Life as a CrazyMimi

Three years and a few months ago, my granddaughter Emily was turning eight.   She was also learning about American Girl dolls.  She wanted one of these Oh So Expensive dolls so badly  that I decided, no matter the cost, that I would find a way to get her one.  I mean, what are Mimi's for, right??  I personally think a Mimi's primary job is to be there for her Punkins when they need her, or when there is something that is so desperately wanted that it melts my heart seeing their desire.  Emily was sleeping with the American Girl catalog!   I think that classified this as a deeply desired item!  Let me say right here and now that I don't want to take any joy away from a parent, but parents are responsible for day to day needs. They also have other children to consider.  Soooo...here's where Mimis and Pops  come in!   A date was arranged, reservations made in the bistro, cousins, great grandmother and great aunt loaded into my car, and we headed to Tyson's Corner,  V

Let me begin by setting the stage.... My dining room, December 31st, 2015. People present--Myself, Hubby Troy, Son Ryan, Daughter-In-Law Tabitha, Cousin Crystal (a very close cousin), and my 5 VA Punkins. Occasion--Our Boothe Christmas celebration I say "I have an announcement to make!" Looks of concern, amusement, and most of all fear from my family.  Yes, they know me! Troy looks at Ryan and says "How do you feel about a little brother?" There is some choking, and some nervous laughter....then a LOT of laughter! After everyone realizes that this is NOT what my announcement is, I proceed to tell my family my big announcement. Since I turn 59 on my upcoming birthday in March, I have made a 60 before 60 list. A bucket list. And I want to complete it before I turn 60 in March of 2017. While I am not making my entire list known to everyone, (there has to be some mystery, right?) I am letting some items be known.  For instance, as strange as this may seem