The List

Overall I received more than 120 suggestions from family and friends--ideas ranging from exploring the jungles of Africa to sending a message in a bottle. I am tickled and honored by the thoughtfulness that went into these ideas, and I wish that I had the time and the means to include all of them...well, almost all of them. :)

One conflict I had while forming this list was whether to include 6 very literal takes on the 31 theme like, "Try all 31 flavors on one cone." After a little debate I conceded that they were just too delicious to pass up, so I added the 6 to my already very flavorful assortment...as sort of the sprinkles on top.

For the 31, I tried to compile a list that would challenge me to experience life from a variety of angles. Eventually I settled on 27 ideas that varied from simple to complex, steap to cheap, silly to profound. I left 4 spots open for any stirring suggestions I get along the way.

So here they are, in no particular order. Though I must admit that some of the list has me a tad nervy, I am excited to embark on this journey of self-exploration!

The Flavors

1. Go down to the lakeshore and write down all of your blessings - TiffanyFortna,Chicago IL
2. Perform at an open mic night - Amy Dunlap, Chicago IL
3. Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure - Bob Burke, Sarasota FL
4. Zip-lining - Me
5. Learn to quilt - Teria Brooking, Ogden UT
6. Go to a city meeting on a political issue - Amy Jensen, Suffolk County, NY
7. Write a children's story or song - Linda Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
8. Indulge yourself in a wildly extravagant meal - Philip Zinn, Western Colorado, CO
9. Audition in New York - Dana Atkins, Pocatello ID
10. Organize a service project for a pediatric ward - Linda Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
11. Learn to play Golf - Bob McGuire, Oswego IL
12. Build a piece of furniture with your dad - Dale Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
13. Start one day at 4 am on purpose - Catherine Ramirez, Houston TX
14. Visit Amish Country - Dave Coffman, Idaho Falls ID
15. Learn a skill at the Actor's Gym - Blair Robertson, Chicago IL
16. Take a helicopter ride - Jon Moran - Elmhurst IL
17. Crochet an afghan - Deanna Rasmussen, Ogden UT
18. Read a book that pertains to our family - Linda Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
19. Learn to play the Ukalele - Me
20. Take a pole-dancing class - Jason and Elizabeth Hopkins - Chicago IL
21. Collaborate with me on a song - Lindsey Lloyd, Pocatello ID
22. Learn German and visit Germany - Me
23. Take an art class - Linda Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
24. Fly a kite as an adult - Janie Wallace, NYC
25. Visit a prison - Neal Schmidt, Chicago IL
26. Go through the Temple with your family - Brett Shearer, Inland Empire CA
27. Use only one hand for an entire day - Joy Crenshaw, Chicago IL
28. Start a blog - Me
29. Attend the Oprah Show - Kristine
30. 
    

The Sprinkles

1. Try 31 Flavors on 1 cone - James Lloyd, Pocatello ID
2. Pay it back 31 times but keep it your secret - Tracy Callahan, Ogden UT
3. Laugh 31 times in a day and record it - Linda Shearer, Idaho Falls ID
4. On December 31, give 31 dollar bills to 31 individuals less fortunate than you - Jan Hillman, Sacramento CA
5. Write a letter to your offspring to read when they are 31 - Lisa Niedermeyer, NYC
6. Write 31 influential people and thank them - Jan Hillman, Sacramento CA