Things to do on Earth

Like the Boston list (which is hereby incorporated), except on a larger scale. I’m just listing specifics, excluding obvious generic things like world travel and debachery. This is for my own reference, as it cheers me up to read a list of specific things I’d still like to do, but I figured I’d make it public in case anybody that knows me is interested or if some random person is looking for reasons to not jump off the bridge. Suggestions welcome.

  1. Ride across the country on the old Transcontinental Railroad route. During period of maintenance, Amtrak will occasionally reroute the California Zephyr over the original northern route through Wyoming. It’s apparently an inspiring trip both in terms of the nature, and in seeing what was accomplished by men with picks and shovels. Remember to bring along a copy of Nothing Like it in the World, by Stephen Ambrose. Done
  2. Learn group theory. God liked it enough to base physics on it; maybe I should learn it.
  3. Fly a small airplane across the country. No better way to see the country than from 3000 feet above the ground. Take the middle route.
  4. Take a ship across the Atlantic. Preferably a real boat, like a freighter. You can rent out empty space on container ships these days, as automatation has rendered much of the originally intended crew unnecessary.
  5. See the Panama Canal.
  6. Ride a motorcycle across the country. Take the southern route.
  7. Buy a telescope and learn some astronomy. I’m intentionally saving this for when I’m older and need a hobby.
  8. Finish my commercial/instrument pilot rating.
  9. Learn how to brew beer. I can’t believe I haven’t already done this one. Right up my alley for so many reasons.
  10. Get a PhD. This is a poorly concieved holdover from my childhood, and is subject to removal at a moment’s notice. I include it here as the only one I have a chance of checking off in the near future.
  11. Start a company. Another tough one. Need not have more than one employee.
  12. Visit the Deep South. While it still has a distinct culture. Eat at mom and pop BBQ shacks in the middle of nowhere. Best combined with #6.
  13. Learn to surf. At least try it once.