From the Northern Lights to the Rose Parade, five unforgettable experiences I'd love to turn into memories.
I've always believed that one of the great things about life is that there's always something new to discover, somewhere new to explore, and another experience waiting around the corner.
Some of those experiences happen unexpectedly. Others are things we've dreamed about for years, imagining what it would be like to actually be there instead of watching on television or seeing someone else's photographs.
That's where a bucket list comes in.
Mine isn't necessarily about climbing the highest mountain, visiting every country, or doing something outrageous just to say I've done it. It's more about experiencing moments that I think would be unforgettable.
Some are spectacular displays of nature. Others are celebrations, traditions, or remarkable examples of what people can accomplish.
And while my list is considerably longer than five, these are five experiences I'd especially love to have.
1. Seeing the Northern Lights
I've seen photographs and videos of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, and every time I think the same thing: I want to see that with my own eyes.
Imagine standing outside on a cold, clear night, somewhere in Alaska, Iceland, or Norway, watching the sky come alive with ribbons of green, purple, and pink.
There's something about nature putting on a show that no human being could ever duplicate.
No tickets. No stage. No special effects. Just the universe reminding us how extraordinary this world really is.
I'd probably stand there freezing, looking up, grinning like a little kid. And I'd be perfectly happy.
2. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta — New Mexico
Every October, hundreds of colorful hot air balloons fill the skies over Albuquerque, New Mexico, during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
I've watched videos of the mass ascensions, and the sight is absolutely incredible.
Balloons of every imaginable color, shape, and size slowly rising into the morning sky as the sun comes up over the mountains.
I don't necessarily need to ride in one. I'd be perfectly content standing on the ground, watching the whole spectacle unfold.
Although, knowing myself, once I got there, I might just decide to climb aboard.
Sometimes the best adventures begin when you change your mind.
3. Fourth of July Fireworks in New York City
I've always thought there would be something special about celebrating America's birthday in New York City.
The crowds, the excitement, the skyline, and then that enormous fireworks display lighting up the night.
I want to experience the Fourth of July in NYC, particularly the famous Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks, surrounded by thousands of people all looking toward the same sky.
For a few minutes, everyone stops what they're doing and simply watches.
Different backgrounds. Different beliefs. Different stories.
But for that moment, everybody is sharing something together.
I think that would be pretty special.
4. Ironman World Championship — Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Now, before anybody gets excited, let me clarify something.
I want to WATCH the Ironman World Championship. Not compete in it!
The Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, has long fascinated me.
Athletes pushing themselves through a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride, and a full 26.2-mile marathon.
All in one day.
But what I'd really love to witness is the finish line, particularly the everyday competitors who have spent years working toward that moment.
The determination. The exhaustion. The tears. The overwhelming joy of hearing that they've become an Ironman.
There's something deeply moving about watching somebody accomplish something they once thought impossible.
And I suspect I'd be cheering just as loudly for the last person crossing the finish line as I would for the first.
5. The Rose Parade — Pasadena, California
For as long as I can remember, the Tournament of Roses Parade has been part of New Year's Day.
Watching those magnificent floats covered in flowers, the marching bands, the horses, and the crowds lining Colorado Boulevard has always been a wonderful way to begin a new year.
But I've never experienced it in person.
I'd love to be sitting along the parade route in Pasadena on January 1, watching those extraordinary floats roll past.
There's something wonderfully old-fashioned about the Rose Parade.
Tradition. Celebration. Creativity. A fresh beginning.
And maybe that's what appeals to me most.
A new year, a new beginning, and another opportunity to experience something wonderful.
There's Always Something to Look Forward To
One of the things I love about having a bucket list is that it gives you something to look forward to.
It's fun to imagine standing beneath the Northern Lights, watching hundreds of balloons rise into the sky, or cheering for someone crossing an Ironman finish line.
And it's even more fun to think about turning those imagined moments into actual memories.
I don't have dates on the calendar for any of these adventures yet, but that doesn't make them any less exciting. Sometimes the anticipation is part of the enjoyment.
And I suspect that as I start checking experiences off my list, I'll discover a few more to add.
That's the wonderful thing about life. There's always another place to explore, another person to meet, another experience to enjoy, and another memory waiting to be made.
A bucket list isn't about everything you haven't done. It's about all the wonderful things you still want to do.
And that's something worth getting excited about.
So, what's on your bucket list? Is there a place you've always wanted to visit or an experience you've dreamed about having?
I'd love to hear about it. Who knows? You might give me a few more ideas for mine!
Small steps. Every day.
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