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Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, I sit by a bucket.

There's never much in that bucket in Faner, except on days when it rains. On those days, the maintenance-deferring bucket does its duty.

For two days a week, the white bucket screams to be kicked, which got me thinking about a bucket list. I'm not talking about the one with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman. Instead, I've thought up a local rendition of the recent movie.

It's the kick the bucket list, southern Illinois style. Take it from a departing senior. If you're on your way out, make sure your list is checked top to bottom.

If you're new to the school, you've got plenty of time. Here's numbers 10-6. Next week, I'll bring you 5-1.

10. Hit up a house party

Not the nice kind either. I'm talking about the ones in the dirty basement that go on six days a week. The addresses change every year, but they live on. They aren't necessarily fun. You'll probably have a miserable time. However, it's a must-have experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for a broom and plumbing that works.

9. Keep it local

It's easy to fall in the trap of shopping at Wal-Mart and eating at chaineries. There's a lot of southern Illinois flavor you don't want to miss. Check out some local

eating holes, such as Spinoni's, Mary Lou's and Italian Village. Shop around, too. Don't forget about the Neighborhood Co-op for fresh groceries or QQ Bubble Tea for a treat.

8. Get some maroon

So many people have never been to a sporting event. Are you kidding me? Even if you don't like sports, check out a couple games and matches. Some weekends in November you can catch a basketball game, football game and volleyball match right after the other.

7. Stay for a summer

Come May, everyone jets from Carbondale like its spreading hemorrhoids. Take off your shoes and stay awhile. The atmosphere is laid back and there's a ton to do (more on this next week). Go to a sunset concert, hang at the Spillway or catch a Miner's game.

6. Don't live at the bars, but visit them

Don't be that guy who has his own seat at the watering hole. But make sure to at least check out the bar scene. Even if you don't drink, there's plenty to keep you occupied.

Eat some popcorn at Pinch or Sidetrax, take in a show at Copper or play pool at Gatsby's or Callahan's.

Until next week, start on the list.

Wilson is a senior studying journalism.

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