So, I mentioned in my first blog the idea of 50 new things in my 50’s. It all started as a joke between my daughter and I as we discussed things in my life I had done versus the things I had not. Through that discussion, the idea gained momentum.

Now- to be clear I am no way ever going to jump off a bridge!  My goal is to experience and explore aspects of my life, many that I passed by in my younger years. There are no rules for what I am calling the 50/50 project.

I count experiences that are planned/directed such as, I chose to go wine tasting for the first time in Napa. On the other hand, I also count experiences/circumstances directed by others or life. A perfectly wonderful example is that I became a grandma for the first time.

So as my list grows I feel myself being more defined to whom I am and what I desire from my life. I am slowly gaining back a part me that I gave up many years ago, while I was married.

One of the most poignant experiences so far was going to the Culinary Institute of America in Napa. For most of my adult life, I have wanted to visit the culinary school, take a class, or just be there to see, smell and touch what cooking school was all about.

Now there were always promises to go there while I was married, but it never did occur. So, I eventually let my dream go, I put aside my desires and went on with life. See at one time, many years ago, I owned a small bakery and café, I love to cook and bake, and still to this day I cater for small events and treat friends and family to my culinary creations.

I was finally blessed enough to go the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Greystone in Napa Valley- my daughter and I planned a trip over Spring Break, the same trip this 50/50 project started to unveil. We headed to Napa Valley for wine tasting and then to visit the culinary school.

So, when it did finally happen, when I saw the large majestic stone building of the CIA, I observed chefs and students prepare food for an event, watched a cooking demonstration, ate at the café, and then experienced the culinary store…Well, to say I was overwhelmed with emotion was an understatement.

There I stood in the culinary store baking aisle in front of all these unique gadgets at this delightful prestigious school and I cried. I was so overcome with emotion, I had finally gotten to do something that was so very significant to me.

That one event taught me more than I could imagine. It opened my eyes to more, it rekindled a desire to want more in my life.

I realize I need more experiences and I want to regain what I have allowed to pass me by.  I now want to direct my future and not the other way around.

Oh…and yes- I will take a class at the Culinary Institute it is on the project list!