STARS: How I Househop (go to multiple places and homes)

We're in peak party and cookout season. Most weekends you will have several different events and functions going on and of course you can't go to everything. I have been able to attend most events through careful planning and precision. 

I look at the times of each event, the proximity and any overlap or gap. I try to eat heaviest (if there's food) at the first gathering and the next to last gathering (sometimes it's the last). I don't stay longer than 2-3 hours at any place to allow for travel and debriefing. My plan works best of all of the events are in the same city or neighboring cities. If I want to attend something further away, I adjust the time at the previous event and sometimes eat and drink more. 

I have been doing this for over 20 years. For events (including holidays), my personal best is 6 houses(places) per day. It makes for a long day but well worth it when I want to see and be around certain folks. 

STARS: How I Learned How To Swim

I have been blogging for 12 years. By now you all know how country I am if you don't know anything else. 

Growing up we didn't have a pool nor knew really anyone that did and there weren't any waterparks close so we went to the local creek mostly.  It was peaceful, fun and deep. 

I had to learn to swim if I not only wanted to live but but be able to have fun. Also, my mom didn't pay for any fancy swimming lessons and I still learned at the age of 7. 

I went to the creek at least 3-4 times per week during the summer months. My mom would try and go early or even late on a weekday to avoid crowds. I started in shallow waters and worked my way to the deeper areas. I would simply stroke left, then stroke right with my arms and keep moving my legs in an up and down formation. I advise regardless of your method or teacher to not stop moving those legs. They are your lifeline. I also had goggles and a life vest. 

I got really good over the years and did not lose this skillset, even as I traveled to rivers, oceans and pools.  I l started learning how to swim more smoothly by not splashing so much and being more fluid.  I am now 43, soon to be 44 and can still swim well. 

I realize everyone learns differently but my method was very informal, cost effective and it mostly involved good form and reps.