Life-Long Learning

So now that the kitchen remodel is well underway and I am not designing, planning and researching, I feel the urge to take on my next project.  The problem is there are just so many things I want to learn about I can't narrow it down.  I figure writing it all down will help me be able to prioritize!

Professionally, I want to get my PHR -Professional in Human Resources- Certification and eventually PMP - Project Management Professional - Certification.  So I need to jump in and actually order the study materials, crack open the books and set a test date.  Ahh deadlines and commitment...two of my very favorite things.


Personally, I have a few areas that I would like to focus on right away.  Taking a photography class and learning how to use my DSLR camera.  I know there are many options, I just can't decide the best path to take.  There are classes offered through the Smithsonian which I think would be totally amazing.  Also classes offered through NOVA Community College.  I'm sure there are also resources on the Internet.  Has anyone taken a actual class or found good tutorials online?  Let me know!

Also, I really want to take a knife skills class.  I can cut, dice and slice - at turtle speed.  We have an amazing set of Wusthofs, and I use them daily.  But I want to be better and faster!  In addition to being better and faster, I would like to not slice and dice my fingers at least once a week.  I will look into finding a class on this in the near future.  I know some are offered at Sur la Table from time to time, any recommendations?

I loved the gift wrapping class that I went to with Lacey at the Paper Source in December.  I will totally be going again this year, but they also have some fun classes this summer.  Both a Summertime Party Invitation Workshop and a Sassy Personal Stationary Girls Night Out in July - hummm decisions decisions.  Anyone want to come with me?

Jo-Ann's recently opened a new super center in Fair Lakes.  It is huge-and much nicer than their last place in Centerville.  They offer classes, and I think I will take the Basic Sewing Class - I know how to sew-just haven't done it in a few years.  I need to make some basic items with my little machine and then consider upgrading down the road.  My plan is to one day (soon) get an embroidery machine so I can monogram everything to high heaven.  But I feel like I need to be consistent with the basics before I go overboard. 

I also need to add some books to my summer reading list.  It may be a good thing for me to get a real library card.  I was so proud of myself for joining the Falls Church Library after going to the farmers market a few weeks ago only to learn that they are not associated with any other library's so I can't download books to my e-reader from them.  PS-did you know you can "check out" downloads for your e-reader and kindle from the library for free - pretty awesome!  

For now, I think I will open up The Lost Symbol.  It's only been sitting on my night stand table for a few months.  Usually covered by Better Homes and Gardens or Southern Living Magazines.  Josh has already read it and after I finish it we are going to go to all the places mentioned in the book-should be an adventure!

What's something that you want to learn more about?