Boomers July:Aug 2025

EYOND B oomers

B and

Celebrating the 55+ Community of Elgin County

July-August 2025 • Issue 62

Letter from the Editor Growing up with a mother who sold toys for a living meant Christmases at our house were nothing short of epic. We had front-of-the-sleigh access to the latest and greatest toys, even if they could not be found on shelves. One particularly mem- orable year brought the arrival of

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Photon (think laser tag, but cooler because it had helmets). My brother and I spent most of that Christmas in our pyjamas chasing each other around the house, blasting each other with toy lasers. I’m not sure my dog ever recovered. One unexpected perk of my mother’s career? Her biggest clients included Marineland, Boblo Island (forever my favourite), and Canada’s Wonderland. When she had to make a sales call, we’d often get to tag along, and we weren’t just guests. We were royalty. VIP treatment, free rides, and more fried food than any stomach could reasonably handle. For a while, it was magical. But after a few years, even the roller coasters lost their charm, and we started passing on the invites. The one ride we never turned down? The Scrambler, at the Western Fair. My brother and I would cram ourselves into the seat and try to smoosh each other into the corner while begging the operator, an older gentleman who appeared to be 80 for about 30 years straight, to make it go faster. These days, my thrill-seeking has mellowed, but my love for fairs and festivals hasn’t. And lucky for us, Elgin County is packed with them! Just this past weekend, I visited the Rosy Rhubarb Festival in Shedden. What a fantastic way to connect with your neighbours and support local artisans (and rhubarb lovers). Here are just a few upcoming festivals to mark on your calendar: • Nostalgia Nights, St. Thomas – July 12 • CALIPSO Festival, Port Stanley – August 2 to 5 • Aylmer Fair – August 8 to 10 • Rodney Fair – September 12 to 14 And one you definitely don’t want to miss, the Seniors Picnic in the Park: July 9, from 9 am to 2 pm at Pinafore Park (95 Elm Street, St. Thomas). This year marks the 26th anniversary of this much-loved event. There’ll be music, vendors, food, classic cars, prizes galore -- and new this year, a Seniors Picnic coupon page packed with exclusive deals! Remember, this is our summer issue covering July and August, so the next Boomers & Beyond won’t arrive until September. Until then, have a safe, fun-filled summer. I hope to see you at a festival — or better yet, at the picnic! • Wallacetown Fair – September 26 to 28 • Dorchester Fall Fair – October 10 to 13 Just to name a few!

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Page 2 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025

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Yarn Bombing at Royal Oak Senior Living: A Meaningful Collaboration by Peri Hayes Leslie Giesbrecht, Director of Communications and Engagement with DeafBlind Ontario Services, joined forces last year with Royal Oak Senior Living as a means to support ‘The Knit Wits Knitting Club’ upon its inception. This group gathers every Friday at 2:00 pm, year-round. During this time, the current eight members prepare various squares, wearable hats, mittens, scarves and more -- entailing crocheted, cross-stitching, hand-quilled pieces and beyond. Involved since the beginning, Margaret McLean and Claire Champ credit this club for keeping their hands active and their minds nourished. Margaret shares, “I’ve been knitting since I was young, learning different patterns and techniques.” Meanwhile, Claire, a natural creative with extensive experience in party decorating, enjoys challenging herself: “They test me.” Yarn Bombing has brought these individuals together, ultimately fostering quality friendship. Shannon Rose of the Recreation Department voices, “They’ve been working very hard.” Nathan Cook, Recreation Manager, proceeds, “Resident-based programs are our driving motivation.” As a means to give back to the community, Nathan shares the ways in which this group assembles donations for their Christmas Bazaar, St. Thomas Elgin Food Bank and The Salvation Army. This knitting club has partnered with DeafBlind Ontario Services to connect with the senior population, spread dual sensory loss awareness and spark interest. With June recognized as National Deafblind Awareness Month, The Knit Wits’ creations are presently showcased through three installations at the following locations: Pinafore Park, the Elgin Centre and the St. Thomas Public Library. ‘Grandma’s Living Room’ is on display at the Elgin Centre, which features various knitted furniture, walkers, an adorable furry companion and more. “We have such an artistic culture,” Leslie expresses with gratitude. “The support from the City and the Elgin Centre

warms my heart.” As a St. Thomas local, she feels proud to honour this connection within the community. Moreover, Leslie enthusiastically describes, “These ladies have big dreams, and I love it. They have created this incredible vision.” Another testament to their determination is the 20 ft-long scarf, which was designed with Jumbo in mind. Though not worn by the elephant statue, the group did bring their idea to fruition. Leslie continues, “Once these ladies had a goal in mind, that was it.” Royal Oak Senior Living will be represented at the Seniors’ Picnic in the Park later this month. With inquiries about their ongoing collaboration with DeafBlind Ontario Services, email Leslie at l.giesbrecht@deafblindontario.com. A QR code can also be found at their installations for learning about the population which DeafBlind Ontario Services proudly serves on a provincial scale.

Sing, Dance, Play an instrument, Tell Jokes? Audition registration is now open! Simply call 519-495-7177 or email stthomasseniorsgottalent@gmail.com with your name, phone number or email address and talent to sign up for our October 2nd auditions! Media Sponsors:

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 3

Volunteer of the Month, Colleen Gemmell Sponsored by Royal Oak by Peri Hayes

It was approximately five years ago when Colleen Gemmell attended a fundraising event for The INN St. Thomas- Elgin, during which she spoke with representatives and realized her place in this space as a local volunteer: “I believe that, in this country, no one should go hungry.” As Colleen passionately describes, “My role at The INN has always been in the kitchen, preparing meals. I initially started working the lunch shift, however, I quickly moved to the dinner shift. For the past many years, I have been on the Tuesday dinner crew which consists of myself and three other dedicated volunteers. We prepare the meal, serve it to the guests and then wash the dishes and clean up the kitchen after dinner service. Working the dinner shift only takes about three hours out of my week, but it can mean everything to someone who has nothing. The guests at The INN are truly appreciative of the volunteers.” “Volunteering at The INN has been an extremely gratifying experience for me. We live in a difficult and often unkind world. I truly believe that those of us who are able, need to step up and lend a hand to help those who are struggling. There are several reasons why homelessness is reaching unprecedented levels in our society, and it’s not always through the fault of those who find themselves in these unfortunate situations. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.” Located at 10 Princess Ave, Colleen highlights her com- munity service fulfillment: “For anyone who is considering volunteering at The INN or at any of the many charitable organizations in this community, I would say just go out and give it a try. You might be surprised at how good it makes you feel. I never leave The INN after a dinner shift when I don’t feel like I have made a small difference in someone’s life. Embracing those interested in joining their team, there are several volunteer opportunities at The INN which are highlighted by Colleen, who voices, “Whether it is in the

kitchen preparing meals or sorting donations, volunteers are always welcome. I have worked the dinner shift with the same people for the past several years, and now consider them to be my friends.” Colleen candidly concludes, “I have been very fortunate in my life, in that I have never found myself in a situation where I didn’t know where my next meal would come from or when I might have a safe, warm place to sleep at night. Getting to know many of the guests at The INN has given me a small bit of insight into their lives. I’d like to think that the little bit that I am able to do, helps to give them some comfort, some peace, some hope.”

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Protecting Your Skin at Every Age Warm weather calls us outside—to the garden, the beach, the deck, or just a walk around the block. And while the sunshine does wonders for the mood, it also demands a little more from our skincare routines, especially as our skin matures and becomes more delicate with time. One of the biggest myths is that sun protection is only necessary on hot, sunny days. In truth, ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin even on cloudy afternoons, and they reflect off water and sand, making sun safety a year-round habit. The effects of sun exposure accumulate over a lifetime, so even if you’ve never been the sunscreen type, it’s never too late to start. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher should be applied generously to all exposed skin— face, ears, neck, arms—and reapplied every two hours if you’re outdoors. Don’t forget your feet if you’re in sandals, and your lips, which benefit from a balm with built-in SPF. Hats are a skin’s best friend. A wide-brimmed one offers shade not only to your face but also to your neck and ears. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and UV-blocking sunglasses round out a simple but effective summer skin strategy. Of course, skin health isn’t just about sun exposure. With age, the skin tends to become drier and thinner, so daily moisturizing becomes more than a cosmetic, it’s essential. After a shower or bath, while the skin is still damp, is the perfect time to lock in hydration. Look for creams or lotions

with ingredients like cera- mides, glycerin, or hya- luronic acid, which help the skin retain moisture. Hydration from the inside out also matters. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps the skin stay supple. And while it’s tempting to lounge in front of a fan or air conditioner, these can dry out the skin further. A humidifier indoors can help maintain balance, especially if you

spend a lot of time inside during heat waves. Finally, keep an eye on any changes in your skin. New spots, sores that don’t heal, or moles that change in shape or colour should be checked by a healthcare provider. Early detection is key to treating many skin conditions, including skin cancer. Healthy skin isn’t about vanity—it’s about comfort, con- fidence, and taking care of the body you’ve lived in all these years. With just a few mindful habits, you can enjoy the summer sun without sacrificing your skin’s long-term health.

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 5

Seniors Picnic in the Park Returns for its 26th Year of Fun and Friendship The beloved Seniors Picnic in the Park is back this summer, promising another unforgettable day of music, food, fun, and friendship for older adults from across Elgin County. Presented by Nurse Next Door, the 26th annual event will take place on Tuesday, July 9th from 9 am to 2 pm at Pinafore Park in St. Thomas (95 Elm Street). What began in 1999 as a simple get-together has grown into one of the largest senior-focused events in the region, drawing over 1,500 attendees each year. Organized by a dedicated volunteer committee and supported through grants from the City of St. Thomas and the County of Elgin, the picnic has become a summer staple. “St. Thomas’ senior citizens know how to plan a premier park party!” laughs co-chair Sara Sweeny, who represents the Alzheimer Society on the organizing committee. “It’s a gathering of seniors from all over Elgin County, and each year it just keeps growing.” The picnic is much more than just a fun day in the sun. It’s a valuable hub of information, entertainment, and community engagement. With close to 50 vendors ex- pected, attendees can explore Vendor Alley — a showcase of services, resources, and programs tailored to those aged 55 and older, featuring everything from health and wellness to recreational opportunities and retirement planning. AD SAVE DIRECT RESPONSE MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com

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“There are so many different services people don’t even know exist until they come here,” says Sara. “It’s wonderful to see people leaving with their arms full of information and giveaways and big smiles on their faces.” Live music will once again fill the park, with a lively lineup that is guaranteed to get some of the crowd on their feet dancing, and others tapping their toes. Tifanie Smith, Volunteer Coordinator with the VON and a fellow picnic committee member, is especially proud of the event’s collaborative nature. “It’s such a great show of support for our beautiful community,” she says. “We have volunteers, vendors, and organizations from all over Elgin working together to put on something special for our seniors. That’s something I’m proud to be a part of.” In addition to music and vendors, the event will feature a classic car show sure to spark memories and conversation, a variety of food options from local vendors, and plenty of door prizes and giveaways. And while the event is based in St. Thomas, Sara is quick to remind residents it’s open to everyone. “Last year, we had seniors come from West Lorne, Union, and Port Stanley,” she says. “This is a county-wide celebration.” Perhaps most importantly, the picnic creates a sense of connection and belonging. “Seeing people laugh, reconnect, and enjoy the day—it’s the best part,” says Sara. “That’s what keeps us coming back year after year.” The event is free to attend, thanks to generous community support. Along with presenting sponsor, Nurse Next Door, this year’s event is supported by Royal Oak Senior Living (Vendor Alley sponsor), Studio Arts Music Academy & Rock School (Music sponsor), Simply Pure Water (Water sponsor), and Boomers & Beyond Magazine (Media sponsor). So mark your calendar and pack your lawn chair — Tuesday, July 9th, promises to be a joyful day filled with laughter, music, memories, and meaningful connections at Pinafore Park. The Seniors Picnic in the Park is back, and it’s better than ever.

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 7

Herta Schenk, Since 1924 by Peri Hayes

Radiating energy as a centenarian, Herta Schenk reflects on her adventure-filled life: “My life is a long story,” she begins with a laugh. While Herta’s mother and father are Russian, she was raised in Poland alongside her sister and three brothers. Herta shares her background in remarkable detail. Recollecting on her favourite decade, she beams about her time spent in Polish school -- specifically at age 12. “With my friends, these are good memories for me.” Herta vividly remembers WWII: “My brother and father were civilian prisoners in the coal mines.” She also sorrowfully describes icy treks through deep snow which reached her knees. Herta speaks about the poverty that her family experienced during her upbringing, as well as the painful separation from her sister for an entire year before receiving a letter assuring her wellbeing. As the story goes, Herta’s sister had been picked up on the train and met with their aunt who was heading west: “They had been travelling for weeks, searching cabin to cabin to find each other.” Herta describes this union to be that of a miracle. Herta would proceed to marry a soldier; a German man who became stationed in Romania. Ultimately, Herta’s loved ones would leave Poland. In 1949, she moved to Canada and raised her family of four children. As Herta declares, “My life started when I came to Canada, for

safety and freedom.” In Parry Sound, Ontario, their family cottage was enjoyed with their children for a number of years. This is where, as Herta highlights, she fell in love with fishing. Around the time of her birthday in 2021, Herta moved into a local retirement home. Nearing 101 years of age, a typical day for Herta entails drinking tea and exercising. Impressively, she thoroughly looks forward to walking on a daily basis. Alternately — and demonstrating a healthy balance — Herta enthuses with a smile, “My favourite thing to do is nap!” One of Herta’s most heartfelt accomplishments regards the book that she wrote, encompassing her life. She created this project as a means to put these memorable moments of world and personal history to paper, representing a keepsake for her stories. Years later and at the retirement home in which she resides, Herta also wrote for their newsletter.

Christmas is a fair way away; however, our work is never done. Our elves work year-round. Here are ways you can donate today: Via cheque mailed to: Elgin-St. Thomas Christmas Care P.O. Box 20016 St. Thomas, ON N5P 4H4 Or on our website at https://christmascarestthomas.com Or scan this QR Code:

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Through discussing what Herta considers to be one of the most valuable inventions of her lifetime, she calls attention to mail. She has sent letters to her loved ones over the years, often written in the German language. Herta appreciates the importance of remaining connected: “We may live far apart, but I am close with my family. We always know where each other are.” Last year, Herta had a fabulous birthday gathering with her family. She anticipates ringing in her upcoming birthday surrounded by love: “We hug and squeeze each other. It warms my heart seeing everyone so happy with

their own growing families.” Along with three daughters, Herta’s son is her eldest child. “He turns 70 this year,” Herta announces. Presently, Herta is focused on her six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as she lovingly voices, “One is still a baby.” Asked how Herta plans to celebrate her birthday on August 15th, she responds with wit, “100 years was enough. Parties are too much work. Of course, I will eat birthday cake!”

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 9

Continual Living, Loving and Learning at The Health Huttle by Peri Hayes Brought to you by Nurse Next Door

Nurse Next Door

Angie Mailhot, Owner of Railway City Health Hut, discusses their Health Huddle and what this valuable resource entails. This group launched several months after the store opened in November of 2019: “I have a 30-year background in health and wellness. As a means to support family and community health, there has been a desire since Day One to bring an education factor alongside the retail component of our store.” Immediately, Health Huddle received immense positive feedback. Attendance was high, and Angie shares the ways in which she and her colleagues were blown away by the response: “We are picking these sessions up in an even more authentic way based on what we’ve been through with COVID-19.” “As people need the connection nowadays, all events are in- person,” Angie announces. Welcoming enlightening panels from an array of businesses within St. Thomas and area, the following topics have been studied in previous sessions: the gain in eating locally grown and nutritious foods, highlighting strong sources, sharing recipes and more. This July 19th from 9:30 am until 11:00 am, the local venue of A Place in the Woods will facilitate a morning of connection. Offered to ages 18+, this is a free event during which Cathy Kostendt will be teaching the benefits of forest bathing. Meanwhile, Railway City Health Hut’s Store Manager, Katrina Farrow, will guide guests through further grounding resources. Through reconnection and unplugging, this is a time, as Katrina offers, “To be restored by nature with different activities from Cathy and I.” Angie continues, “The morning is going to be quite the experience in a serene environment -- connecting with the self, as well as realizing the value of these types of practices and what they do for us on a deep healing level. The immune benefits of these practices are amazing, and bringing this information to families creates a wave into the community.” On September 28th, the Steelway Railway City Road Races will be taking place at the CASO Station. Designed to support various sporting groups, both competitive and recreational, members of the public are welcome to uncover more about health, explore the featured businesses and practitioners, and so forth. Enjoyed as a hub, Angie enthuses, “This is a great event to be a part of.” Moreover, Angie shares Railway City Health Hut’s po- tential for creating a Mall Walking Group in the Elgin Centre. Offered at no cost, she describes the mall’s warm temperature throughout the winter and the comfortable air conditioning in the summertime.

Health Huddle events are advertised on the railway- cityhealthhut.ca website, where those interested are invited to register through a swift process. There will be further sessions focused on nutrition, women’s hormones and beyond. Beginning in September, these are interactive and free-of-charge opportunities -- with their full schedule for the year to be listed on the Railway City Health Hut website in August. They will also have a poster displayed in-store. Angie passionately concludes, “To restore and influence the community in health is a connection of many. We aim to be an educational resource while celebrating growth.”

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Page 10 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025

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It’s Back! St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3 Returns This Fall

Get ready for an evening of laughs, applause, and inspiring performances: St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3 is set to hit the stage on Saturday, November 1st at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. Presented by Nurse Next Door, this feel- good event will shine a spotlight on the incredible talents of our local senior community. Open to anyone aged 55 and up, auditions for this year’s event will take place on Thursday, October 2nd, at the Seniors Centre. From singers and musicians to comedians, dancers, magicians, rappers, and more, if you can perform it in five minutes or less, we want to see it! Aspiring contestants can register by emailing stthomasseniorsgottalent@gmail.com or calling Geoff at 519-495-7177. Those selected by the judging panel will be treated like stars, with a professional photo shoot courtesy of Candice Van Diepen of CVD Photography and the chance to perform on the big stage under dazzling lights. Special guest judges will once again be on hand to cheer on the finalists and select this year’s standout acts. The evening is more than just a talent show — it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and giving back. All proceeds will benefit Hospice of Elgin, helping support the incredible care they provide to local families.

WALNUT

WALNUT myFM, Metcalfe Gardens, Love Your Feet by Pam, The Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Briwood Farm Market, Seasons St. Thomas Retirement Home, the St. Thomas Seniors Centre, and Boomers & Beyond Magazine, this year’s event promises to be the biggest and best yet. Over the past two years, St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent has raised more than $4,800 for Hospice of Elgin and sold out both shows. Last year’s crowd was wowed by ten unforgettable performances, including the winning standout trumpet solo by Gene Corless, who will return this year for a special encore appearance. Whether you’re stepping into the spotlight or clapping from the audience, St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3 promises a night of joyful entertainment and meaningful impact. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us as we celebrate the amazing talents of Elgin County’s senior community, all while supporting a great cause.

Thanks to the generous support of sponsors — including Nurse Next Door, Elgin Audiology, Royal Oak Senior Living, Refined Rentals. Refined Rentals.

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 11

From Over the Hill: Peanut Butter by Peter Bloch-Hansen

and I do indulge in the occasional sweet treat. The key word here is ‘indulge’. I guess I’m just (proudly) old- fashioned enough to think that eating is for nourishment, not self-pleasuring. Don’t mistake me: I enjoy eating. I do it every day. Three times, even. And, I have to admit that when I look in the mirror, I see a little more ‘me’ than I would like. So while I’m not without sin, my peanut butter is innocent. And for my penance, I do clean and recycle the plastic containers. In case you feel I’m waxing preachy. Okay: I am. You’re perfectly entitled to hate me for it. Except that hating is not good. Oops! There I go again. I just can’t seem to stop wanting for people to take care of themselves. In my defence, I don’t really expect anyone people to pay any attention to me so, think me not a preacher, but a fool. Especially when I rant about peanut butter. Speaking of which, a little verse I wrote long ago: Crunchy peanut butter is what it’s all about Crunchy peanut butter makes your tummy firm and stout; Crunchy peanut butter keeps you warm in frosty weather And crunchy peanut butter makes your gums all stick together.

I love the stuff. Eat it several times a week, for breakfast on whole wheat toast (yes, with coffee). I like the crunchy kind – eating something I have to crush makes me feel I’m achieving

something, or at least, earning the nutrition. I admit to buying it in plastic containers -- plastic, bad: glass, good (repeat three times) – because the butter is generally much fresher and DOESN’T CONTAIN ANY SUGAR!!! Properly roasted, lightly salted peanuts are delicious. That’s why people eat mountains of them every year! So why, in the name of all that’s holy, do people put sugar in peanut butter? Sugar is for candy, pastry, cake, pudding and cookies, none of which are actually good for us, all of which are mostly bad for us. But the humble peanut? The USDA says 1 ounce of dry-roasted peanuts contains: 18% fat; 5% sodium; 2% carbohydrates; 10% or 2 grams dietary fibre, and 15 vitamins and minerals. Pretty good, eh? Good for seniors, better for kids. So again; why make something good for us into something bad for us? Could it have anything to do with seducing children to reach for sweet, not in desserts, but in actual food? For profit? I have nothing against dessert, though I use fresh fruit for that (keeps things moving down below)

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Page 12 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025

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Summer Music and Movies

7 In Dirty Dancing, her nickname was this, and no one puts her in a corner 9 Grease song with summer in the title 10 This ‘75 classic had people scared of the water 11 These Boys are Surf Rock Legends 13 Classic Beach Blanket this 14 A coming-of-age journey where they go to find a body ‘_____ by me’

15 Jimmy Buffett hit: ‘Margaritaville’ lost his what 16 Katrina & The Waves: ‘Walking on ___’ Down 1 Elvis film: Blue 2 Bananarama sang about this type of Summer 4 Jan & Dean’s beach hit: ‘Surf ___’ 6 A 2000s romcom starring Mandy Moore ‘A Walk to ___’

Across 3 War-time romance on a tropical island ‘South ________’ 5 B-52s hit with beach vibes: ‘Rock ___’ 7 Seals & Crofts hit ‘Summer ________’ 8 Olivia Newton-John’s role in Grease 11 The Drifters sang ‘Under the ________’ 12 Iconic summer camp film 14 A group of boys play baseball here, in this movie

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 13

Holy Writing, Batman! by Terry Carroll On Saturday, May 17, 2025, at St. Thomas Public Library, former St. Tho- mas Times-Journal reporter (turned adjunct prof at Redeemer University) Thomas Froese, said something foolish to Elgin Writers Guild mem- bers and interested members of the

a closer relationship with God by engaging in exercises or practice that originated with St. Benedict. Here’s a brief summary: Number One: The first rule of the spiritual life is: Show up. Bring the real you to the real God. Number Two: Do not despair. Aridity is not foreign to the spiritual path, but do not lose hope. Number Three: Don’t leave. Plant roots. Build a life. In a place. With people. Don’t bail out. Number Four: Do not expect perfection. Number Five: Examine yourself regularly. Start where you are, not where you wish you could be. Do those rules apply to the writing life? Why, yes, they do. 1. Show up . Put bum in chair regularly. You may not be writing well, but it is your writing. Better to write poorly than to write nothing. 2. Do not despair. You will often feel like nobody will ever publish what you are writing because it is so godawfully unpublishable. Do not lose hope. All good writing is rewriting. 3. Don’t leave. When you become convinced that no sane human would ever publish your rubbish, it will be tempting to abandon the whole enterprise and do something far more profitable and sensible like selling mutual funds. Instead of bailing out, reorganize your life so you make a living somehow while carving out time to put bum in your seat. Regularly. Whatever ‘regularly’ means to you. 4. Number Four: Do not expect perfection. Rewriting can be an infinite game. Know when to stop. 5. Know thyself . Keep an eye on what you’re good at. And what readers respond to among the muck you eventually show the world. Don’t try to write like Stephen King. Many of the thousands of words he penned are overwritten junk. Not so different from yours. 6. What? Six points? Remember Jesus came for spinners of dross and debris and dreck like you. The perfect didn’t need him. Terry can be reached writing barely publishable dross any day of the week, sometimes even on Sundays. Email: terry@carrollgroup.ca.

public: “Your writing group is doing something very valuable by meeting regularly to talk about writing and words … There’s something sacred and holy about working with words and story.” Say what? Sacred? Holy? Are you high, Professor Tom? Good sir, you have to know, or know of, writers who are drunks, weirdos, junkies, freaks … or at the very least obsessive-compulsive introverts, control freaks, unreliable parents, liars. Then again, here’s what Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, Marilynne Robinson, has a preacher man say in her novel Gilead: “For me, writing has always felt like praying”. Oddball Presbyterian Church minister, Kirk Winslow, in his Jesus At 2 AM podcast, has a series called Loving God 101 , an introduction to spiritual formation. In this five-part series, Winslow makes the case that anyone can develop Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177 Copy Editor: Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome. Please email hometown@villagerpublications.com. We look forward to hearing from you. oomers oomers B and EYOND B

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BADDA BOOM! by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail com

If you want lasting change, you have to give up this idea of just trying something out… that means not just ‘dabbling,’ but fully immersing yourself. – Tony Robbins

Robbins contends that goals are not achieved by what we do some of the time, but by what we do consistently. Wrote Jim Collins in his book Good to Great: “Good is the enemy of great.” Why improve what already works if ‘good enough’ is good enough? These success gurus make sound arguments, and I believe in the merits of ‘mastery’. However, there comes a time when one’s ideal achievement may take on different dimensions and definitions. The third chapter of life justly justifies a pause to consider your cause, your motivation, your ‘WHY’. Thus, there is much to be said in the defence of dabbling, and the prospects for putterers. But first, let’s define: Dabbling: to try out or casually pursue a particular activity or interest for one’s enjoyment Puttering: to occupy oneself pleasantly, doing tasks to fix, solve, or improve something ‘Dabbling’ and ‘puttering’ take on new significance in a world that has changed significantly. Our healthy longevity has vastly exceeded retirement age; only 37% of Canadian retirees have registered pension plan coverage; nearly half of us surveyed are rethinking retirement as a ‘re-firement’; an opportunity to pursue our next big chapter with revenue in mind. Dabbling and puttering can lead to profitable possibilities; successful companies do it all the time through research and development initiatives that lead to innovations. They keep the good parts, ditch the rest, and keep on testing new ideas. Learning from failure is the key to success. How does this serve us in our pursuit of what’s next? Let’s ditch the notion of a giant leap and take risks in small steps. Why not pursue what you enjoy doing and do well? This isn’t just theory; there are scores of familiar examples: A PSW who worked in a retirement home for thirty years at minimum wage. A few friends referred family members whose need for support to age-in-place allowed her to replace her job. Through a network, her service has expanded to provide home maintenance, meal planning and preparation. How about a retired friend of mine who has become an award-winning artist by simply pursuing dabbling on canvas! See Debrab@delzenart.com. Her friend, a realtor, posts on Instagram as #artdabblidoo. Then there are those DIY guys who putter to fix stuff and, by providing handyman services, can enjoy the flexibility of part-time hours. What’s consistent? Continuous curiosity is a magic formula for transition to one’s next big chapter. There’s no need for commitment; let your curiosity wane or win. Just follow the mantra: ‘Do what you love and the money will follow.’ Give yourself some time and then ask the question: Am I having fun yet? If not, move on. As Albert Einstein once opined: “When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change.” Badda Bing!

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • July-August 2025 Page 15

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