Retire in Style with Lolita

The year is wrapping up and so I am recalling, reminiscing about my first year of retirement. Special Interests In February I attended an introductory class on scrapbooking. Scrapbooking was interesting but I realized it is not for me at this time anyway. Instead I learned the basics of card making. Since then I have made several birthday, Easter, and Christmas cards. I enjoy putting together shapes, colors and embellishments to create personalized cards. The recipients are usually surprised and impressed with my amateur creations. In this age of e-greeting cards, the real thing is still appreciated. In March I joined the Ridge Meadows Seniors Society. I found two classes that are of special interest to me: Tai Chi and Hawaiian Dancing. Members of both groups are physically active and lively.I may never be as graceful as this young Tai Chi'er but I am pleased I am still able to do the right moves ! The Happy Hula Mamas Last summer I did some container gardening.  Love to...

The beauty of Christmas reminds us of the precious things in life.  Our family, our friends, and our faith. Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful Christmas.

I came to Canada in 1971 and has never returned in time for Christmas. Circumstances and financial resources did not allow me to spend the Christmas holidays in the land of my birth. Sadly, now that I have time and finances,  I have lost the interest to visit at Christmas time. My brother, the only sibling left in the Philippines passed away last year in May.  What would Christmas homecoming be without him. After forty Christmases, the nostalgia of Christmas as I remember it during my younger days remain. Despite differences in traditions and celebrations, the message remains the same. Peace, love, and joy. A time to remember and be thankful for the precious things in life. Our family. our friends, and our faith.

This month I am celebrating my first full year of retirement from gainful employment.  Hello Pension ! With some planning, some luck, and a continued zest for life, the first year of retirement went well. We cannot stop the aging process, might as well enjoy it !