A Productive Four-Day Weekend

I had four glorious days off of work this past week.  I decided to take advantage of that time and accomplish a few items on my list.  

First up: a hike.  It has been years since I last enjoyed a hike so I was excited when one of my friends agreed to go hiking in Catalina State Park with me.  Since we are not experienced hikers, we decided to complete one of the shorter trails.  

Thankfully, the weather cooperated and it was an enjoyable hike.  Thanks for going with me, Rachel!

  

Next up: trying a new type of food.  After the hike, Rachel volunteered to cook lunch.  I am a picky eater; I stick primarily to Italian and Mexican cuisine and rarely try new foods.  Rachel prepared two new things for me to try: venison and asparagus.  

The venison and asparagus were pretty yummy, but I think I'll probably stick with chicken.  I am so grateful that my friend took time out of her day to cook for me.  You're the best, Rachel!  

Another item that I can cross off of my list: painting my nails a bright color.  I am a perfectionist and haven't mastered the art of painting my own nails, especially if I attempt to use a bright color.  Usually I settle on a clear polish or, if I'm feeling particularly daring, a light silver.  If I try anything brighter it usually turns out too thick and chips almost instantly.  Thanks to my friend Vicky I now have bright purple nails.  

The gel polish looks great; I've gotten several compliments on the color, too.  This is definitely something that I should have done a long time ago.

The highlight of my long weekend, though, involved a hot air balloon ride.  

When I'm out and about early in the morning I often see hot air balloons floating near the mountains.  I've always wanted to go up in one but I've been terrified to look into it.  Luckily Vicky also wanted to go.  She helped give me the final push I needed to sign up for a ride.  

I will admit, getting in the basket was the hardest part.  My legs were shaking as we prepared to take off.  I am usually okay with heights but the idea of standing in a wicker basket with a flame directly above my head was slightly unsettling.  Once we floated off, though, my fears were alleviated and I enjoyed the view.  

The only rough part of the ride was the landing.  With nine people in the basket we were not able to land upright.  After hitting the ground a few times we finally tipped onto our side.  I was unfortunate enough to be on the side that struck the ground.  Besides being a bit rattled, though, we were fine.  

After getting to know the rest of the passengers rather well, I climbed out and ended my adventure with a mimosa.  Now that I know what to expect I would definitely go again!

Total items completed: 8