"My name is Charlotte Russe. I came by autobus. I am your French tutor. But you are a chien! A dog! Well, never mind. I have taught plenty of rats in my time. I can certainly teach a dog."

- Ooooh, la la, Max in Love
by Maira Kalman

Funny how one thing like a book, or a fragrance, or a line from a movie, can make you travel back in time. Every time I see the cover of this book, I am instantly transported to bedtime with my daughter when she was a toddler.This is a quirky story about Max Stravinsky, a dog poet from New York, was the introduction of the French language into my daughter's life. As we read, I would create a different voice (in a kooky french accent) for every character and she would giggle uncontrollably. There was a few months in which she would have me read this book to her every single night.

Now my daughter is much older and knows the book by heart.

These answers will probably change over time...then again, they might not.

Attend a Black Tie New Year's Eve Party in New York
I think the movie, "When Harry Met Sally" planted the seed in my head for this one. I love how BIG this kind of New Year's Eve celebration is, especially since I live on the West Coast. It would involve a lot of planning, but I believe it can definitely be accomplished before I kick it.

Have an authentic and deep, loving relationship with a fabulous man.
This makes the list because I'm a romantic to the very core. Dont' get me wrong...I am having a wonderful time living my life with just my daughter right now. At the same time, I'm looking forward to someone spectacular to share my life with. To have that kind of deep, long-lasting companionship would be an incredible experience.

Travel the world with my daughter.
I have barely traveled in my 37 years on this earth and I'd like to change that. Just the few places I've been has had such a profound effect on my perspective, so I can only imagine how my daughter would respond to it. I would love to just watch her face as she witnesses foreign lands for the first time.

Climb the Eiffel Tower
When I say, "climb" I mean take the stairs. Why, you ask? Well, why not? Anyone can take the elevators. I want to walk up and look out. Even. though. I. am. terrified. of. heights.

Yikes!

Be with someone while they "cross over"
I think this makes the list because I have a feeling I could be with someone while they die and make it quite comfortable for them, while also being quite comfortable myself. The spirit's departure would be oddly beautiful and I'd love to celebrate that cross-over with someone dear to me, if I get the chance.