I am grateful to have spent my birthday week in Boston with my mom. We did some great touristy things like attending an amazing Red Sox game (they won!), going to the John F Kennedy museum, taking a tasting tour in the North End, and visiting the Boston Aquarium (love those penguins). We also explored other fun, less-well-known areas of Boston and celebrated daily. One of our favorite discoveries was the SOWA market—a market filled with artisans and amazing food trucks!
My mom is quite an inspiration and reminds me daily to make the most out of life. Among the many lessons I’ve learned from her are:
- If you’re passionate about your career, you won’t be burnt out when it comes time to enjoy retirement. My mom was a first-grade teacher. She was passionate about her job but also did a great job focusing on family and fun. I still remember her retirement party and how much she loved her job until the day she retired. It is so worth it to find passion in your career!
- Never stop learning. My mom is now over 80 and she takes adult education classes at Malloy College in New York. They have a special program for seniors where they bring in weekly guest speakers. She goes with her friends so they get “girlfriend” time too. Learning keeps us refreshed and recharged!
- Volunteering, friends, and travel keep you young. My mom volunteers once a week at the local hospital, so she still gets to make a difference in others’ lives. She plays bridge and mahjong weekly and is involved in lots of social events, including the Red Hats. Connection is key at every age! My mom is also a big traveler and I probably get my travel bug from her.
If you are looking to have a fun, spirited life, I believe making a difference in the world, connecting with others, and travel are key ingredients (and you don’t have to wait for retirement to add these things to your life). It works for my mom!
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