Bucket List: A list of things to do before you die. Comes from the term "kicked the bucket"

The “bucket list”, a somewhat morbid concept first introduced to me by my mother insisting that I see the movie coining the term as its title, which starred Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman (two actors I wouldn’t mind living without). I felt as though the movie itself was subpar, while the message hidden underneath the actor’s distinct voices was nothing short of important, even if it seems cliché on the surface. Intended to outline one’s greatest dreams and aspirations; large and small, the items on your bucket list should both clarify and motivate you towards an enjoyable life. I have thrown together a list in half an hour, off the top of my head, fortunately for me the “bucket list” can be modified, added to, and altered…

1. Travel the world (not once, but indefinitely as a lifestyle)and photograph the lives of 15 cultures, minimum.

2. Be the subject of a beautiful black and white photo shoot.

3. Raise or contribute to the lives of at least ten young children.

4. Have my book published…and then another.

5. Have the largest most wonderful bed with bedding of equal caliber.

6. Fall in love with a man I consider to be my best friend.

7. Own a home in at least 3 countries; 1 beachy, 1 snowy, 1 beautiful.

8. Find a way to thicken my hair.

9. Convince at least one person to do Gerson Therapy instead of Chemo.

10. Learn to understand and speak at least one foreign language.

11. BUILD TREE HOUSES!

Italian Joy...enough said

The book Italian Joy by Carla Coulson has proven to be yet another source of inspiration towards the lifestyle I hope to achieve. Not only does this book provide a gracefully written account of the ups and downs of transplanting ones' life into a foreign country, but it is possibly arranged in the most beautiful way I have ever seen a book. Coulson provides a sensory adventure for the visually inclined, and I am willing to bet that most people who experience this book are, in some way, inclined to do what Carla so bravely did. 

Coulson's decision to up and leave her previously comfortable life for the unknown world of romantic Italy only makes me want to change my departure date to tomorrow. She decided to follow her passion for photography and ended up head over heels in love with the Italian lifestyle. Although the author is considerably older than me, she seems to possess many of the same values as myself; food, photography and people, along with anything else that entails. If you have not already, I strongly suggest you and your friends not only read, but purchase a copy of Italian Joy, if not for the inspiring content, for the stunning visual feast. This book exemplifies yet another ordinary person playing in a world of extraordinary creativity and sincere enjoyment, something we could all use more of.