Day 118 - Attending a Political Convention (Democratic)

I have never been to a political convention. Now, I’ll be the first to admit that I hold some strong convictions in regard to political philosophy, but I have never subscribed to the idea of people being a “card carrying” member of any political party. In my opinion, ascribing political beliefs to a part of one’s identity throws critical thinking out the window and only serves to subject people massive instances of groupthink. As a result, I have avoided such influences, thought carefully about issues we encounter in the course of our nation’s progression, weighed both sides of any argument, and developed my own conclusions based on my assessment of the facts. I didn’t need a politically driven persuasion and I certainly didn’t need someone claiming membership to a political party telling me what to say or do. In turn, I abstained from political gatherings all together and had no intention of attending one any time in the future.

Fighting Bob Fest - The Program

Of course, this perspective has been challenged by my “I have never...” idea. As a part of my journey I resolved to periodically try new experiences that I had no desire to experience before. Like my previous encounters with getting my chest waxed, eating from a food cart, and trying Durian fruit, attending a political convention for either political party was something I didn’t want to experience, but I knew the only way I could judge such events was to experience them firsthand. As a result, I committed to attending a political convention for both major political parties in the United States during my “I have never...” year. When I learned such an event, Fighting Bob Fest, was occurring in Madison this weekend, I made the last minute decision to alter my plans and attend my first Democratic political convention. In turn, I made the short trip to the Alliant Energy Center in Madison this morning with a heavy degree of reluctance and a pointed effort to keep an open mind about the experience. Although it wasn’t what I wanted to be doing on a Saturday, I knew the experience would be insightful and revealing.

The crowd

When I arrived at the Alliant Energy Center this morning, I was surprised to find the parking lot of the center’s arena nearly full of cars. While I expected the largest “progressive” Democratic gathering in the United States to have a big draw, the quantity of vehicles caught me a bit off guard at first. Upon entering the center I found a moderately sized crowd of people milling about booths lining the arena’s main entrance hall. Political paraphernalia was scattered across the crowd on shirts worn by passing attendees, on displays strategic placed throughout the building, and on stacks of flyers and merchandise covering tables at each booth. After taking some time to look over some of the booths lining the entrance hall, I worked my way toward an entrance to the arena and walked out into the second tier of stands in the complex. To my right a woman spoke on stage placed at ground level in the arena as a crowd speckling the floor level and second tier seating listened on. To my surprise, the crowd in the area was much smaller than I expected based on the number of cars in the parking lot and the amount of activity in the entrance hall. Although it caught me off guard at first, I was happy to see the crowd wasn’t overwhelming in size given the relative ease with which I found a seat near the stage after descending to ground level. In turn, I settled in and prepared to spend a few hours listening to what the various speakers had to say.

Will Durst

For the next hour I sat and listened to several speakers discuss the issues of the day and offer perspective on how to address many of the problems facing Wisconsin and the nation. While some unique solutions were offered in the presentations, the bulk of the speeches were focused on rhetorical points meant to keep the crowd engaged in the discussions. After listening to several speakers, some themes began to emerge in their remarks, including opposition to a strike on Syria, support for public education funding, decreasing income inequality, campaign finance reform, and finding solutions to unemployment and student loan debt. While I found myself agreeing with a substantial portion of the perspectives presented, it was hard to ignore almost mechanical nature with which the topics were being presented and discussed. By the time I listened to several speakers address the audience it began to feel as though a formula was being used in each speech. Eventually, this cycle was broken up by a hilarious political comedian, Will Durst, who addressed a lot of the dysfunction in the United States political system with basic metaphor and no-nonsense perspective on the failings of those in office (with specific attention paid to members of the Republican party). The set served as a good relief from the themes of the earlier sessions. Once Will finished with his set, I decided it was a good time to grab some lunch, so I exited back out the entrance hall to grab a brat from one of the on-site concession stands.

Breakout Sessions!

With my meal complete, I decided to wander around the rest of the arena before the next set of speakers was slated to take the stage. Eventually, my path took me to a variety of “breakout sessions” that were occurring throughout the building. In each session a moderately sized group of people gathered in meeting areas and conference spaces to discuss specific topics in detail, which included everything from voting rights, to healthcare, to the Citizen’s United Supreme Court ruling and its effects on free speech. Although I didn’t stay for the full length of any specific session, the time spent at each was insightful and rewarding. Each group was composed of a few experts that facilitated discussion driven by members of the audience. In turn, ideas and solutions for each issue were discussed openly by members of the crowd, with each group seeking a common goal of taking a step toward finding a resolution to each issue at hand. The degree of involvement and passion of the group members was obvious, which gave me a positive feeling when compared against the rhetoric and formulaic approach I had heard in the earlier speeches. While is wasn’t nearly enough to shift my perspective on the downfalls of taking up the banner of a single political party, the sessions made me take comfort in the fact that there were so many people truly and actively concerned about addressing many of the issue facing our nation. They weren’t displaying signs of groupthink or mindless agreement. They were actively debating topics and thinking critically about solutions, and that was good to see.

The Solidarity Signers providing some entertainment

After spending some time visiting the breakout sessions, I worked my way back to the arena to see the headline speaker, Senator Bernie Sanders. As the most independent mind in Congress, Senator Sanders is one of the people I respect most in modern politics. As a result, the idea of seeing him speak was a very exciting prospect that I knew would make the experience at the convention worth the trip. That stated, I knew a few speakers stood between me and seeing Bernie speak, so I waited patiently as a political writer, Jon Nichols, and a potential gubernatorial candidate, state representative Kathleen Vinehout, gave rousing speeches about the state of our state and the role of citizens in forthcoming elections. 

Once finished, Jon and Kathleen cleared the stage for Bernie Sanders, who took to the microphone and immediately laid out a concise and unfiltered perspective on Washington D.C. In his speech, Senator Sanders discussed the dysfunction and failings of our political system before turning his attention to the prospects of an attack on Syria. From this, the focus of his speech evolved into a comparison of the time, resources, and risk of fighting a war in a foreign nation against fighting the wars on poverty, income inequality, education costs, unemployment, and civil rights within the United States’ borders. On each topic Senator Sanders presented a series of staggering facts on the United States’ lagging global standing in each area before making cogent points on the necessity of solving each issue. He presented ideas to solve each, and was direct in stating his belief the United States, of all nations, was capable of solving the issues facing our nation. To say the speech was riveting is an understatement. I have never seen someone speak with such passion, such well formulated arguments, and such purpose in my life. He spoke from his heart and developed arguments based on facts and well-formulated opinions. It was clear he wasn’t the typical politician... but that may be why he defines himself as an Independent when someone asks about his political affiliations.

Senator Sanders addressing the crowd

After nearly 30 minutes, Senator Sanders concluded his speech, which left me thinking about his purpose and the work that needs be done to fix the problems facing the United States. I thought about the points Bernie made as I worked my way back through the crowd and found my way to the doors of the arena. Although there were still plenty of events scheduled for the remaining portion of the afternoon, I knew nothing would compare to the speech by Bernie Sanders. As a result, I decided to wrap up my first experience at a political convention and head back home. While my first experience attending a political convention reinforced many of my beliefs about the relatively hollow nature of events focused on one political party, there were aspects of the event that provided deeper insight into the sources of political affiliation in the United States. Plus, I was able to see Bernie Sanders speak for the first time, which is something I will never forget. All things considered, those two experiences made today’s “I have never...” event more than worth it... Now I just need to attend a Republican convention to gain the experience from the opposite political perspective.

Day 117 - Visiting the Aldo Leopold Nature Center/Color Me Mad

I have never been to the Aldo Leopold Nature Center. More specifically, I have never been to an adults-only dance party in the Aldo Leopold Nature Center. For some background, the Aldo Leopold Nature Center is an education facility on a massive plot of natural grassland and wetland near the center of Monona, Wisconsin. The facility focuses almost exclusively on helping members of the community connect with nature in new ways as a standing tribute to its founder, Aldo Leopold. While visiting the Aldo Leopold Center was something I found appealing in and of itself, I was more than sold on making a trip to the facility when I recently learned it hosts an annual evening dance party at the end of each summer. Referred to as Color Me Mad, the event ties concepts of nature and environmental preservation together with drinks, music, and fun for any interested adults in the community. Realizing this was likely a highly unique experience, I picked up two tickets to the event as soon as I learned about its occurrence. As a result, Rachael and I set aside time to have some fun and attend Color Me Mad for the first time this evening.

The nature center

In an effort to experience the full nature center before night set in, Rachael and I drove to the Color Me Mad event before sunset this evening. Although the event wasn’t scheduled to start until 8:00 pm, we knew an early arrival would give us some time to explore the center grounds before attending the main event. Upon arriving at the facility, Rachael and I took some time to look around inside the center’s only building before heading to the property positioned at the back of the building. As we exited through the building’s back doors we were awestruck by the sight of the nature center grounds. Before us a wide open field of prairie grasses and bright yellow flowers spread out to distant tree lines bordering each side of the nature center’s land. Near the back of the space the grassland was divided by a small body of water before the grasses erupted from the ground once more and carried to a row of willows in the distance. In response to the view of the property I turned to Rachael and said the first thing that popped in my head, “I want to go in it.”

The view from the grassland

Rachael was quick to agree we should try to find our way into the grassland, which set us to work searching for paths cutting through the neck high plants. While we were able to easily locate walking trails through the property, our individual efforts caused us to split somewhere along our course. With Rachael walking a wide path toward the outside of the property, I cut toward the middle of the grassland until I found myself surrounded by the thick plant life I had observed from the nature center minutes earlier. Pressing on, I eventually worked my way back to a path that wrapped around the property’s body of water and led back toward Rachael. After almost stepping on a skunk that was digging in some nearby brush (I was no more than two feet from this thing... Luckily his head was too deep to notice me. Otherwise, my “I have never...” experience for the day would have turned out much, much differently) I met back up with Rachael. We decided to walk near the pond for a brief period before turning back to the nature center. With a little bit of good timing, we met the peak of the sunset as we walked back to the building in preparation for the forthcoming celebration.

...And a beautiful sunset to boot.

Once back inside the nature center, Rachael and I were greeted by a small crowd gathering for the Color Me Mad event. After receiving our formal tickets, Rachael and I took some time to explore the nature center’s displays, which included a self-contained ecosystem, interactive data on global warming trends, and a green screen feature that put the participant before a lot of unique displays. The various exhibits kept us entertained for some time as we moved through the building. We were already having fun and we had yet to work our way down to the beer and the DJ. 

Once we had experienced the bulk of the center’s interactive elements, we started working back toward the center of the building to grab a drink and listen to some music. On our way we encountered a room with a curtain draped over its door that was pumping music into the area. Curious, Rachael and I peered into the room to learn what was occurring inside. What we saw was incredible. In total darkness a massive orb known as a fractal orb sat suspended from the ceiling by a thing wire. The exterior of the orb was illuminated in moving patterns by four projectors in the room’s corners, which shifted the colors patterns, movements, and designs on the surface of the fixture to the beat of the music playing overhead.  The sphere’s changing lights and pictures were mesmerizing in the darkness. It was unlike anything I have ever seen before. It was amazing.

We spent quite some time before the fractal orb before Rachael and I decided to head back out to the main hall and head down to the opposite end of the building for some drinks and music. Over the next few hours Rachael and I sipped on some beers and talked among a moderately sized crowd of 20-somethings. As the night progressed more people made their way to the dance floor as local DJ Nick Nice spun music spanning several generations over a steady house beat. It was clear everyone in attendance was having a great time at an uncommon event, which made me happy we decided to stop by the Aldo Leopold Nature center tonight... That and the fact that we got to party next to stuffed bear for most of the night.

Can you find the bear?

Eventually, Rachael and I decided to call it a night after spending a few hours at the event (and running out of our drink tickets). Color Me Mad was certainly an event to remember, but I was disappointed I didn’t think to recruit some people to join us tonight when Rachael and I were making our plans earlier this week. While the crowd in attendance was full of good people, I know a lot of our friends would have had a blast experiencing Color Me Mad with us for the first time. The event had the vibe of a good party, but the added touches of the nature center’s unique exhibits, interactive features, and rustic setting made this a truly unique event. I thank all of the folks at the Aldo Leopold Nature Center for putting together Color Me Mad and being so courteous throughout the night. Needless to say, if the Aldo Leopold Nature Center decides to put on this event again next year, I will definitely be placing some calls to put a party crew together.

Day 116 - Exploring Lakeview Woods

I have never visited Lakeview Woods in Madison, Wisconsin. In fact, I was completely unaware of this densely forested area at the highest point in the city until just recently. Located just behind the Health and Human Services office building on the city’s north side, the park’s position makes it nearly invisible to passersby on the city streets wrapping around Lakeview hill. In fact, Lakeview Woods Park is so well hidden and unknown I can’t remember it ever coming up in my conversations about things to do around Madison; however, the few comments about the park I recently stumbled upon online were all very positive. While the mystery of Lakeview Park was enough to make me want to make a trip to the location, the appeal of the natural area inspired me to add the location to my “I have never list...”. As a result, I set aside some time this evening to make a trip to Lakeview Woods for the first time with hopes I would walk away with an experience to remember.

After finishing my workday today I immediately made my way to Lakeview Woods. As I climbed the narrow driveway leading up to the Health and Human Services building I kept my eyes peeled for some sign of the Lakeview Woods Park entrance. Even though I had some idea of where the park was located, I still found it challenging to locate the path into the park. A sign for the location was set back along a row of trees that obscured it from the driveway and the path leading to the woods entrance was hardly visible among the overgrowth in the area. After taking some time to look over the path and the sign, I ultimately determined I was in the correct location, but the degree of difficulty in locating the park entrance made it all the more apparent as to why the location was referred to as one of Madison’s “secret” areas.

Found it!

Once I had located the entrance to Lakeview Woods I promptly entered the woods along the sole path I had discovered earlier. After crossing a small fence at the border or the woods I was immediately surrounded by a looming canopy of leaves and walls of tall white flowers growing from the forest floor. Although the path through the woods widened upon breaking into the forest, the plant life around me made the stretch of dirt feel as narrow as it had been before. Around me an abundance of life fluttered with activity. The sounds of woodpeckers hammering at hollow trees, sparrows chirping, and squirrels busying themselves with autumn preparations were everywhere. So much so that the quantity of animals I heard or encountered caught me by surprise. Every time I turned my head there was activity in the woods, leaving me struck with a feeling of amazement. Although I was on the outskirts of the city of Madison, it felt as though I had stepped into a remote forest unspoiled by human contact. With the evening sun streaming through the forest canopy, the sight of the forest around was something to behold, which made me happy I had made the trip.

I continued down the path awhile longer taking in the views of the sunlight cascading over the forest floor and keeping my eyes peeled for more signs of life around me. Eventually, I came across an area in the woods that stood out from the areas around it. An odd, broken tree with a ladder tacked into stood in the middle of a clearing that seemed surprisingly void of growth. While there was enough of the area exposed to determine it was somehow different than the area around it, the clearing was far enough off of the trail that I couldn’t quite make out the finer details of said differences. As I stood before the area pondering what it may be, I recalled a portion of my renewed perspective I had pulled out of my skydiving experience last weekend. “Go the places people don’t go,” I said out loud looking over the heavily weeded area before me. Then, without hesitation I pressed my foot into the waist high weeds and forced my way forward.

Through thorns and burrs I pushed forward toward the clearing, landing my feet in small spaces between plants when possible. Eventually, my efforts pushed me into the clearing, which, to my surprise, was actually the foundation of a ruined building left to the forest for some years. Although the remaining part of the structure was significant in size, the growth on the forest floor had begun creeping over the top of the surface and forcing its way through cracks in the concrete. At one end of the foundation an old, rickety bench sat facing the depth of the woods, which made me wonder whether the place was frequented by other people. In response, I moved forward to check the bench, only to find a small push with my hand was enough to cause the bench to lean noticeably toward one side. As I stood briefly wondering how long it would stand, a sudden rustle and snap to my right broke my concentration.

The noise sent me moving slowly toward the area from which it had emerged, doing my best to maintain a slow, quiet pace. Despite my efforts, I eventually stepped on a branch buried somewhere in the dense weeds, which set a loud snap echo through the woods. In response, a series of light brown heads tipped with large pointy ears popped up just beyond the densest part of the undergrowth. Little more than 25 feet in front of me, a herd of seven deer stood grazing among the dense growth along the forest floor. Now aware of my presence, the deer stood weary for a brief moment before cautiously returning to their meal. Doing my best not to cause them panic, I move closer toward them through the weeds, doing my best to avoid looking at the deer directly and walking a wide path as to give the impression I was simply passing by. Although my movements caused the deer to shift their position in the forest a few times as I moved, they held their ground for the most part, which gave me the opportunity to observe them in their natural state as they wandered through the forest in the fading sunlight.

Deer!

For over an hour I slowly followed the herd through the woods, flanking the group as they walked down narrow trails to find the best spots for grazing. Although several of the deer remained wary of my presence, several of the animals eventually became used to my presence, permitting me to draw nearer to them as we moved through the forest. In particular, two of the deer, a doe with a light brown, nearly gray coat and a doe with a wounded leg seemed less concerned with their presence. As I snapped photos of the herd the happily continued grazing unaffected, even when other deer showed obvious warning signs in response to my motions and the clicking of the camera shutter. In fact, the two doe remained near me even as the remainder of the herd moved off deeper into the forest, with the injured doe showing a particular interest in my presence. In response, I made slow motions closer to the pair until I was little more than 10 feet off of their positions. The ability to remain so close to such agile and tentative wild animals was something I had never experienced before, and being in their presence during that quiet evening graze in the forest was something I won’t soon forget. I spent quite some time with the pair (I ended up calling them Gabby and Gil) before the coming night led me to decide it was time to depart Lakeview Woods. Laden with burrs and left hanging on a unique experience, I left the deer and found my way back to my car and made the short trip back home.

I didn’t expect much from tonight’s “I have never...” event, but I went into my first experience in Lakeview Woods hoping I would gain some good memories to carry with me. At that time I was simply hopeful the scenery of a beautiful forest in the parting days of summer would stick with me well past today’s experience. Never would I have expected my decision to spend some time in the woods would present me the opportunity to accompany a herd of deer around the forest for the better part of an hour and a half. While Lakeview Woods is a vibrant, beautiful place on its own, the fact that a group of wild animals were willing to let me spend the better part of the evening with them was an amazing experience. I’m not used to having luck like that, but I’m happy it has been on my side as I continue through this journey of new experiences.

Day 115 - The Dreambank/Receiving a Life Coaching Session

I have never been to the American Family Dreambank. As an added "I have never..." for the day, I have never received a life coaching session. For readers that are unfamiliar, The Dreambank is an American Family office solely dedicated to the personal development and well being of people within the community. As a vehicle for community outreach, American Family seeks to build success and sustainability in the communities in which the organization operates through a variety programs and activities. Although I only recently learned about this establishment, the underlying concept was something that appealed to me directly. While I didn't know how or when I would attend a meeting or program at the Dreambank, I knew I wanted to make a trip to the location a priority.

The Dreambank

As a result, I started looking over the Dreambank events schedule to narrow in on an event to attend. After a little bit of research, I came across a notice of a life coaching session available to all attendees that stopped by the Dreambank this evening. Admittedly, I knew very little about life coaching before committing to making the trip to the Dreambank tonight. I knew the basic concept of the practice was to help people assess life issues by getting advice from a designated "coach", but the specifics of the process were completely foreign to me. Given that was the case, I figured making a trip to the Dreambank tonight would provide me the perfect opportunity to experience something new, learn a little bit about life coaching, and potentially get some good advice on some of the areas of my life I'm hoping to improve. Consequently, I made my way down to the Dreambank tonight with an open mind and a sense of optimism. Although my visit was brief, my first experience at the Dreambank would prove a beneficial and insightful use of a otherwise typical Wednesday night.

The Dreambank

When I first arrived at the Dreambank I was surprised by the vibrant, welcoming interior. Displays lined the center of the building's main room, with personal development themes, entertaining games, and motivational challenges covering every inch of each fixture. Around the room a rather substantial group of people milled about, uplifting music quietly played through overhead speakers, and interactive television monitors displayed the dreams and goals of previous visitors. The area was certainly busy with the array of objects and displays, but at no time did it did feel overwhelming or forced. Everything in the room was balanced, which made it hard to feel anything but cheerful and inspired as I walked through the building.

The welcome sign

After a few minutes of walking around the building, I was approached by a man who asked if I was in attendance to receive a life coaching session. I confirmed this was the case, which prompted the man to advise me roughly a half of a dozen people were in queue before me. Although I knew that meant it would take some time for me to receive my life coaching session, I was happy to wait given the aspects of the space I had yet to explore. Ultimately, these elements of the Dreambank made my wait seem very short, and, in what felt like a only few minutes, I was soon greeted by another Dreambank employee who promptly guided to my meeting with my life coach.

After a brief introduction, I sat down with my life coach, Kate, who started off the meeting by asking me for a brief background of what inspired me to come receive a life coaching session. After explaining my "I have never..." concept, my curiosity about life coaching, and my ongoing efforts to improve as a person, Kate was quick to help me narrow in on some specific topics that we could discuss in our time together. Eventually, this led us to a discussion about my work experience, my career, and my long term professional goals. After giving Kate some background on my current work functions, my desires to help people, and my reluctance to pursue some career opportunities, she took a brief moment to think through my remarks before responding.

Inside the Dreambank

In a matter of moments Kate provided me concise, effective feedback that made me realize my career perspective had failed to recognize a lot of opportunity and motivational forces in my day to day life. More precisely, Kate helped me recognize that the focus and confidence I have in helping all of the people that report to me grow and develop personally was lacking in my personal development. Her words seemed natural and effortless as she turned my outward desire to help others achieve their career objectives inward. I listened on as Kate shined a light on the fact I was failing to give my own objectives the attention, input, and dedication I give each day to the employees that report to me. Kate then proceeded to give me a few ideas for visualizing and manifesting my professional goals, which she confidently stated would serve as my compass in making my dreams a reality. In little more than 15 minutes Kate had provided me perspective and insight that struck me and left me in a highly contemplative state. Stated plainly, I had been coached on my life, and I immediately knew I was better for it.

After a little more conversation about my ongoing "I have never..." journey, Kate and I wrapped up our conversation with some parting words. Kate gave me a quick reminder about the approach for assessing my career goals before I thanked her and found my way back out of the Dreambank. As I drove home I couldn't help but think through the advice Kate had given me and how I could apply it to my personal and professional life. As I worked through the ideas in my head, I could only conclude that if I was capable of sticking with this crazy "I have never..." idea, I certainly have what it takes to apply Kate's feedback and start consistently working on my professional goals. After all, if Kate thought I was capable of doing it after talking to me for little more than 20 minutes, I must have what it takes to make it happen.

This thought process stuck with me well into the night, which made me realize my first experience receiving a life coaching session at the American Family Dreambank was an experience worth having. I likely wouldn't have gained the perspective Kate provided had I not attended the event, and I know that would have left me with little direction for my personal development. I know if I actively apply the advice Kate provided me I will be better prepared to further my success, which also means the Dreambank will have succeeded in their objective. In other words, the Dreambank believes if one person wins, we all win, and I'll be more than happy to do what I can to help everyone at the Dreambank chalk up another victory. I sincerely thank Kate and the Dreambank for tonight's experience. This is one event that will definitely stick with me!

Day 114 - Having a Traditional Picnic

I have never had a traditional picnic. This was another one of the events on my "I have never..." list that caught me by surprise when it first came to mind. There are plenty of times I remember packing a lunch and eating outdoors as a child, but I can't recall a single time in my life that I had a traditional picnic. By that I mean a picnic with a woven basket and a blanket in the grass on a beautiful day. I don't know why, but it just hasn't happened up to this point in my life. As a result, I made plans to head to one of Madison's many parks with Rachael this evening. After a long three-day weekend, the decision would prove a perfect way to unwind in the final hours of a wonderful early September day.

My first traditional picnic began with a quick effort to throw together a meal after getting home from work this evening. After a quick stop at the grocery store, I had enough supplies to throw together a simple dinner of sandwiches, some vegetables, some snacks, and, of course, a bottle of wine. With Rachael's help we made quick work of the preparations for the meal and were out the door within minutes of my arrival home. With the dogs in tow, we hit the road to make the brief trip to Brittingham Park in downtown Madison.

All packed up!

Upon arriving at the park, Rachael and I took our time locating a spot in the waning sunlight. With our picnic spot chosen, I took some time to set everything up in the grass, which resulted in us realizing we forgot a wine bottle opener in our earlier haste to prepare the picnic basket. Fortunately, the neighborhood around the park was stirring with the activity of some welcoming and helpful residents that were happy to spot us a wine bottle opener for a few minutes. In turn, we cracked our bottle of wine open and prepared for our lakeside dinner at my first traditional picnic.

The setup

The evening meal was everything I had hoped it would be. While I was distracted by some issues with my camera for a portion of the picnic, the perfect weather, the beautiful scenery, a pair of cooperative dogs, and the company of my wonderful girlfriend made for a relaxing and tranquil experience. As we worked our way through our meal, the evening quietly transitioned into sunset, leaving us surrounded by the burgeoning sounds of night. As I took time to take in the setting around us, I couldn't help but feel we had chosen the ideal time and place for my first traditional picnic. It nearly impossible to find anything about the evening that could be better, which, in a way, made me happy I had waited so long to gain the experience. This day, in this place, with this company will make the memories of my first traditional picnic stick with me for a long time. I couldn't ask for anything more.

My company

Eventually, the fading light and the cooling air lead Rachael, Buddy, Baxter, and I to call it a night, pack up our things, and head back home. Upon arriving back at our house, it was clear the picnic had put all of us in comfortable, calm state. As a result, the rest of the evening wound down quickly, with lingering fatigue from a busy weekend and tomorrow's obligations calling us to sleep earlier than usual for a Tuesday night. As I prepared to settle in for the night, I thought about the effects of starting an evening with an event as relaxing as a picnic. Although it was a simple thing to do, it just made the rest of the night seem a little bit better. I didn't feel exhausted, I wasn't worried about what tomorrow's workday would bring, and I wasn't finding it hard to get to sleep. I was good. Just good... and that alone made this experience worth it.

The sunset on our way out of the park

Day 113 - Attending a Renaissance Fair

I have never been to a Renaissance fair. While this wasn’t something that has ever been on the top of my “to-do” list, the time and effort people put into escaping to a time long since past has always been something that intrigued me. As a result, I thought attending a Renaissance fair during my “I have never...” year would be a good use of my time. I figured at minimum I would gain a unique experience from an uncommon event, and at most I might even gain some perspective as to why people put such effort into participating in what boils down to an adult version of playing dress up and pretend. With knowledge such events usually only take place in the summer this far north, I knew my opportunity to experience a Renaissance festival this year was fading fast. In turn, I made plans to attend the state’s largest Renaissance fair today, which happened to be the last day of the fair’s season.

The entrance

Although I thought it would be difficult to recruit people to tag along for the nearly two hour trip to the Renaissance fair, I was happy to find Rachael and our friend Allison were more than happy to tag along. After making the trip to the Bristol Renaissance Fair grounds, we worked our way inside and started plotting our course for the day’s events. Upon entering the grounds I immediately took stock of our surroundings. Around us large groups of people shuffled down gravel walkways between rows of small connected buildings with facades intended to make them appear as older European structures. Before us a bearded, disheveled man stood on a barrel wearing a large canvas sack with the words “Mud Show” written on the front. As I looked closer at the crowd around us I saw a mixture of people in plain, modern clothes and people in Renaissance era costume gear ranging from mildly authentic to purely fictional gear a la Lord of the Rings and Dungeons and Dragons. Although the whole scene was a bit gaudy, it maintained a certain charm. Additionally, it was clear the people around us were having a good time experiencing the fair and wandering the grounds, which made it difficult scoff at those that were fully engaged in the event.

The crowd

After a brief pause to gather our bearings, Allison, Rachael, and I walked down the Mud Show, which was moments away from starting. Over the next 30 minutes we watched as a troop of three hilarious actors worked over the crowd and got unbelievably muddy for the sake of a few extra tips from the crowd. To my surprise, the show was much more vulgar and suggestive than I had expected. While none of the actors crossed into outright inappropriate behavior, their comments and actions were certainly enough to be defined as risqué, which made the show all the more humorous.

Ultimately, the show ended with a final display of muddy mayhem, which prompted the three of us to cross the fairgrounds in search of a beer and a forthcoming falconry show. After successful obtaining the former, we proceeding to the jousting grounds where a man and a woman were already in the middle of giving the falconry demonstration. We watched on as the duo performed a series of actions using trained hawks, training decoys, and bits of meat to show the capabilities of the birds. Once that demonstration was complete, the man proceeded to unveil a falcon, which proceeded to dazzle the crowd with its speed and precision in the air. The entire performance was remarkable and highly entertaining, which made me glad we found time to fit it in.

The falcon strike

With the falconry demonstration complete, we took back to the Renaissance fair grounds to wander a bit more. As we walked we encountered small booths and open shops selling everything from costumer gear to jewelry and home goods. The only consistent theme from one store to the next was a focus on the Renaissance and the mystic, which appeared in the designs on goods of all sorts. After grabbing another drink we made our way back to the jousting grounds to catch the Queen’s Joust, which was a predetermined jousting match between four competitors. Once again, the actors on the field did their best to encourage crowd participation as they battled for victory in a series of dexterity and combat challenges. Although it was entertaining, the weak blows and feigned falls left something to be desired. Of course, I realized the act was directed toward a younger crowd, but a little more authenticity couldn’t have hurt the performance. Ultimately, the jousting tournament ended with a predictable winner (the good guy), which led to a challenge from the remaining competitors for another joust “to the death” later that day.

Minstrel music...

...and Renaissance garb

The joust!

After deciding our first jousting experience was enough for the day, we worked our way back to the center of the fairgrounds to catch a little music before making a final stop at the fire whip show. Stated plainly, this was an awesome way to wrap up the day. The show was comprised of one man and a series of whips that he used to demonstrate various techniques. The man’s speed, skill, and accuracy with each whip he brandished were simply incredible. Over a period of roughly 30 minutes, the man used a variety of leather and chain whips to created patterns in the air, sweep supports out from under objects without disturbing the objects resting upon them, destroy full cans of soda, and, finally, perform a demonstration with a flaming whip. The reaction of the flame to the whip’s movement at or above the speed of sound was unbelievable. Seriously, watching this guy was an amazing experience that I wish we have been able to see more than once.

At the end of the fire whip performance Allison, Rachael, and I made one final trip through an unexplored part of the fairgrounds before calling it a day and starting the trip home. Although I didn’t know what to expect going into my first experience at a Renaissance fair, the event was definitely worth the trip. The day flew by as we wandered the fairgrounds and experienced the variety of unique and entertaining shows put on by the Renaissance fair crew. After today’s experience, I can honestly say I would go to a Renaissance fair again, which is a surprising conclusion to draw considering my initial assumptions about the event. It was a good time with a group of people that was out to make the best of the final days of summer, and that’s something I can get behind. 

Oh, and I ate a massive turkey leg.

Day 112 - Skydiving

I have never been skydiving. This is one of those experiences I have always thought about doing, but I never figured I would act on. After all, my interest in skydiving was little more than a minor fascination with a hint of curiosity, so the idea of jumping out of a plane to satisfy those thoughts seemed a little extreme. That stated, I always knew if I was given the right motivation and the right opportunity I would act on skydiving. It just so happens the concept of trying something new every day and the realization that quite a few of my friends wanted to give skydiving a try fit both of those criteria. As a result, I put together a group and made plans to jump out of a plane this afternoon. While I expected the experience to be thrilling, I had no idea I would walk away with a renewed sense of perspective on my journey and a new outlook on life.

The welcome sign

Like several other events I have encountered in my “I have never...” year, today’s experience leaves me at a loss for words. I know I could take the time walking through the actions we took before, during, and after my first skydive, but I know those efforts could never fully explain what it felt like to look down over the earth from the outside of a plane nearly three miles in the air; I know my words could never explain the feeling of free fall from 14,000 feet above the ground; and I know could never find the correct words to explain the feeling of floating between towering puffs of white clouds on a parachute descent back to the earth. I will simply say this, looking down at the earth standing before an open door of a plane is breathtaking, leaping into the open air at 14,000 feet is equally frightening and liberating, and the feeling of touching back down on the ground after it is all said and done is exhilarating. Until today, I had never experienced something that spans intensity and beauty in one arch. I had never felt in one moment equal sensations of outright disbelief, swelling disquiet, and overwhelming euphoria. While I was more than nervous before my jump, peering over the side of that plane caused all of my fear to melt away as all of these emotions rushed in.  It was just me, the sky, and fate, and just before we jumped I met a sudden and unexpected acceptance with those facts. Stated plainly, the experience bordered on spiritual.

On the way to board...

Taking off...

...and looking down over the world in awe.

While in free fall I found it hard to take my eyes off of the scenery below us. I could see for miles over the terrain. White clouds rolled through the hazy summer sky far above green forests, yellow fields of grass, and lakes glittering in the sunlight. As I fell closer to the ground a circular rainbow appeared in the nearest clouds, which persisted until we met their peaks in our descent. I was stunned by the perspective, which made my nearly minute of free fall seem to pass in a matter of seconds. With my instructor inevitably pulling the ripcord for our parachute, we began the rest of our descent floating freely over the ground under a canopy of air. Our track through the air sent us turning over fields, ales, and roads far below. With nothing more than a harness holding me from the ground, the experience reminded me of my earlier adventure hang gliding. In my mind I could only think this was likely the closest to free flight I will ever know, and it was amazing.

In free fall

Taking it all in

Pulling the 'chute

Eventually, we coasted to the ground as we continued our journey back to earth. Upon landing, a sudden rush of excitement consumed me. My jubilance erupted into laughter as I climbed to my feet and looked over my surroundings. After a quick interview from the diver that had recorded my trip, I made my way back to the rest of my group waiting off of the airstrip grounds. Still in disbelief, tried to recount my experience to the best of my ability, but I continually found myself landing back at one statement, “Incredible... It was just incredible.” I knew in my mind there was more to it than that, but I couldn’t find the words to say it. Inside I felt rejuvenated. I felt renewed. I felt amazing.

Almost grounded

Landing!

My instructor and me

Those initial feelings didn’t make much sense to me until I had some time to reflect on my experience. In the moments of silence on the ride home I recalled the individual moments that composed my first skydiving experience. Putting them together, I thought about how many new experiences and feelings I gained from taking that jump out of a plane. Although a part of me was making sure I was aware of exactly how crazy the whole idea truly is, those moments inspired a renewed perspective on my “I have never...” journey. It is likely I never would have had today’s experience if it wasn’t for my ridiculous goal of taking on 365 new things my life, and now I realize I likely would have missed one of the most enlightening events I have experienced to date if I never pursued that goal. I faced fear, climbed to the heavens, and jumped out of a plane.

I jumped out of a plane.

The sights I saw, the feelings I felt, and the emotions that gripped me were unlike anything I have known, and that says a lot about what this journey means. From that I can only conclude that this is what my life, what living, should be. Our stories are ours to tell, and I intend to tell a good one. I don’t know where this whole thing will lead me, but today’s experience really made me think about what is possible. With a renewed resolve to follow through on my objectives I intend to make the most of every moment; to go the places people don’t go, to see the things that people don’t see, to discover the experiences left undiscovered, and to live without fear. If I’ve learned anything from this journey thus far, it’s that it takes those things to truly live, and that’s exactly what I intend to do.

Success!