All Posts By 60plus&lovinglife

Embracing Peace: Why Friendship Drama Becomes Less Appealing as We Age

As we journey through life, our priorities shift, and our perspectives evolve. One significant change many of us experience as we reach a certain age is a growing aversion to the drama often associated with some friendships.

I know that personally I ensure that if someone brings overwhelming stress to my table, they are no longer welcome. I can and I will prioritize myself and my personal well-being over the chaos of someone else’s chaotic life.

The Allure of Simplicity in Friendships

As we grow older, we begin to recognize that stressful friend dynamics can be draining.

We start to appreciate simplicity and authenticity in our relationships. The appeal of deep, meaningful connections becomes far more desirable than the fleeting excitement of drama.

Many individuals find themselves gravitating toward friends who bring positivity and support rather than those who contribute to stress and tension.

Prioritizing Mental Well-being Over Friendship Drama

As we mature, we face various life challenges—career pressures, family responsibilities, and health concerns. These factors heighten our awareness of mental health. We begin to understand the importance of surrounding ourselves with individuals who uplift us instead of those who bring drama into our lives.

Friendship drama can lead to anxiety, resentment, and emotional fatigue. As we age, we learn to prioritize our mental health and seek relationships that foster calm and support.

The desire for a peaceful life becomes paramount, and we become adept at recognizing friendships that enrich our lives rather than drain our energy.

Setting Healthy Boundaries in Friendships

Another vital aspect of this shift is the establishment of healthy boundaries. With age comes wisdom, and we learn that it’s acceptable to say “no” to relationships that no longer serve us.

We become more skilled at identifying toxic dynamics and are less inclined to tolerate behavior that disrupts our peace.

This doesn’t mean we abandon our friends when conflicts arise; rather, we approach friendships with a discerning eye. We understand that it’s okay to distance ourselves from those who thrive on drama or engage in constant negativity.

By setting boundaries, we create space for healthier, more fulfilling connections.

The Joy of Quiet Companionship

As we embrace this new phase of life, we often find joy in quieter, more stable friendships. These relationships are characterized by mutual respect, understanding, and a shared desire for peace. Activities like enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, going for a nature walk, or simply being in comfortable silence become cherished moments.

In this phase, we learn to appreciate the value of companionship without the need for constant excitement. The comfort of being with someone who understands us without the need for dramatic exchanges is a beautiful realization that often comes with maturity.

Finding Peace in Friendship

Reaching a certain age often brings a profound shift in our approach to friendships. The drama that once seemed thrilling can become burdensome, leading us to seek a quieter, more peaceful existence.

By prioritizing mental well-being, setting healthy boundaries, and embracing meaningful connections, we create a life that reflects our values and desires.

In the end, friendship, in its simplest form, is about connection—one that enriches our lives without the unnecessary chaos.

Embracing this phase can lead to deeper, more fulfilling relationships that nurture our souls and allow us to thrive in the serenity we crave.

Let’s celebrate this journey toward a peaceful life, where friendship drama becomes a distant memory, and tranquility reigns supreme. featured image credit:ktpaperdesigns

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you deserve to be happy!

What does a relationship mean to you?

For me, it’s being with someone who is my best friend and loved partner.

When you wake up and you’ve been holding hands during the night, because you always reach out for each other, even in sleep.

You both get up and it’s a fresh, bright and wonderful new morning, full of hope and possibilities.

You laugh and talk as you make breakfast together. Maybe pancakes or french toast with cinnamon sugar. Maybe eggs or porridge with honey and fresh berries.

And coffee, nice strong coffee.

It’s a special part of the day to share and it sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Do you go on a hike? Or go back to bed for a while? 😉 take the dogs for a walk or both head to the gym to workout.

The day can take any turn you like. But you’ve set a beautiful start.

That’s what my best friend and partner would want – with me and I with them 💕

My person willingly and happily shares the household labour, freeing us up to have more quality time together. Knowing that the chores do not belong to any one person.

My person would never expect me to bear more than my fair share of tasks, because love recognizes that both of us are contributing to something we wish to grow together.

There is no room for being selfish. But there is room to care for ourselves and each other.

He is intuitive and notices if I am down or feeling tired. We both will pick up more of the burden if we notice the other is not quite up to things. It’s nurturing and it’s empathy and it’s genuine love.

We are both ok with needing space and solitude sometimes and allowing each other that grace.

Loving someone is grace, kindness, laughter. It can also be less than that at times, because life is not always rainbows and unicorns.

But we know that and we accept each other and that is our love.

When times are tough, we pull together to work things out. No matter what, we have each other’s back.

For after all, we are kindred souls and we will never lose each other 💕

one can but dream…

imagecredit: specialsaying

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be wary of people who hate animals…

I’m always wary of folk that hate animals!

I dated a guy one time who hated animals (I know, right?!? what was I thinking?) He was an overall creep as well! Took a minute to figure it out, but I did.

He used to mock me for having a dog. Literally, he actually said “what 50 year old gets a dog?” Saying I was “pathetic.”

The thing is I have had dogs and cats my whole life since childhood. The one he was referring to I got when I was 52, my other dog was getting a bit old and I felt having a puppy would cheer her up, which it did (eventually!) My older dog passed a few years later and I swear having a younger dog around gave her more energy and pep!

Being with someone who despised animals was horrible. It was an experience that taught me more about human nature than I ever wanted to know.

I’m an animal lover. My dog isn’t just a pet; they’re family. They greet me with wagging tails and endless affection after a long day, offering unconditional love and companionship. So when I started dating this guy, I was excited to introduce him to my furry friend. Little did I know, that introduction would reveal more about him than any conversation ever could.

At first, he seemed indifferent about my dog. I brushed it off, thinking maybe he just wasn’t used to animals. But then the mocking started. He’d make snide remarks about how “pathetic” it was to be so attached to a dog. He’d laugh at the idea of someone finding comfort and joy in an animal’s company, saying it was “childish” and “ridiculous.”

His cruelty didn’t stop there. He’d deliberately antagonize my dog, teasing them in ways that were anything but playful. The more I saw this side of him, the more unsettled I became. His actions weren’t just a sign of disliking animals; they were a window into his twisted, cruel nature.

It wasn’t just about him not liking dogs—it was about the complete lack of empathy and compassion he showed. How could someone be so cold and heartless to a creature that only wanted to give love? The more time I spent with him, the more I realized he was a creep in every sense of the word. His disdain for animals mirrored a broader disdain for kindness and decency.

I’m so grateful to no longer have this excuse for a human in my life. Looking back, I can see how his attitude towards my dog was a massive red flag—a warning of the nastiness that lurked beneath the surface.

Here’s the thing: Animals bring out our softer sides. They remind us of the importance of care, love, and responsibility. If someone can’t appreciate that, if they respond with cruelty instead of kindness, it says a lot about who they are as a person.

So, here’s my advice: Never trust a person who hates animals. If they can’t show empathy for a creature that only wants to love and be loved, how can they possibly show it to another human being? Surround yourself with people who share your love and compassion for all living beings—it’s one of the best ways to ensure that you’re with someone who truly has a good heart.

As for me, I’m happy to have my dog by my side, a loyal companion who, unlike that guy, knows the true meaning of unconditional love

My now older dog is 13 and yesterday I rescued a pup to keep him company in his twilight years.

My new pup is 7 months old and she is gorgeous – look at those eyes!

picture of a black toy poodle

Her owner rejected her as she’d been bought to be a “show dog.” However, the pup has a little white fur on her chest and a tiny (genetic) kink in her tail, so she was disqualified at her first show.

That meant the owner didn’t want her anymore😢

This pup now has a warm and loving home with me! Her imperfections are cute as far as I’m concerned and she has settled beautifully into my home.

Even better, my current partner loves dogs and cats and is delighted with my little menagerie!💗

imagecredit:unkonfined

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We all have our battles: a Journey of Resilience and Connection…

I was chatting before class with one of my trainers at the gym. She was checking in with how I am travelling after my hectic health issues last year😊

I told her that the breast cancer is in remission; the non-Hodgkins Lymphoma is still “watch & wait” with 6 monthly check-ups; the Lymphocytic Colitis is mostly under control and I have my Cochlear implant in my left ear so hearing is awesome!

So this year is pretty good really.

She confided that she is feeling a bit unmotivated with life at the moment, but feels that when she hears about my journey that she has nothing really to worry about.

I told her that we all have our own things to deal with and to not feel that hers are any less valid. They are absolutely real for her and there are times we all feel unmotivated with life.

Life, in all its complexity, is a series of battles. Some days, the sun shines bright, and the path ahead seems clear. On others, the road is shrouded in darkness, and every step feels like an uphill climb.

Whether it’s relationship troubles, health issues, or the general malaise that sometimes settles in our souls, we all face challenges that test our strength and resolve.

But here’s the thing: it’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to feel lost, tired, or overwhelmed.

The important part is that we keep moving forward, even if it’s just one small step at a time.

I’ve come to understand that life isn’t about avoiding difficulties—it’s about how we respond to them. It’s about resilience, that quiet, persistent strength that keeps us going even when the odds seem stacked against us.

And while it’s essential to draw from our inner reserves, we also need to recognize the power of connection, of leaning on others when our strength wanes.

Lifting Each Other Up

No one is an island. We weren’t meant to walk this journey alone. Yet, how often do we hesitate to reach out, to ask for help, or to simply share what’s weighing on our hearts? We worry about being a burden, about showing vulnerability, about not having it all together.

But here’s the truth: we all have our moments of doubt and despair. When we share these moments with others, we often find that we are not alone in our struggles. Our friends, family, and even those who might just be passing through our lives for a brief time—they’ve been there too.

And in that shared understanding, we can find comfort and strength. There’s a profound power in lifting each other up. A kind word, a listening ear, a simple “I’m here for you”—these small gestures can make a world of difference. They remind us that we don’t have to carry our burdens alone.

Being Our Authentic Selves

Authenticity is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and to others. In a world that often pushes us to present a curated, polished version of our lives, being real can feel risky.

But it’s through authenticity that true connections are made. When we allow ourselves to be seen—flaws, scars, and all—we create space for others to do the same.

We open the door to deeper relationships, where we can support each other not just in our successes, but in our struggles too. Being authentic isn’t about oversharing or laying bare every detail of our lives; it’s about being true to who we are.

It’s about acknowledging our battles and facing them head-on, with the understanding that it’s okay not to have all the answers.

Checking In with Each Other

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of the people around us. We get caught up in our routines, our to-do lists, our own worries. But it’s so important to take a moment to check in with those we care about.

A simple, “How are you, really?” can open the door to meaningful conversation and connection. It shows that we care, that we’re paying attention, that we’re here to support each other.

Sometimes, that check-in is all it takes to remind someone that they’re not alone in their battle.

Life is a journey filled with highs and lows, with triumphs and trials. We all have our battles, but we don’t have to face them alone.

By lifting each other up, being our authentic selves, and checking in with one another, we can create a community of support and love—a place where we can all find the strength to keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Let’s be there for each other. Let’s face our battles with courage and compassion. And let’s never forget the power of connection in this beautiful, messy journey called life.

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Connecting with someone special…

For a long time, I believed in the fairy tale—the one where the hero rides in on a white horse to rescue me from whatever woes life threw my way. But life taught me a valuable lesson: I didn’t need a hero. I saved myself long ago. I realized that I am complete on my own; I don’t need someone to complete me. I am whole, capable, and content with who I am.

However, there was something I did crave: a fellow weirdo to share adventures with. Someone who would dance with me in the living room at midnight, kiss me when I least expect it, and make me laugh until my sides hurt. I didn’t need rescuing; I just wanted a partner in crime, a co-conspirator in the grand escapade of life.

And then, as if by a stroke of cosmic luck, I met that person. They were just as quirky as I am, and from the very first moment, we got each other. There was no need for explanations or justifications; we fit together in a way that was both effortless and exhilarating.

I am eternally grateful for this connection. In a world that often feels overwhelming and chaotic, having someone who understands and accepts your weirdness is a gift beyond measure. We laugh, we dance, and we embark on countless adventures, each one more thrilling than the last.

What more could I possibly need? In finding each other, we’ve created our own fairy tale—not one of rescue and heroics, but of mutual weirdness, joy, and endless possibilities. And in this story, we are both the heroes, standing strong together, ready for whatever comes next

imagecredit:brookehampton

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Finding Joy and Peace in My 60s: A Journey Worth Every Step

Hello lovely people, here I am in my mid 60s, and guess what? I’m genuinely, unabashedly happy.

Yes, it took a while to get here—decades, in fact.

I’ve navigated an emotionally damaging childhood, toxic relationships, work stress that could power a small country, and a couple of serious health scares. But now, I’ve reached a place of peace and joy that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

A Rocky Road to Happiness

Let’s rewind a bit. Picture me as a kid—wide-eyed, full of dreams, and completely unprepared for the emotional rollercoaster that was my childhood.

It wasn’t exactly the stuff of Norman Rockwell paintings. But hey, I survived, and more importantly, I learned a lot about resilience and the power of humor.

After all, if you can laugh in the face of adversity, you’ve already won half the battle.

Fast forward to my adult years, which were a mixed bag of triumphs and tribulations. I had my share of toxic relationships. You know the type—the ones that make you feel like you’re starring in a never-ending soap opera.

And let’s not forget the work stress. Oh, the work stress! It was like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. But through it all, there was a constant source of light and joy: my beautiful, kind-hearted daughter.

The Light of My Life

My daughter is the embodiment of everything good in the world. She’s been my rock, my confidante, and my biggest cheerleader. Even during the darkest times, she was there, shining brightly and reminding me of what really matters.

Her kindness, compassion, and boundless love have been the anchor that kept me grounded. Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without her.

The Path to Peace and Joy

Now, in my 60s, I’ve finally cracked the code to happiness. Spoiler alert: it involves good boundaries, positive people, and living life on my own terms.

I’ve become a master at setting boundaries—no more energy vampires or drama llamas for me. I surround myself with kind, positive people who lift me up and bring out the best in me.

It’s like curating a personal museum of joy and laughter, and the exhibits are all my wonderful friends and loved ones.

Living life on my own terms means embracing what brings me joy, whether it’s spending time with my daughter, indulging in my hobbies, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a good book.

It means saying no to things that don’t serve me and yes to the things that do. And let me tell you, it’s incredibly liberating.

The Silver Lining of Aging

They say with age comes wisdom, and I have to agree. In my 60s, I’ve learned to appreciate the little things, to find joy in everyday moments, and to cherish the relationships that truly matter.

I’ve also learned that it’s okay to prioritize myself and my wellbeing. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

And let’s not forget the humour. Oh, the humour! There’s something wonderfully freeing about being able to laugh at life’s absurdities.

Whether it’s the inevitable “senior moments” or the quirks of getting older, laughter has become my secret weapon. It’s like a warm hug for the soul, and I embrace it wholeheartedly.

A Life Well Lived

So here I am, in my 60s, happier than I’ve ever been. It’s been a long, winding road to get here, but every step has been worth it. I’ve learned to keep good boundaries, surround myself with positivity, and live life on my own terms.

And through it all, my daughter remains the light and joy of my life, a constant reminder of love and kindness.

To anyone out there still navigating their own rocky road, take heart. Happiness is within reach, no matter how long it takes to find it.

Keep laughing, keep loving, and most importantly, keep living life on your own terms. You’ve got this!

imagecredit:shweni

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Life Is Too Short: Living this to the fullest

You’ve probably heard the phrase “life is too short” more times than you can count. It’s a staple of motivational quotes, often tossed around during moments of reflection or after someone has an epiphany about their priorities. Yet, how many of us actually live by this simple but profound wisdom?

For me, “life is too short” isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a guiding principle. I genuinely believe that our time here is finite and precious, and I have no capacity for negativity, meanness, or cruelty.

Yes, I have my down days like everyone else, but I refuse to be at war with my own mind. Instead, I choose to focus on what makes life beautiful and meaningful.

Embracing Positivity

One of the key ways I live by this adage is through meditation. Meditation helps me find peace amidst the chaos of daily life. It grounds me, allowing me to let go of negativity and refocus on what truly matters.

When you meditate, you learn to observe your thoughts without judgment, which makes it easier to release the negative and embrace the positive.

Surrounding Myself with Kindness

I also make a conscious effort to surround myself with kind, positive people. Kindness is contagious; when you surround yourself with it, you can’t help but absorb some of that goodness.

These people lift me up, inspire me, and remind me of the beauty in the world. They are my support system, and I try to be the same for them.

Making Others Feel Good

Another way I embody “life is too short” is by striving to make others feel good about themselves. Whether it’s through a compliment, a helping hand, or just being a good listener, I try to spread positivity.

In my small way, I aim to make the world just a little bit nicer. It’s amazing how much a simple act of kindness can brighten someone’s day.

Ignoring the Negativity

Of course, life isn’t free from negativity. There are always gossips, drama llamas, and whirling dervishes of negativity trying to pull you down. My approach? Pay them no heed. I maintain my dignity and hold my head high.

Engaging with negativity only drags you down to its level. Instead, I choose to rise above it, focusing on the positive and refusing to let the negativity of others dictate my mood or actions.

Living with Integrity

Maintaining your dignity and integrity in the face of negativity is crucial. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

By holding your head high and staying true to your values, you demonstrate strength and resilience.

You show that you’re not willing to compromise your peace of mind for the sake of others’ drama.

You’ve Got This!

Living by the adage “life is too short” means making a deliberate choice to focus on the good, embrace kindness, and reject negativity.

It’s about understanding that our time here is limited and making the most of it by filling our lives with joy and positivity.

So, the next time you find yourself surrounded by negativity or facing a down day, remember: life is too short to be anything but calm & content.

Meditate, surround yourself with good people, spread kindness, and hold your head high. You’ve got this!

Let’s make the world a little brighter, one positive action at a time.

imagecredit:mackenzie

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Sometimes it’s just really hard…

So there I was, drenched in sweat, heart racing, and fingers trembling as I finally unlocked the last clue to escape the most diabolical room ever designed by humanity. The clock stopped with mere seconds to spare. I turned to my friends, ready to bask in the glory of our victory when, out of nowhere, my ex—yes, my actual ex—popped out of nowhere (don’t ask me how they got there) and said, “That was our relationship.”

Well, ouch. But also… kinda accurate.

Let me paint a picture for you. An escape room, if you haven’t experienced one, is a place where you voluntarily lock yourself in a room with your friends (or frenemies), and then solve a series of puzzles to get out. You have a set time limit, usually an hour, to piece together clues, decode messages, and generally panic while the clock ticks down. Fun, right?

Now, let’s talk about relationships—specifically, mine with my ex. Imagine entering a room with no clear instructions, where everything is a potential clue but nothing makes sense. You look at your partner and wonder, “Are we in this together, or are you just going to watch me struggle while offering vague hints?”

The Clues

In an escape room, clues are hidden everywhere. In my relationship, clues about how my ex was feeling were just as scattered and cryptic. “Is that a happy sigh or a frustrated one?” I’d think, like I was trying to decode Morse code. And just like in an escape room, sometimes you’d find a clue, think it was the key to everything, only to realize it led to another puzzle, and another, and another…

The Team

Escape rooms are all about teamwork. So are relationships. But in our case, the teamwork was… let’s say, lacking. It was like being in a room with someone who’d rather rearrange the furniture than solve the puzzle. “Did you try opening that drawer?” I’d ask, metaphorically, in our relationship. “No, but I think the couch looks better over here,” would be the response.

The Time Crunch

The ticking clock in an escape room adds pressure, much like the ticking clock of societal expectations in a relationship. “When are you two getting serious?” friends would ask. Meanwhile, we’re still trying to figure out how to unlock the emotional equivalent of a padlocked treasure chest – without the actual treasure!

The Victory

Escaping the room felt amazing. For a brief moment, I felt like a genius who could outwit any challenge. Similarly, the moments when our relationship worked felt incredible. We’d have a breakthrough, like finding a hidden key, and everything would click into place. But just like in escape rooms, that high was often followed by the realization that another puzzle awaited us.

The Exit

Finally, there’s that sweet moment of escape, of freedom, of seeing the light outside. In our relationship, that moment came too. But instead of cheers and high-fives, it was more of a mutual, exhausted sigh of relief. I didn’t solve the puzzle, but I sure learned a lot about myself along the way.

Our relationship was one giant, complicated, exhausting escape room. But unlike a typical escape room, where the challenge is the reward, our relationship taught me that sometimes, the best move is knowing when to call it quits and head for the door.

And for that, I thank my ex. Now, who’s up for another escape room?

imagecredit:magicdesign

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When folk are overly interested in your life…

It never ceases to amaze me how much some people love to gossip about others!

Mostly the gossip is either an exaggeration or outright fiction about others’ lives.

I’ve had my fair share of folk who flap their jaws bad-mouthing me. It always causes me to raise an eyebrow and wonder with curiosity as to what is so lacking in their lives that they try to turn mine into a soap opera!😂

Gossip is a reflection of the person doing the gossiping and not the person being gossiped about. They are weak and need other people’s approval to validate their self-worth.

The gossiper is usually a very insecure person. They talk about others so that no one notices their insecurities and their inadequacies.

People talk about others when they are not happy with themselves. If you are busy with a joyful, motivated life you really don’t have the kind of time required to engage in this type of activity.

There is a word for this: “scandalmonger. a person who spreads malicious gossip.” (vocabulary.com)

According to Insight Therapy:

People gossip for a number of reasons (that really have nothing to do with you!)

  1. To feel superior. Many people who are insecure about themselves find temporary relief in judging others. Knowing something that others don’t can feel empowering, and sometimes, that’s all an uncertain gossiper needs. But, it can also make you appear untrustworthy.
  2. They have a sadistic personality. Emotional sadism – someone who comes off as harsh, aggressive, intimidating, or demeaning is rooted in gossip. This type of character enjoys knowing that someone else is experiencing pain or misfortune, delighted that it’s not happening to them.
  3. They’re bored. When people can’t generate exciting discussions based on knowledge or ideas, gossip can arouse people’s interest.
  4. Anxiety. Anxious people are more likely to spread rumors and partake in gossip, according to research. And since uncertainty or feeling out of control is significant in anxiety, gossiping can make someone get that sense of control back.
  5. To feel like part of the group. Alongside that feeling of connection we desire, sometimes people gossip to feel like they belong to the group. Being the center of someone or a group’s attention while gossiping can be compared to buying attention. Yet, this feeling of acceptance isn’t based on a person’s identity or personality but exclusion or maliciousness.

If you find yourself the focus of a gossip, regardless of their underlying motivation, the best thing you can do is maintain your dignity.

When it has happened to me, I never respond, I never clarify or explain and I never gossip back about the gossiper!

I always maintain my silence and my dignity. At the end of the day ALL my family and friends know me well. Those loyal to me would never for a minute countenance any garbage spoken about me or my character.

If anyone else does listen. Good. Enjoy the drama, season 2 is on the way! 😂

My advice to you is to keep your eyes on your own path. That is more important, more true and more relevant than ever listening to what others have to say about you. You know your self-worth and you really can rise above it all!

imagecredit:livewhatyoulove

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life is good, loving life & all that it brings!

Here we are almost half way through the year! Woooo, time surely does fly!

For me, this has been a great year and I am sure it will continue to be fabulous.

Last year was a bit of a dumpster fire healthwise and slowed me down a tad. But not entirely, I still kept up my dancing and gym and running in amongst it all. I think all of those things kept me going both physically and for my emotional wellbeing.

I also surround myself with the best people. My friends and family (most notably my daughter) and my partner are the most supportive and beautiful humans you could ever wish to have in your life.

I finally learned to keep my boundaries strong and to recognise early on any toxic, negative people and to either keep them at a distance or gently remove them from my life.

I don’t do drama. I do not welcome aggressive or negative people in my life. They are welcome to be whoever they wish to be – but at a nice, healthy distance from me!

My partner is an absolute delight. He is gentle and warmhearted, kind, smart, unique, funny and adorable!

We have a lot in common and he is also my dance partner. He loves my dog and cat and that to me, is also the measure of a good man.

cat on a wall climber

My dance friends are wonderful. Their energy and enthusiasm buoy me up whenever I am in their company. You cannot feel sad when you are on the dance floor! My dance teachers are also wonderful people – they are warm and welcoming.

They are supporting a lovely couple who joined relatively recently, picked up the moves quickly and recently won a couple of National titles. This couple are aiming for the world titles and our dance teachers are running a fundraising dance for them with full support from everyone in our community so we can send them across the country to compete! We all love Brooke & Pete – they are the loveliest couple you could ever wish to meet and we will all be wishing them the very best at the World Championship!

My gym buddies and trainers are likewise awesome people. They continually give me courage and strength to keep going and to aim for my strength and fitness goals. It is very much a community of likeminded people and we are welcoming of all newcomers and supportive of everyone, regardless of where they are at in their fitness & strength journey.

I retired early this year and it is the best decision and I wish I had done it earlier. I am loving living my life at my own, gentler pace. I am quite busy, but I have time and can make time to look after my wellbeing and take the occasional nap whenever I feel like it!

Apart from dancing, running & the gym. I am volunteering with my dog (George the Therapy Dog) doing one-off visits. I also volunteer with a cat rescue organisation and drive kittens and abandoned cats to carers and foster homes. I have also been volunteering with a refugee organisation. Basically, I am almost more busy than I was when working. However, it’s a type of busy that I enjoy and I have fun doing.

George the Therapy Dog

I occasionally work at my friend’s gym – on an ad-hoc basis. Usually, when she has other commitments and I can step in – again, only when it fits in with my life and my commitments.

All up, life is really good and I am happy and content. You really can’t ask for much more from life! 

imagecredit:tatyanagladskih 

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