Stephen and I had a book signing this week. We were approached by individuals that were badly shaken by our current economy. They were both fearful of their future, but hopeful that our current administration might set things right again. We talked about all the changes that have occurred in the last six months that have impacted our lives. In reality, we have little or no control over many of these external forces.
When we asked individuals more about their personal lives, we heard interesting stories of changes they have made to improve the quality of their lives. One couple on a fixed income has started an E-Bay business to produce additional income. They are having fun with this business, and would not have dreamed of operating their own small business if the economic times were better. Another woman has started consulting and nonprofit work in her 'secondment.' Her life is full and happy. Another individual shared that they have always wanted to write a book. We encouraged her to pursue her dream.
Our message was about 'What's Next In Your Life' that can lead to fulfillment. How can you turn your past successes into significance or simply weather the storm with more grace and control? Ask yourself about changes that would improve the quality of your life. We have more control than you might think. Do it today!
Joan & Stephen
Friday, January 23, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Boomerang!
'Boomerang' is such an interesting word. Remember those wooden boomerangs from Australia that we played with as kids. Over the weekend, I heard a news commentator refer to recent college graduates as 'boomerangs' since 50% of them are living with their parents following college. So much for that 'empty nest' phenomenon which was supposed to occur after our kids left for college.
For retiring boomers, there is something called the 'boomerang year.' Simply stated, it is a year after retirement that is spent doing something unrelated to the work that they have never done before. This might involve travel, leisure or study. Consider it a sabbatical of sorts where you are spending time doing exactly what you have always wanted to do without the usual restraints. How healthy to clear our heads, hearts and bodies!
It is difficult to envision all that needs to happen for the 'rest of our lives.' I prefer to take life a chapter at a time. However, coming out of 30-40 years of traditional employment, a 'boomerang' experience might be just what is needed to get started. It offers a time to 'get in touch with self' and reflect on life's priorities. Being in a totally new 'space' frees a person to see the possibilities without blinders. If you can afford the time off, consider what 'boomerang' experience might await you. Find your purpose for the future through this cleansing and awakening time. Wishing you a great boomerang experience!
Stephen & Joan
For retiring boomers, there is something called the 'boomerang year.' Simply stated, it is a year after retirement that is spent doing something unrelated to the work that they have never done before. This might involve travel, leisure or study. Consider it a sabbatical of sorts where you are spending time doing exactly what you have always wanted to do without the usual restraints. How healthy to clear our heads, hearts and bodies!
It is difficult to envision all that needs to happen for the 'rest of our lives.' I prefer to take life a chapter at a time. However, coming out of 30-40 years of traditional employment, a 'boomerang' experience might be just what is needed to get started. It offers a time to 'get in touch with self' and reflect on life's priorities. Being in a totally new 'space' frees a person to see the possibilities without blinders. If you can afford the time off, consider what 'boomerang' experience might await you. Find your purpose for the future through this cleansing and awakening time. Wishing you a great boomerang experience!
Stephen & Joan
Monday, January 5, 2009
Holidays in Europe
Hope that all of you had Happy Holidays with family and friends. In our last blog, we mentioned our plans to spend Christmas and New Years in Venice, Vienna and Prague. We have been fortunate to travel abroad a lot in the past, but had not spent a Christmas in Europe. My sister, her husband, his brother, my sons (Derek & Blake), Derek's fiance, Lesley, joined Stephen and I for this holiday adventure.
We loved the Christmas markets and lights everywhere we went. Likewise, we weren't disappointed with the hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts or ginger bread. Honestly, we were shocked with all the Christmas decorations (even in small little villages), and music filling the cathedrals, concern halls, and plazas. Truly, the Christmas spirit was alive and well in each of these cities. Our only negative was the cold which was easily remedied by more of that hot mulled wine.
Europe is interesting in the winter with few tourists, especially American tourists. Sightseeing was more enjoyable with few or no lines. We mixed more with local people with the absence of throngs of tourists. We felt more connected with the people and local cultures.
Trying to plan, shop and prepare a Christmas feast in Austria was a challenge since we didn't know where to find the needed foods and wines. We were successful in finding two fresh turkeys, and most of the needed ingredients. Our substitute ingredients served to enhance our traditional dishes. We opted to substitute ginger bread and strudel for American pies. Cooking in an Austrian kitchen (in a small apartment) required converting oven temperatures, and being creative with limited bowls, pans and utensils. We borrowed a carving knife for the turkey from our hotel. All in all, we had a fabulous trip and feast on Christmas Day. The fireworks in Prague on New Year's Eve created a lifetime memory. We agreed that these holidays won't easily be forgotten.
Wishing you all a prosperous and joyous 2009! Let's hope that we can overcome the challenges we are currently facing. Best wishes to all of you!
Joan & Stephen
We loved the Christmas markets and lights everywhere we went. Likewise, we weren't disappointed with the hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts or ginger bread. Honestly, we were shocked with all the Christmas decorations (even in small little villages), and music filling the cathedrals, concern halls, and plazas. Truly, the Christmas spirit was alive and well in each of these cities. Our only negative was the cold which was easily remedied by more of that hot mulled wine.
Europe is interesting in the winter with few tourists, especially American tourists. Sightseeing was more enjoyable with few or no lines. We mixed more with local people with the absence of throngs of tourists. We felt more connected with the people and local cultures.
Trying to plan, shop and prepare a Christmas feast in Austria was a challenge since we didn't know where to find the needed foods and wines. We were successful in finding two fresh turkeys, and most of the needed ingredients. Our substitute ingredients served to enhance our traditional dishes. We opted to substitute ginger bread and strudel for American pies. Cooking in an Austrian kitchen (in a small apartment) required converting oven temperatures, and being creative with limited bowls, pans and utensils. We borrowed a carving knife for the turkey from our hotel. All in all, we had a fabulous trip and feast on Christmas Day. The fireworks in Prague on New Year's Eve created a lifetime memory. We agreed that these holidays won't easily be forgotten.
Wishing you all a prosperous and joyous 2009! Let's hope that we can overcome the challenges we are currently facing. Best wishes to all of you!
Joan & Stephen
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