I have fought aging like someone knowing they have to go into ice water and fighting it with all they have. I have finally waded in and am adjusting better than I thought I could. I am 65 and have always been active. Being bi-polar added to a varied interest level has fueled me sometimes to exhaustion. Now, I am finding new ways of still enjoying my interests of crafting and art with my children and grandchildren. This Christmas my daughter, her husband and two sons (20 and 16) came home. Christmas eve we all sat watching TV while my daughter, youngest grandson and myself were in the midst loom-knitting hats! My daughter managed to find a paralyzed, but in a mobile wheelchair, lady while we were shopping who liked her hat and wanted one. So, I have made one and will mail it next week. While showing his work to friends, my grandson has a friend in Alaska requesting a hat from him. I made hats for many ladies at church and have given much away that my husband and I have made throughout the year. The satisfaction we receive from giving has given a new meaning to crafting. I know there are many other avenues I am finding now, but to expand on them would be muting the point. We all need to keep our eyes and options open, because we never know what is around the corner.
Keeping My Options Open by Lil Jernigan
December 31, 2013 by ElderChicks
You’re inspiring me, Lil. Right after I write this, I’m going to pick up a needlepoint project I have literally not touched in over six months. Thanks for the nudge. I love knowing about your grandsons’ participation!
I’ve been retired for 10 years and busy as ever. I took a digital photography class at Uconn in Waterbury, Ct. They have a wonderful program for seniors called OLLI OSHER LIFE LONG LEARNING with over 65 courses to choose from. I started taking pictures of our family reunions after learning how to use the camera. Now i’m scrapbooking. Plus learning Eastern European History to help with my Genealogy to pass down their history to my 4 children and grandchildren. Does anyone have OLLI in their area ?
What a nice way to use your talent. I’m sure the recipients enjoy the hats. I’ve never been successful doing handwork, so I admire people who do. We have an OLLI program here in Chicago at Northwestern University. I have friends in it who love it. I take non credit courses at the University of Chicago that are teacher-led, seminar style, along with many other retirees. There are many opportunities here to keep on learning. I love it!