We caught a lady speeding and also got a flat tire when we pulled off behind her. She got a ticket. Not because of the flat tire though. Just because she was speeding. We had to wait to get a spare from another officer and then we (okay, Hearn) fixed it. I got a text from a co-worker asking about my standing on the side of the road :)

Let's see, after that, we went back to the station to drop off the tire. While there, Hearn spoke to someone (his boss?) who told him to try the new car... the brand new, less than 100 miles, Ford Police Interceptor. So we did :) It was NICE! Except the driver window wouldn't roll down properly and Hearn said it wasn't fast enough.

As it got dark, we made one more traffic stop. Poor guy had warrants out. He ended up in the back seat. While Hearn was processing him, I chatted with other officers and the dispatchers. He felt bad because I wasn't "on the street" but I learned a lot!!

At this point, we'd been on shift for 6 hours, it was 8pm. We decided it was dinner time. We went to a local bbq restaurant that I'd never been to but heard a lot about so that was a good choice. It was pretty good. Hearn drove through parts of Azle I'd never visited to show me around. It was awful nice of him.

Then we helped another officer attempt to arrest a guy on an assault charge. The woman who answered the door said he wasn't home. Uh huh. I stayed in the car and watched for running figures but nothing exciting happened. We stopped for a burger for the prisoner and went back to the station. I got a tour of the jail. Three male cells and one female cell. Interesting...

And then I left! I never felt in danger. I was proud of how all the officers did their job. Hearn was very polite with everyone he encountered. He really believes in deterring bad behavior, not "Getting the bad guy".  He explained everything to me, including his thought process about giving warnings vs. citations and such. And he truly didn't want to arrest the guy!

I found myself correlating police stuff with teaching. It's not like I WANT to fail students, but when they don't do what they're supposed to do, it's kinda required. And I hate it. I try not to go straight to detention giving when I can give a warning or two, in hopes that it'll never get to detention giving. There were other similarities, but I can't remember them now.

I must add that I was still getting over this stupid cold. I had just gotten to the couching stage. And so I coughed. And coughed. Obnoxious, crying fits of coughing. WITH cough drops. Luckily the severity lessened or I would've had to go home. But I still sucked on cough drops all night long!!!

So, I am VERY glad I did the ride along. And I'm glad I did it in Azle. It definitely was more meaningful getting to see a different side of the community I serve.

40 4 40 #30 Cooking Class

 This is the latest in a series of posts chronicling my attempt to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in March. You can read all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

I went back and forth about whether or not I should do this. Or right now anyway. I looked and looked but the best offerings were at Central Market (Whole Foods-esque but bigger and swankier) but every class cost about $60!! That's a lot to spend to make some food. But I decided I did really want to try it and I probably wouldn't spend the money just because. So yet another new thing spurred on by the challenge of this journey :)

The schedule is posted a couple months out. So when I was looking for a class in the beginning of January, I could see January and February's offering. February had a bunch of couple crap. Ew. So I perused the January classes a few times trying to decide what I'd like and what would be worth the money. I decided on Chiles Rellenos because it offered all the sides too. I do not like hot food so I was pretty sure I'd never make the Chiles again, but rice and beans and such are right up my alley!!

Turned into a very busy week and on top of it, I had a cold. But I went anyway!! And I am so glad I did!! What fun!!! Nettie Lopez was our chef and she was a hoot. I was sat at a table with 3 others. Two young ladies who seemed to be good friends, and a man. He was wearing a wedding ring but I decided not to ask where his wife was. He was very nice and actually knew most of what Nettie taught us. Except the egg white stuff. Which was the only part I DID know!!

We started by roasting our chiles. They were Poblano so fairly large. Central Market is known for their Hatch chiles but apparently they are much smaller. I was already learning stuff!! To roast the peppers one needs a flame. Yeah, I have electric and no grill. Technically you can broil them she said.

Our Chiles!

Chef Nettie showing us how to roast 'em!

We all got up and roasted out chiles. I liked the demonstration plus hands on flow of the class. Once the chiles were roasted, they went back in the bowl, covered with plastic wrap to "sweat" so it'd be easier to peel. Peel? I said!! Yup, learning all kinds of stuff!!

Then we learned how to make the rice. I believe this was my favorite part of the whole night. Partly cuz my table mates let me do the actual work on it! And partly cuz this is something I'd make again on my own! The trick to the rice is toasting the dry (white) rice and then adding it to the boiling broth mixture. then you LEAVE IT!!

Toasting rice and sampling the broth for the right amount of salt and such.

While the rice was cooking, we peeled and stuffed our chiles. The chef folks had made the filling before hand. This is quite the time consuming meal!!

Peeled and stuffed. I am not an expert...

Then came the tricky part. Okay, not really. I totally understood what was happening but others did not. I guess because I like to bake and have dealt with egg whites before. Anyway, you have to beat the egg whites to a soft peak, then add half as many yolks and beat just until mixed. And once that mixture starts to fall (or get kinda watery) you have to start over! I went last and go to make a fresh batch. Anyway, the stuffed chile gets rolled in flour and then covered in the egg before getting fried. There were lots of comments about the amount of oil. People just don't fry like they used to and that's not a bad thing!!

At this point we were done cooking!! The chefs had made the boracha (beer?) beans and churros. Oh, my tablemates made guacamole while I was finishing up my chiles. No biggie - THAT I can make!!

And then we ATE :)

our finished rice

churro and ice cream 

I didn't eat very much. I wanted leftovers, it was way too late for me, and I don't like spicy food. But I tried some of everything and it was all VERY YUMMY!!! I admit I ate the entire churro while it was hot. Not sure I've ever had a fresh churro before!!

I gave my chiles to a co-worker the next day at work and he said they were very well done. I ate the rest for dinner that next night. YUMMY!!!

Although taking more classes is cost prohibitive, I will keep an eye on the schedule in case there's ever anything that I really want to learn - pastries or something maybe. I had a GREAT time and would go all the time if it was more like $20!!!

Me and Chef Nettie :)

40 4 40 #29 Spiral Diner

This is the latest in a series of entries telling the story of my journey to turning 40 by trying 40 new things before I get there. You can read all the entries using the label 40 4 40.

When I made my dinner plans for this evening, I was not thinking of a new thing. I just wanted to have dinner with a friend! There's a restaurant in Fort Worth (there's also one in Dallas, but who cares about Dallas) called Spiral Diner. It is known for its vegan food. Years ago, when I was my vegan-ist, I looked at the menu and remember funky sounding stuff and PB&J. Three (or four?) years ago, a co-worker, Bill, even gave me a gift card to eat there. Except, they didn't have cards that day so he just gave me cash. I really did mean to go eat there, but it just never happened. So when I wanted to have dinner with Bill, I thought, hey let's go to Spiral Diner. Also, my birthday cake is being made by them so I thought maybe I should try their food :) As Bill and I often do, we included his daughter in our outing. MaryEllen is an elementary school librarian and tri-athlete.

It was today as I was getting excited to try the restaurant that I pondered calling it a new thing. I have had vegan food in a restaurant before. So I decided to wait and see what it was all about when I got there. EVERYTHING IS VEGAN!!! So, yup, my first time in an all vegan restaurant. But SO not my last :)

It is very rare that I can eat an item "as-is" off the menu. Between my attempt at being vegan-ish and my vinegar allergy, it's tough to eat anywhere! Which is why, often, vegan goes by the wayside. Sadly, Spiral Diner was no different. Except, that all I took off my order of Nachos Supremo was the onions and jalapeños!! I would guess that somewhere in something there was vinegar but since it would probably be apple cider or something even fancier, I wasn't overly worried (I'm an hour+ out and still doing okay!).

My nachos had a cashew-based "cheese", "sour cream", quinoa (what? who would've thought of putting a GRAIN on your nachos!?!?!), black olives, corn, guacamole, and maybe beans (I can't remember). SOOOOO AMAZINGLY GOOOD!!! Tasted JUST like regular nachos! But maybe even better!!! I am so putting quinoa on my nachos from now on.

Oh yeah, I took a picture.

I brought half home. Even if the chips are a soggy mess tomorrow night, I'm betting it'll still be YUMMY!!!

For dessert, I had a chocolate cupcake. I wouldn't have had dessert, but I thought I should probably try the cake to make sure my birthday cake will taste yummy. Yup, no worries!! Even if you don't like me, come for the cake!!! Bill and MaryEllen shared a slice of blueberry pie a la mode. It looked equally scrumptious. 

I should add that Bill is a carnivore who loves Spiral Diner and MaryEllen is a vegetarian who might as well be vegan and loves Spiral Diner. They both eat there often. Although everything is vegan, no one misses out on the flavors and yumminess that you'd get at any restaurant. 

We also had great conversation, as always, catching up on school stuff and travels and dogs. 

I can't wait to go back!!! (AND if I do everything I'm supposed to do, I officially will get to 40!!)

40 4 40 #28 HamFest

This is the latest in a series of entries chronicling my journey to 40. I'm trying 40 new things before I get there in March! You can check out all the entries under the label 40 4 40.

I almost turned around and didn't do this new thing today. I miscalculated time frames and ended up VERY late. But I went!

HamFest is an annual event sponsored by the local Ham Radio Club and is attended by hams from all over the area. I admit I didn't know exactly what to expect. They had some educational type sessions so I planned to attend one that was supposed to talk about the Balloon Project, which is a big deal in this particular (all?) radio club. The tag line is something about space for amateurs. Then I figured I'd look around at what all the rest of HamFest is about.

Yeah, I should have left the house at 11am. Instead I got in the shower at 11am. I knew something was supposed to happen at 11am!! I ran a bunch of errands on the way. All of which took longer than anticipated. I decided to skip the balloon session. Then, I realized that the whole thing ended at 3pm. I got there at 2:30. Oops. The very nice gentlemen laughed with me and wouldn't let me pay the entry fee. I thought of it as a donation to the club but oh well.

Most of the vendors were gone. But the few that were there pretty much spelled out what I'm pretty sure HamFest is all about... it's a big radio swap meet!!! I did promise the nice gentleman at the front on my way out (I walked the entire floor space in about 5 minutes) that I would be back, at a normal time, next year. And I will!! Hopefully, by then, I'll actually be involved in the club a little and will know some of the people!

I took no pictures of course. But here's one I stole off the group page on Facebook :) I didn't see it this full!!

40 4 40 #27 Kimbell

This is the latest in a series of posts about my attempt to try 40 new things before I turn 40 in March. I started in July. You can read all the posts through the label 40 4 40.

I love art. Well, some of it. In high school French class, I came to adore French Impressionism. Sitting in front of Monet's Water Lilies in their full room wrapping glory was a moment that is hard to forget! I saw the Mona Lisa that same day (different museum) and was unimpressed. Apparently, I'm a picky art lover :)

There are several Fort Worth art museums and of course several way over there in Dallas. I've actually been in a little of one of those (I transported college students).  However, after living in Washington, DC, I have issues paying to go in a museum. Of course, some of the museums offer some parts free, while visiting exhibits and such cost money. Yeah, I'm cheap. It's all good.

One of the local Fort Worth museums that often has good visiting exhibits is the Kimbell Art Museum. I've been hearing about it since I got to Texas but just never went. I heard somewhere years ago that the Kimbell offered deals on certain nights and such. I decided I should see what it's all about.

Turns out their permanent exhibit is actually free!! But... when I went to their website to learn this, I also found out their current visiting exhibit is Impressionists!!! The Faces of Impressionism to be exact. So, I bit the bullet, went on half price night, and paid $9 to see the exhibit.

I wasn't impressed. As is my typical way of being, I didn't actually read about the exhibit, or even the fine print. I saw Impressionism and got excited. Yeah, I don't really care for portraits. The development of the art of portraiture over the years was kind of interesting. And one of the pieces was one of my favorite Monet's. Well, there are lots of renditions of basically the same piece. This one is a little pinker/lighter, as I see them. I think it's fascinating how Monet (and some of the others) chose to basically void out the actual face so it could be any woman. Yup, I do love Monet. No pictures in the exhibit, so here's one I found online.

I was in the exhibit about 10 minutes. I then spent 5 minutes chatting with a former student. You know you've been teaching a while when you see former students everywhere you go :) I decided that while I was there I should check out the permanent collection. I had perused the pictures posted on the Kimbell website and there seemed to be a LOT of sculpture. Not my thing.

I was pleasantly surprised in one of the galleries by a Monet. Again, he's my favorite :) It's called Weeping Willow and was painted after WWI (or during?) and is said to reflect his unhappiness with the state of the world. The actual tree sits on the edge of his water lilies. We could take non-flash pictures in this gallery :) Doesn't do it justice of course!

I rounded the corner and saw another piece that was dark and dreary but still drew me in. Sure enough, it's Monet! Not like most of his more famous works, it actually was one of his earliest. There was also another less colorful one of a train station that I couldn't take a picture of cuz it was on loan to the museum :(

And then I left. I was there for exactly an hour. Not bad!! This is why I go to museums alone :) On the way out, going from one building to the other, I snapped this sculpture. SO not my thing!

In the other direction is the Will Rogers Arena where the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is opening this weekend (stay tuned for rodeo new thing!). There's a carnival and people and cows (I didn't actually see any cows tonight, but I know they're there!!). Looked like fun. I snapped a pic of this building though. I have been in this "cultural area" many times. I swear I've never noticed this building!!

As much as I don't like paying to go to a museum, I'd go back for other special exhibits if they were interesting to me. The parking was free, everyone was very nice and helpful, and the art was exhibited well. And, you know, if there's more Monet :)