Christmas brings with it traditions from years past coupled with new possibilities. This year we have decided to spend the holidays in Europe with my sister, brother-in-law, brother-in-law's brother, my two sons (Derek & Blake), and Derek's fiance, Lesley. Tomorrow, we leave for the first leg of the trip in Venice. After a six night stay(and wading through the flood waters), we fly on to Vienna.
Vienna is filled with Christmas markets, gingerbread, hot mulled wine, and Mozart concerts in many of the churches as well as concert halls. We have declared that no one can bring recipes or gifts from the US. We are going to create an Austrian Christmas complete with a decorated tree and Christmas dinner. The eight of us will work together to determine what menu is typical, then shop and cook to create a fine meal. The adventure and romance of this Xmas will create a lasting memory in years to come.
On December 29th, we travel on to Prague for New Years. The Czech Republic promises to have a great New Year's celebration. Sharing this trip with loved ones makes it even more special. Hope that your holidays are filled with loving family, fun traditions, and new adventures. Wishing you peace and good health in 2009!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
It's the best of times ... it's the worst of times
Stephen and I were talking about the extreme swings in the stock market coupled with the terrorist attack in India. Our news today is filled with grim and frightening facts. The media goes so far as to predict a horrible day in the markets before the opening bell. You have to wonder, how much of this is self-fulfilling prophecy? You might also question, how much fear can the media drive? Our days shouldn't be clouded with negative thoughts and fear.
Stephen is reading Follett's World Without End (sequel to Pillars of the Earth). I just finished The Autobiography of King Henry VIII. If you have read these books, or information about these times, you must realize that we've always lived in turbulent times. Yes, it sometimes is greater, and occasionally better. Still, we have survived these challenging periods generation after generation. We are survivors!
We need faith in our resourcefulness and resiliency. As Obama faces the challenges of a poor economy, two wars, and huge educational and health care issues, I feel certain that he will find strength knowing that his predecessors were successful in resurrecting the health of our great nation through their superb leadership. Just think about Lincoln's challenges or those of Truman. Great leaders, and great people, will overcome. Let's work positively together for a better tomorrow!
Joan
Stephen is reading Follett's World Without End (sequel to Pillars of the Earth). I just finished The Autobiography of King Henry VIII. If you have read these books, or information about these times, you must realize that we've always lived in turbulent times. Yes, it sometimes is greater, and occasionally better. Still, we have survived these challenging periods generation after generation. We are survivors!
We need faith in our resourcefulness and resiliency. As Obama faces the challenges of a poor economy, two wars, and huge educational and health care issues, I feel certain that he will find strength knowing that his predecessors were successful in resurrecting the health of our great nation through their superb leadership. Just think about Lincoln's challenges or those of Truman. Great leaders, and great people, will overcome. Let's work positively together for a better tomorrow!
Joan
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thanksgiving
Even during times of economic uncertainty, we have so much to be thankful for. Spending special time with relatives and friends results in warmth and stability. Preparing special foods for loved ones provides nurturing during stressful times. The simple connection with others gives us true meaning and purpose.
Many are suffering during these chaotic times. Reaching out to those less fortunate not only lends a helping hand, but makes us feel good about ourselves. Bringing gifts for a family of 11 will be our best 'gift' of the season. Knowing that a family in need will have happy holidays puts a smile on our face.
Let's take the time to make the simple connects with one another. Together we can be strong, and overcome any adversity. Having a simpler life with fewer 'things' can actually improve the quality of our lives. Reach out today to positively impact someone's life!
Joan
Many are suffering during these chaotic times. Reaching out to those less fortunate not only lends a helping hand, but makes us feel good about ourselves. Bringing gifts for a family of 11 will be our best 'gift' of the season. Knowing that a family in need will have happy holidays puts a smile on our face.
Let's take the time to make the simple connects with one another. Together we can be strong, and overcome any adversity. Having a simpler life with fewer 'things' can actually improve the quality of our lives. Reach out today to positively impact someone's life!
Joan
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Media Scare
In the last month, we've been interviewed by MarketWatch.com, Forbes.com, Time.com, NPR, and the St. Louis Pioneer Dispatch. Interestingly, all of them were interested in how the current economic crisis will impact retiring baby boomers. We'll be the first to admit that target dates for retirement and/or the need to work 'after retirement' looks different with the loss of 30-50% in retirement portfolios.
Having recognized that there may be more financial drivers to work longer, boomers still have choices to make. They have transferrable skills that can be applied to other careers, work environments or entrepreneurial opportunities. In other words, don't feel trapped. Find work that provides more meaning and satisfaction.
Yes, you'll need to spend some time thinking through what work 'fits' best for you. Also, you'll need to update your resume and interviewing skills. There are life/career coaches, books, and websites like ours, www.WhatsNextInYourLife.com, that can help. Seek the help you need to establish a more fulfilling, future plan for your life. Start today for a better tomorrow!
Joan & Stephen
Having recognized that there may be more financial drivers to work longer, boomers still have choices to make. They have transferrable skills that can be applied to other careers, work environments or entrepreneurial opportunities. In other words, don't feel trapped. Find work that provides more meaning and satisfaction.
Yes, you'll need to spend some time thinking through what work 'fits' best for you. Also, you'll need to update your resume and interviewing skills. There are life/career coaches, books, and websites like ours, www.WhatsNextInYourLife.com, that can help. Seek the help you need to establish a more fulfilling, future plan for your life. Start today for a better tomorrow!
Joan & Stephen
Monday, November 10, 2008
E#xpanded Family
Wow, what a weekend. My eldest son, Derek, and his girlfriend, Lesley, came to Destin for a visit. They have been discussing marriage for some time. Derek called on Tuesday to say that a FedEx package would arrive on Thursday morning. I cancelled my workout to make sure I didn't miss the delivery person. Yes, a beautiful diamond ring arrived.
On Saturday, Derek put the ring in his pocket trying to find the right moment to pop the question. We attended the Taste of the Beach event at Seaside which involved lots of people, wine and food. When we came back mid-afternoon, Lesley wanted to walk on the beach. Yes, the perfect spot to propose as the two of them stared out at the emerald-colored Gulf of Mexico.
My other son (Blake), sister (Barb), and brother-in-law (Bill) joined us for a champagne brunch in Rosemary Beach on Sunday morning. I was filled with joy as we toasted Derek and Lesley's engagement. Lesley is a beautiful, intelligent woman, and a perfect match for Derek. I am filled with love for them, and wish them happiness, health and prosperity for their future together. It will be interesting to see 'What's Next in Their lives.' For me, my love multiplies as our family expands!
On Saturday, Derek put the ring in his pocket trying to find the right moment to pop the question. We attended the Taste of the Beach event at Seaside which involved lots of people, wine and food. When we came back mid-afternoon, Lesley wanted to walk on the beach. Yes, the perfect spot to propose as the two of them stared out at the emerald-colored Gulf of Mexico.
My other son (Blake), sister (Barb), and brother-in-law (Bill) joined us for a champagne brunch in Rosemary Beach on Sunday morning. I was filled with joy as we toasted Derek and Lesley's engagement. Lesley is a beautiful, intelligent woman, and a perfect match for Derek. I am filled with love for them, and wish them happiness, health and prosperity for their future together. It will be interesting to see 'What's Next in Their lives.' For me, my love multiplies as our family expands!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Don't Retire from World Affairs
Don't 'retire' from world affairs. Sure, you may wish for a life of leisure after many years of hard work. Having said that, we live in a global economy where we are co-dependent on other nations and people. Our current banking/credit crisis is just one more reminder of how our economies are interlinked. The potential (probably real) global recession will impact us significantly.
Solutions will also be global in nature. As we talk with others, our common goals should become obvious. Yes, we might approach things differently, but most people agree that we must work to help all people climb Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Let's work to provide food, clothing, housing, and health care for all nations. One of our friends leaves for Haiti to build houses this weekend. Another will fly to India in 10 days to help impoverished women set up self-supporting businesses.
Each of us will be challenged to find a way to help. Together, we can make the seemingly impossible happen. How can you help?
Joan & Stephen
Solutions will also be global in nature. As we talk with others, our common goals should become obvious. Yes, we might approach things differently, but most people agree that we must work to help all people climb Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Let's work to provide food, clothing, housing, and health care for all nations. One of our friends leaves for Haiti to build houses this weekend. Another will fly to India in 10 days to help impoverished women set up self-supporting businesses.
Each of us will be challenged to find a way to help. Together, we can make the seemingly impossible happen. How can you help?
Joan & Stephen
Friday, October 17, 2008
What's Next in Your Life?
Stephen and I spent most of this week in Kansas City where we had two book signings, gave a talk on 'What's Next In Your Life,' and were interviewed on TV. What amazed me were the number of people that felt this discussion is more important today than ever before. I honestly believed that our message would be lost with all the financial chaos that is surrounding us.
After some reflection, it occurred to me that 'planning life after 50' is positive while providing a sense of control over our lives. As the media continues to fuel economic panic in the American public, people want and need to plan for a brighter future. As we presented, I wanted to empower the audience to take positive steps in their own career and life planning.
I truly believe that we have choices in terms of our work and leisure activities. Even if we have to work longer due to losses in the market, we can do work that aligns well with our passions and interests. Finding a well-aligned job (or volunteer work), will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. We deserve to have 'fun' in the work we do each and every day. Are you planning for your future? What work fits best for you?
After some reflection, it occurred to me that 'planning life after 50' is positive while providing a sense of control over our lives. As the media continues to fuel economic panic in the American public, people want and need to plan for a brighter future. As we presented, I wanted to empower the audience to take positive steps in their own career and life planning.
I truly believe that we have choices in terms of our work and leisure activities. Even if we have to work longer due to losses in the market, we can do work that aligns well with our passions and interests. Finding a well-aligned job (or volunteer work), will lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment. We deserve to have 'fun' in the work we do each and every day. Are you planning for your future? What work fits best for you?
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