One of my sisters, who just turned 24 the other day, tells me that her motto is "do something that scares me just a little every day." It's not that she continually puts herself in harm's way; she simply makes it a point to step out of her comfort zone on a daily basis. I like this and, as her older and tamer sister, have been trying to adopt some of her balls to the wall attitude.
So, I have compiled a list of activities in San Francisco that might make the average Jane a little bit uneasy and a lot proud to have tried:
1. Boxing - There's nothing more liberating than punching a body bag, trust me on this one. My personal preference is
Third Street Boxing Gym in the Dogpatch, and I plan on signing up soon.
2. Sailing - If sailing lessons aren't you're thing, sign up for a sailing tour instead. Both are offered at
San Francisco Sailing Co, located at Pier 39. Technically, I can cross this one off my list, because I do have a valid boat license in Australia.
Proof:
3. Cooking classes at Williams-Sonoma in Union Square - Pop in and grab one of their monthly schedules of technique classes and demonstrations. It looks social, and I think you get to eat the finished product!
4. Events of all kinds - Check
Eventbrite for networking events, baseball watching events, fashion events, wine tasting events, fitness events... I really could keep going. Heck, you could even create your own event! This is probably one of my favorite things on the internet to peruse right now. I tend to go to these events during the week, when my boyfriend is at work and my friends are busy bees or in Tahoe on skis.
5. Get cultured - Visit the SFMOMA, de Young, or Conservatory of Flowers on a free Tuesday. Yep, admission is free every first Tuesday of the month.
6. Volunteer -
The San Francisco Education Fund is always looking for public school volunteers, but you can also volunteer at your community garden, the
American Red Cross, or
Pets Unlimited. Look around for something that suits your interests.
7. Take MUNI - For those of you who never get anywhere without your car, park it for the week. Get a Clipper card or have $2 on hand, and sit back to watch the entertainment that is public transportation. Not only will you save money on parking fees, you'll come home with some great stories. Better yet, tell your stories to @munidiaries on Twitter.
8. Donate - Clean out your closet. Stop hoarding your aerobic socks and puff-paint sweatshirts. There are plenty of people out there who attend ugly sweater parties and love to dress up in this kind of stuff. If you aren't using it, pass it on. Don't forget to get a donation receipt to you can write it off come tax time!
9. Sport a new hair-do - This is a continuation of #8. Donate your hair. All you need is 10 inches of extra length, but make sure that your hair has not been dyed.
Locks of Love is where my youngest sister and I have sent our pony tails. Even though mailing a pony tail feels creepy, it is such a beautiful gift for a child who has lost their hair to illness.
10. Try a vegan meal. I'm not suggesting that you change your diet completely, but varying what you eat can open your eyes to new, healthy options that you can incorporate into your usual meals. Since college, I've been a fan of Smart Balance Buttery Spreads. My favorite is the one made with extra virgin olive oil. It has omega-3s and 50% of your daily value of Vitamin D per serving.
Maybe I haven't covered anything too intimidating, so give me your suggestions, and I'll add 'em to the list!
