50something Moms
| 50-something Moms editor - Cindi Matthews |  |
Now that the kiddos have graduated high school or college, you may be experiencing the loneliness of Empty Nest Syndrome after the "nest's" residents launch and venture out into the world. That being said, you, the nest's builder, will be feeling utterly lost and a bit useless.
The summer solstice will be arriving not too soon enough, signifying the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. To me, that means lazy days in the gazebo where I get to delve into the latest book on the New York Times Bestseller list.
Can you remember the last time you relaxed and picked up a magazine or book? Was it in school? You may not realize it, but our brains are craving new information.
As Americans we take the least amount of vacation time compared to people in other countries, averaging only 10 days off from work. Traditionally, vacations are a way to get a reprieve from the daily grind of taking care of our homes as well as a way to relax, enjoy some free leisure time and get away from the anxiety of work.
I've written previously of the benefits of vacationing and traveling solo. Another interesting concept is you'll find that many people are now opting to take a "volunteer vacation."
Read more: Hit The Open Road This Summer - Take a Volunteer Vacation
Baby Boomers are realizing that they have some disposable income around now that they're empty nesters, and classic cars are becoming popular again. Baby Boomers are obviously the top buyers and affectionados of cars that were popular in our youth.
Read more: New Opportunities For You: Consider Going Back to College
When you like to to travel and your significant other doesn't, traveling solo may be something worth trying. If you're adventurous enough, traveling alone is an exciting concept and something worth considering.
My grandmother was born in 1901 and lived to be 101. If she were to have told you the secret to her long life, it would have been that she took care of her mind, body and soul. With the cost of rising health-care in today's society that can be a challenge.
Read more: Saving on Healthcare While Protecting Your Health
Common wisdom suggests that most people think that stress-causing situations stem from workplace problems. They also think that besides work, thinking about family issues, health issues and finances are the cause of stress. While these situations can individually be stressors, another one that might not be on the radar screen is retirement. Believe me, retirement is right on top of the list now as a cause of experiencing stressful situations!
The concept of change often evokes different emotions in people and in my case, sends me into a tailspin. I'm experiencing such feelings now as I contemplate taking an early retirement Golden Handshake from my employer of almost 20 years. I am being forced to make a decision, and quickly. The exit date is scheduled for either June 1st or July 1st. It takes me that long to pick out a special occasion dress!
Today starts a new beginning for me. The timing is appropriate since we're in the Northern Hemisphere and Connecticut enjoys four seasons, which means that it is officially spring! I'm taking delight in the daffodils that are popping out from my garden. Spring signifies new beginnings, rebirth, regeneration and another chance to refresh, re-group and get our bounce back. Yet why is there no spring in my steps? As a mid-life Baby Boomer Grandma, I don't hit the ground running like I used to!
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