What I Learned from a MyLot Member
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
United States
January 27, 2016 9:24am CST
One thing about teachers, retired or not, we like to learn. We pay attention to those around us and gather helpful bits of information from them. MyLot is a terrific place to do this. People from all over the world tell us about things they do, places they go and how they organize their lives. They also share their perspective and feelings.
I thought it would be fun to describe what I have learned from one MyLot member, and encourage you to share something you have read here, and incorporated into your life. Barry writes as @Asylum here. I first met him on the BB site.
What could a woman in SoCal learn from a man in Manchester, England? Well, we are both retired. I think Barry has been retired longer than I, but that is just a feeling I have. He is a computer type, I am not. But it isn’t his technical expertise that I value the most. It is how he has organized his day.
Barry lives in a city. He takes public transportation into the city center most days. If nothing else, he stops somewhere and has a coffee (or is it tea, Barry?). There are many benefits to this routine. Staying home all the time, especially if you live alone, has an isolating effect. If you are retired, you no longer have a group of people around you five days a week. It may be easy to stay home all the time, but it isn’t healthy.
I live in a suburb. We don’t have a city center or a downtown. I have to get creative if I want to emulate Barry’s habit. And I do want to copy his routine. I find that on those days I go out, I am happier, even if I just chat with the clerk at Trader Joe’s. So Monday I went to the Irvine Spectrum, had tea at PF Chang’s (restaurant), walked around the shopping center (which has a huge pedestrian area) and saw Star Wars at the theater. Yesterday, I stopped by my local beauty salon (to help solve a problem they had with their credit card reader), walked at the coast (pictured at right) and had lunch at a local Mexican restaurant (where everyone knows my name). Today, I need a few items from the market. I’ll try to figure out how to expand this into something marginally social.
This is a habit that I want to continue. I learned it here. Thanks, Barry. Have you picked up a tip or idea from a MyLot member that you would like to share with the rest of us?
24 people like this
22 responses
@Asylum (47893)
• Manchester, England
27 Jan 16
Very kind of you to credit me with changing your outlook to retirement Elizabeth. It was always so nice to stay at home for a day while I was working, but realised that it would become too easy once I retired, which could result in me becoming a hermit. A wander into the city and a cup of coffee makes a big difference, despite it being rather basic. Today I bought an extra coffee and took it to my friend who sells newspapers on the main street, even such minor conversations make me part of society still.
It is more than likely that I have picked up quite a few good useful tips here over the years, although none actually spring to mind at the moment.
7 people like this
@Asylum (47893)
• Manchester, England
27 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace There is always something to disrupt the best laid plans, but the real trick is to be able to legislate for such occasions.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@Asylum True. I had no clue that my plans required other people to cooperate. This was a surprise to me. But I'm over the disappointment. That was an issue at first. Now I just do what I want, not counting on others. This helps. It's a form of letting go.
2 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace this is a hard thing. A lot of people have considerably more money than we do. Others have considerably less. It's hard to find a few people who can enjoy the same things as each other.
3 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
28 Jan 16
My dad was at the neighbourhood swimming pool every morning at 5:30 am to swim with his buddies. The pool had a little lobby with just a picnic table and chairs where they had coffee for an hour or so after their swim. They took turns bringing muffins and stuff. He was involved in many other things but that group seemed to bring him the most pleasure.
4 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
This sounds wonderful. I have tried to find groups like this, so far, without much luck. But it has not stopped me from looking.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
29 Jan 16
@paigea Yes, I need to go check out the bocce in my area. I like the sport.
2 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
29 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace It seems like that sort of group just has to evolve. But you have to be out there doing things for it to happen of course.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
That is a great thing to learn. Going outside is in our DNA. Staying inside is not how our ancestors lived, nor should it be how we live.
5 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@paigea This is a recent discovery. People who walk in areas where there is nature are happier than those who walk in more urban settings, even if they like living in cities. The soul is nourished by the sun, sea, sky, and all things green and growing.
2 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace Today the talk at the library was about the opportunities our area has for exercise. The presenter said that we need a daily dose of vitamin N. N is for Nature. I didn't go to the talk; someone else did and told me that.
2 people like this
@JamesHxstatic (29413)
• Eugene, Oregon
27 Jan 16
I am sure I have learned things from online writer friends, but nothing comes to mind as I read this.The Tylenol PM from last night still has me a bit groggy. You are smart to try to stay active and engaged.
3 people like this
@JamesHxstatic (29413)
• Eugene, Oregon
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace I can't say I blame you. Are there retired teachers groups around that would be interesting?
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
I would do what you are doing at the bird store, except that I don't really want anyone to rely on me anymore. I spent 64 years taking care of others. They learned to lean on me pretty hard. I work at not allowing this to happen anymore.
2 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
28 Jan 16
@JamesHxstatic I had a free sample of Tylenol PM and thought it worked pretty good and didn't leave me groggy. I was thinking of buying it for those times pain keeps me awake but not if it's going to leave me groggy
3 people like this
@DianneN (247186)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace The good parking is a boon! I love walking along the water. What model Fitbit did you get? I think I may take the plunge.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
Outside is my favorite place to be, weather permitting. The photo is a hidden gem of a spot overlooking the Pacific. It is very close to my house, an easy drive and has good parking too. I love walking there.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@DianneN I have the Charge HR. One important reason was the buckle. I read that the other bands were not very secure. The device fell off at times. But with my buckle, it is secure.
I also like the heart monitor, but I bought it mostly because I wanted to know my sleep cycle. When you live alone, no one is there to tell you is you are waking up or are restless. The Fitbit tells me how long and how well I slept, along with all sorts of other fun info.
3 people like this
@andriaperry (117146)
• Anniston, Alabama
27 Jan 16
I have not ever been professional teacher, but I like to learn daily. I believe in self education.
Yes I have learned a lot from my fellow blogers. Rextrulove teaches me new natural medicine. you probably remember him from Bubble, he has his own site now.
Peter from another blog site I write on daily is teaching me about solar power and what I need and what sucks power.
I often learn new way to cook from people in other countries, who would have thought Avocados would taste good with milk and sugar?!!
I agree we do need people, real people in the real world. Not just at home with a machine to talk through.
4 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
27 Jan 16
Can you give an example from your solar power friend? What have you done to implement his suggestions?
3 people like this
@andriaperry (117146)
• Anniston, Alabama
27 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace To be totally off the power grid I should not use a hair dryer or microwave because they use a lot of power and I should let go of my old monster computer in this office that I love and just use my lap top. Make sure the fridge is a new energy savers. PLUS I need to go through a years worth of bills and count the amount of power that I used and base that on how big the system I would want, to keep things more like they are now.
2 people like this
@andriaperry (117146)
• Anniston, Alabama
27 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace I am learning what I need to buy, the above is suggestions to start now so I wont have to go cold turkey on some things.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
It is enjoyable. I don't drink coffee, but I am learning how to enjoy (maybe) green tea. The anti-inflammatory properties are great for what ails one.
2 people like this
@JamesHxstatic (29413)
• Eugene, Oregon
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace I am learning to like green tea too. It seems to be the healthiest kind.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
29 Jan 16
@JamesHxstatic Yes. I have read about it for ages. Now, with the new info about anti-inflammatory properties, it is a must drink for me. A little lemon and a small dab of raw organic honey (from TJ's, of course) makes it taste okay.
1 person likes this
@changjiangzhibin89 (16789)
• China
28 Jan 16
On the other hand ,it proves that You readily accept good advice .Mylot is a great place to improve ourselves in all respects .
2 people like this
@changjiangzhibin89 (16789)
• China
29 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace Here on Mylot ,there is a galaxy of talent .They are past masters at many things ,which does us a power of good .
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
29 Jan 16
@changjiangzhibin89 I thought people would share some of the things they have learned in the comments section under my post, but that has not happened. Oh, well.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
Yes. I have found over the years that learning from others can greatly improve one's life. I try to surround myself with smart people.
2 people like this
@BelleStarr (61101)
• United States
27 Jan 16
That is one thing I miss here in the states, our ability to just take public transportation. I think you are doing a good job of adapting his lifestyle to your situation. I love the coastal photo.I certainly have picked up some photo tips on here and Barry is a font of computer info.
3 people like this
@BelleStarr (61101)
• United States
29 Jan 16
We have been doing that more here in Florida since there are things to see and do closer than at home @ElizabethWallace
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
Yes he sure is. I leaned many tech type things from him when we were on BB. But his habit of going out didn't really sink in until recently. I was so used to being efficient and putting several tasks into one trip that I missed the whole point. Regular trips out and about are the whole deal, accomplishing a task is a side benefit.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
29 Jan 16
@BelleStarr If you can get to Key West, go visit the Butterfly Conservatory. It is worth the trip.
2 people like this
@jaboUK (64354)
• United Kingdom
28 Jan 16
I agree that getting out is essential, especially when we are retired. It's too easy to sit in front of the computer all day. It requires an affort to do it, but is well worth it.
I've learned so much from my fellow Bubblers and Mylotters over the last two years that I could fill a book.
3 people like this
@jaboUK (64354)
• United Kingdom
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace DaddyEvil showed me a great way of putting all my Mylot emails into their own folder. That way if I am away I can still see who's responded to what, as they don't drop off like they do in the notifications. They stay there until I deal with them. Also I often catch something there that I would otherwise have missed.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
Okay, pick one and tell us about it, if you have time.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@jaboUK Okay. That's a handy tip.
1 person likes this
@DeborahDiane (40320)
• Laguna Woods, California
28 Jan 16
I'm so glad that Barry has encouraged you to get out and socialize more. That is very important. In fact, at the senior conference, they said that isolation is a major health risk for senior citizens. I'm involved in so many activities, it seems like I am hardly ever alone ... yoga classes, weight lifting class, walking with a group of friends, Alanon meetings, and other activities. I actually enjoy those days when I don't have to do anything.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
This is great for you. I tried some of those types of classes (yoga, chi gong and tai chi), but even doing them very carefully ended up in pain. This fascinates me, but kept me from going back.
1 person likes this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
27 Jan 16
That looks like a lovely walk way. My husband has been retired for many years. It took me a while to understand why he drove into town most days instead of asking me to pick up what we needed after work. I was all about conserving fuel; he was all about having an enjoyable retirement after a life of working. Staying home all day wasn't his desire even though he has many many interests at home. So, I agree planning a good day for you, is important.
I will have to think what I have learned that I have used. I have read much that interested me that is for sure.
3 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
It's great that you understood, or that he was able to do this without you really getting it at first. Stopping being active cold turkey is not a great idea for the body, mind or soul.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
@paigea Most of my hobbies (reading, writing, watching movies, etc.) require me to sit. I have had to figure out how to add activities that put me on my feet.
2 people like this
@paigea (36315)
• Canada
28 Jan 16
@ElizabethWallace He put thought into what he was going to do before he retired and bought a lot of woodworking equipment. I saw how he adjusted to retirement and I have come to the conclusion that I am better off to keep working part time. I don't have all these hobbies like he does. I would sit around too much.
3 people like this
@Dena91 (16686)
• United States
28 Jan 16
Mike has been retired for a little over a year now. It's been a joy having him home. One thing I learned since his retirement is how many folks he knows or knows him. Almost every time we are out and about shopping or running errands, someone stops to talk with him. I never knew I was married to Mr. Popular :)
We are active in our church so we don't isolate ourselves too much. Last weekend with the snow storm, we stayed in for 3 days. It for us was a nice change of pace though we missed being at church on Sunday. Have a blessed day.
2 people like this
@ElizabethWallace (12074)
• United States
28 Jan 16
I have joined a local group. We'll see how this shakes out.
2 people like this
@nottoooldtowrite (2715)
• Philippines
28 Jan 16
We do learn from our everyday experiences and of course from our everyday interactions here. And that makes our life worthwhile.
2 people like this
@salonga (27775)
• Philippines
29 Jan 16
There are so many things to learn here. I've been picking ideas on homemade solutions to certain health or household issues, also gardening ideas. I also enjoy learning a lot from other culture, their way of life, their beliefs, and many more.
1 person likes this
Hubby & I try to do the same.
@jillybean1222 (6407)
•
29 Jan 16
I do often learn things here on Mylot about other cultures, other traditions.
1 person likes this
