Five Musical Accomplishments

My mother could play the piano and the harmonica by ear, which I couldn't. On the other hand, I have:

1) Sung solos in church
2) Sung in local opera
3) Established and led a women's chorus
4) Composed Christmas carols
5) Led caroling groups

Another Five Things

As the New Year approaches and the memory of my mother berates me with everything that I haven't accomplished in my life, I console myself with lists of what I have done:

1) I earned a Ph.D. in a prestigious field.
2) I was a city-wide PTA president for two years.
3) I taught on the college level for twenty-some years.
4) I made a run for the city school board.
5) I wrote a year's worth of an influential newsletter for a teachers' union.

And I write a blog.

Five More Things

My desk has never been as neat and tidy as my mother's was. On the other hand:

1) I have written poetry, short stories, novels, and plays
2) I have edited newsletters and literary publications
3) I have published in local newspapers and magazines
4) I have composed songs and a children's opera
5) I have established Fiorella on line

Five Things

I've never been the housekeeper my mother was. On the other hand:

1) I drive--and my car is in my own name.

2) I designed the house Husband and I live in.

3) I have friends who are French, British, India Indian, and--lo and behold--Canadian.

4) I've visited Mexico, England, and Scotland.

5) I scored a good maid.