Life seems to rush by … and I gather it gets faster as one gets older …
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| Donna's badge for her WBOYC post |
Donna with her blogging friends started this – at least two of them are on Vancouver Island, when I was there, but we only blog-connected as I was leaving …
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| Tai Chi - c/o Wiki solo forms - Taolo form - painting from 1300s |
I keep myself rather well occupied, but need to do more walking, and thought I'd start Tai Chi, with Qigong, at home on a daily basis – something I used to do … and include breath exercises as an extra … I need to work a schedule out
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| Overview |
For ten months of the year … I co-ordinate a dinner for our European Movement Members at a local hotel … we're only at 50 – 60 at the moment, but hope to climb back up.
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| I've omitted contact details for obvious reasons, I hope - |
This keeps me occupied for the first fortnight or so of each month – meaning there's no peace for the wicked in January – even if it's a birthday month.
I belong to the Eastbourne Meads, University of the Third Age and Bazza on his blog – gives an overview of the organisation … for which I'm very grateful to be able to refer you to.
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| Eastbourne Meads U3A welcome image - showing off Beachy Head lighthouse by the white cliffs |
Each group has different programmes depending on its members … I go to History (and give the odd talk), Memoir/Writing, Music Appreciation … I've just started, as our Geology/Life Science 'maestro' has just decided to stop – many of us will miss that class. For the next five months I'm organising the Speaker for our monthly meeting – I enjoy that.
Re our 'maestro' – as a final farewell he made an interesting comment … saying that although it was a lot of work (he was very,very thorough!) … he'd loved doing it – as he learnt so much … remind you all of us: bloggers?! I feel like I'm getting a University degree – granted an eclectic one to put it mildly – but 'boy' have I learnt.
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| Just finishing off the artwork 'Dance Diagonal' as the new piece of art for the Towner Art Gallery |
I go to the local film society films – exceedingly interesting – held in the local art gallery, as too various other more avant-garde films …
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| Fuseli's 'NightMare' painted 1790-91 one of his variations on the theme (Erasmus Darwin underscored his short poem 'Night-Mare') |
Then finally I belong to a Read Aloud group in the library – we bring something relevant to that week's topic to read … tomorrow is Dreams/ Nightmares – a few minutes worth of reading … we don't discuss much – as the schedule doesn't allow. (Tomorrow's reading solved -on looking for an appropriate image!)
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| Penguin Classics |
Also I'm incredibly lucky as I can walk or bus to most things … being one of the eldest left in the clan, I've done my caring role – and so can spend a little time on me. Lots to read too …
This was longer than intended … but c'est la vie … this year I must be more organised – re diaries … my online one prompts me … but most is in my head … that curious brain I'm very thankful for … I have a paper one I want to start using …
Donna's Retirement Reflections blog ...
Bazza's blog: To Discover Ice - University of the Third Age (U3A) ...
Big Think - How You Breathe ...
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
44 comments:
An interesting variety! I haven’t joined u3a year, but i gave a talk to the local history group last year and thought their programme looked interesting, so i really should. However, time, as you say, rushes by and I’m not short of things to do.
That should be - I haven’t joined YET!
Hari OM
I've just had a good giggle at the thought of you having a paper brain you want to use...😂 January has been busy my side only in respect to researching lots of additional links for the rather deep and heavy posts I have embarked upon this year. My (January-born) sister is with me this week and has a similar brain to yours, methinks, as I tried to explain to her that flipping a photograph on the computer does not mean she is looking at it from the other shore... Bring on "Fearbruary"... YAM xx
You do keep busy! That's good. Think of everything you are learning through those experiences.
I love (and am unsurprised) by your very varied interests. You are much busier than I am. A big yes to learning a huge amount here in the blogosphere though.
Wow, your calendar is very full. And your life is just as eclectic as your blog, which I suppose is where it all started!
@ Anabel - you'll enjoy being part of the U3A ... yet I understand you've got a whole going on too ... I'd love to be nearer Glasgow - so I could come and listen to some of your talks, and enjoy some walks with you ...
@ Yam - oh yes I see ... my paper brain ... has got its grammar wrong or haywire ...
I know your researching is pretty amazing - I can't get that deep ... I struggle when I'm reading. How very lovely that your January born sister (good month for us!) is with you - bet you're having a lovely time.
If your poor sister has a brain like mine - I feel for her ... perhaps I could try that flipping thing with the Channel, rather than the Clyde?!
Way too fast - that 'Fearbruary' is so close ... but at least it's warming up, and the light is getting longer - so looking forward to Spring!
@ Alex - My brain keeps busy, other things ... like actually getting on with the doing seems to be missing out sometimes - must adjust this year ... but yes I do learn from all that's going on: that's the best ...
@ EC - the blog has opened my eyes to so much ... I was never so open to ideas as I am now ... way too open apparently ... love it though ...
@ Annalisa - well some are only once a month - but regular and I enjoy being busy, as you've probably gathered.
Though you're right re the blog - the eclecticism started here ... so I post about it ... describes the whole of my last 18 years or so ...
Grateful to receive your receptive / positive comments - thank you ... cheers Hilary
You have many interests. It's lovely that you can be a joiner and learn even more.
Love,
Janie
You have a full calendar! Great variety, great learning, much happiness. Wish you more of each.
Wow, you're busy.
What fun interests you have. I haven't been too busy so far this year, but the days go fast regardless.
Teresa
University of the Third Age here (in Melbourne) has also been brilliant since it started in the mid 1980s. Those of us who are retiring, and need to plan for their future, are usually delighted to find intellectual and social activities, without the pressure of university obligations. I am most interested in arts, history and literature. Others love science, nutrition and fitness.
@ Janie - yes ... I'm lucky to have lots of options around here and can be stimulated to learn more ...
@ Nila - there is a lot going on - I really should make full use of life - I tend to wilt at times, so need to eliminate the wilting this year!
@ Liz - thanks ... I'm enjoying the learning ...
@ Teresa - we're lucky they're available in the town. You've got time to adjust now to your retirement situation ... as life settles in - and yes the days sure do go fast ...
@ Hels - the U3A has certainly spread its wings - good for us all. I was thrilled to come across it and various other groups in and around Eastbourne - I've learnt loads in conjunction with the blog. Bloggers can learn so much from each other - with our interests or take on life ...
Cheers - life is fascinating ... so much to learn and to appreciate - thanks for your visits ... Hilary
You lead an eclectic and busy life, Hilary, which does not surprise me in the slightest. If I knew that you were responsible for organizing the speakers at any club meeting I would be sure to reserve the evening. I know that I would be in for an interesting time. I hope you will continue with this whirlwind of intellectual stimulus and creative learning until your poor old bones don't creak any more. I know that I intend to. You will be part of it too. Your over-the-ocean admirer - David
Well, you put me to shame. Without people like you, nothing would ever be organised. Your speakers sound most interesting - it's good to touch on subjects one might not normally experience. It's all good for the brain and we never stop learning.
My goodness, Hils. I don't think I could keep up with your schedule.
Gosh, you are busy, Hilary! Seeing your activities there in Eastbourne reminds me I have a memoir writing friend and contact who lives in Eastbourne. He’s aso a blogger. I think he might enjoy your European evenings if he isn’t already a member. Does the name Robert Fear ring any bells?
Ag, my comment has disappeared again! I’ll email you, Hilary, but your life sounds full and very rewarding! No wonder you are always so busy.
And I thought I was busy! You'll have fun selecting speakers for each meeting.
Excellent variety in your life - I am impressed. I think you show that a curious mind does keep one active, social, and always learning. Very fun! As you know from my blog, I read a lot, go to museums, musicals, etc. Plus plenty of socializing with friends. And now we've joined our local YMCA gym and are quite active with water aerobics, cardio, and walking. Whew! I admire your community activity and it's something I need to explore locally. Your blog is joyous and I always appreciate your comments on mine. Cheers to a continued happy, healthy, busy 2023
Oh, wow, all those groups sound fascinating!
I miss doing Tai Chi, I haven't found a good class nearby yet. And I've let my yoga practice lapse in the past month too... Hopefully with spring coming, I'll pick up the habit again!
@ David - yes ... I'm wondering if most of my present state came from when my Ma was ill and I needed to be prepared to talk with her about a variety of subjects - and to find which ones she was interested in, or particularly when I was sent home - to google subjects and report back! Also I had my uncle, whom I spent a lot of time with in his later life, who was very bright ...
I have learnt an incredible amount in the past sixteen+ years .. just by being open to new subjects - and I'm happy doing things in the background to help others. Now the blog has centre stage in my thinking ...
I've enjoyed the Speaker's Role - sadly due to developments I've decided to withdraw. However my brain and various member roles will continue - I sincerely hope for as long as the bones hold together ... also I send my admiration back to you and Miriam in bonny Canada!
@ Janice - I don't think I do a lot - strange isn't it ... but I agree one needs to volunteer ... and these roles stimulate me ... as you say we never need to stop learning ...
@ Sandra - there's a lot of space in my schedule ... I just need to get ahead of myself ...
@ Val - thanks for your thoughts and two comments ... you're going to open the door to your Memoir friend ... and perhaps we'll meet up - we (you/ or him) never know do we ...
@ Diane - I feel I could and should easily do more ... and this year is the year for catching my tail ... but I enjoy being busy ...
@ Joanne - I do most certainly leading an eclectic and full life - catching up after years of not being that well versed educationally.
Yes - I know you too explore so much and then offer me other ideas to investigate/ think about - which I enjoy. I must do more exercise ... my friends tend to be scattered around the world - always have been, so no change there - and other friends here in Eastbourne and England ... let alone relatives.
Thanks for the positive take on my blog - I'm somewhat amazed at its happening - but so happy people come over and enjoy ...
@ Deniz - good to see you ... yes life is certainly interesting here ... and I must get into Tai Chi, and exercise more this year. I agree - now Spring is almost here ... we'll feel happier to do a bit more ...
Thanks to you all - it's odd ... I don't think I do enough ... I've a few other 'friends' who do way more than I do ... so this year is to balance my life a little more. Still I love blogging and the learning that comes out of it ... I also don't have children - so no commitments to worry about there ... cheers and thanks so much for visiting - Hilary
What a great array of activities! And wow oh wow, you keep busy!
Oh my, Hilary! You are one busy and active woman. All of that and you still find time to blog post, visit around, and comment. I wish there were some kind of Eastbourne European Movement here where I live. Many people are still so firmly set in their "beliefs" and don't have any inclination to have a civilized discussion.
Lavish all that attention on you, Hilary! Yes!!! And I applaud your choice of Tai Chi and Qigong. Perfect.
A nice positive post! Thanks for the mention!
CLICK HERE for Bazza’s righteously rebarbative Blog ‘To Discover Ice’
You are such an inspiration, dear Hilary! I only hope to have the time one day to experience the joy of so many interactive events. No wonder you have such clarity of thought and peace of mind ;-)
Happy February!
Gosh, you keep yourself busy Hilary! And I'd love to do Tai-chi. Love your involvement with WEP too. Always something different from you!
I'm not sure how you cram all of this in. You must be very busy. I'd need breathing exercises just to catch my breath. I think it's wonderful of you to step in and share what you know with others. So many things we'd never pursue become interesting once presented by a knowledgeable person. I hope to attend some discussions like this, at a local historical society, later this year. That pales by comparison to organizing and attending them monthly, but it's a start.
My goodness, you are a busy bee! I'm surprised you have time for meet-ups with friends, but I'm really pleased that you do!
@ Holly - thanks ... I enjoy being occupied ...
@ Bish - well there are committees and I only do the bits I'm allocated to help with. Yes the European Movement is an organisation I enjoy being a part of - there are any number of member organisations around the UK - it's sad ... people can't at least open their minds to look at other aspects of life ...
@ Lee - thank you ... I think I"m catching up on my education rather late in life ... but the Ta Chi and Qiqong are essentials ...
@ Bazza - I'm glad I did - because your post on the U3A organisation is really useful - well timed too ... thank you!
@ Diedre - I just keep myself occupied ... I don't have a family - so really need to be stimulated - I suspect the blog set me off, also needing new ideas to talk to my mother and uncle in their last years ... I've learnt a lot ...
@ Denise - you've other things to occupy you ... teaching and family. I'm glad I plucked up courage to 'join' WEP - I enjoy the thought process in writing something up ...
@ Dan - to me ... it's not a lot (though I sort of hate to say that!!) ... but I just need to be occupied, so much can change as one ages ... I no longer play sport - but now my brain gets the exercise!
You've raised or prompted some thoughts that I need to think about - and maybe post on ... Oh that's great you're going to visit and attend some of the local history groups - you'll learn lots: enjoy.
@ Keith - I'm fairly independent - but do enjoy meeting up with friends ...
Thanks so much - you've set me off in other directions ... perhaps next month's WBOYC will have a few other thoughts on my journey ... appreciate your comments ... cheers Hilary
You're a busy lady. And time certainly flies for those of us who are busy!
That's wonderful that you can mostly walk and bus. A nice bennie.
@ Sherry - well time is of my own making - and I prefer to be busy and can be ... so am lucky in that respect ... while as you say time flies for us busy bees ...
@ Sandra - yes I am lucky with the transport and ability to be able to walk around relatively easily - especially by the seaside!
Cheers to you both - thanks for the visits ... Hilary
Looking back means you go forward with all this knowledge you have accumulated. You are truly busy! I enjoyed hearing about your adventures.
I love that you continue to learn. Good on you, Hils.
What a busy schedule but it does sound fun and stimulating. I checked and there is a u3a near me at the Vanderbilt University in Nashville. I am not sure if it is the same program as yours – they offer classes, some meeting four times per class, some more, costing from $60 to $100 per class; they are full now for the winter (Membership is $350.) They do not meet out of those classes. Since I still have to drive to Atlanta every month I could not attend any of these classes. Once I am finished with Atlanta I think I’ll do more. But still now, since it is taking me so long my daughter told me to enjoy my time in Georgia. So in January I attended the Atlanta Opera for Mozart’s Don Giovanni and in March it will be Don Quixote at the Atlanta Ballet, at least it is something.
You have a lot of energy for sure.
@ Susan - I know (some of) the jigsaw puzzle of life sits amongst my blog posts - my knowledge has definitely expanded and as you say accumulated. Thanks - delighted you enjoyed 'my monthly joys of life' ...
@ Sandra - yes - an essential ... i think I missed out this side of my education as a kid and adult - too easily playing sport ...
@ Vagabonde - good to see you again. You've always had an interesting life ... I'll be over to read your latest post and comment properly, probably tomorrow.
The U3A originated in France (I think) - when the Brits copied it - it was adapted to our British culture, and each country has similarly adapted. I'm not sure if it's in the States - I suspect it might be just Commonwealth countries - though no doubt something similar in the US.
Enjoy the Opera and the Ballet - I enjoy them, but only go on occasions ... you've lots to do in and around Nashville ...
Thanks to the three of you - cheers Hilary
That Tai Chi painting is from the 1300s? That's amazing.
I think learning is the way to stay young. You are one busy woman. I love it! I've often thought of doing Tai Chi. Supposed to help with balance, I could use some of that.
Happy Birthday??? Belated!!! Sorry.
I need to walk more too. I've been lazy.
Cheers,
Dear Hilary, this post explains why you know so much about everything. You may remember I asked you some time ago. I'm doing well, hoping to get back to regular blogging soon. The post surgery brain fog has been very, hm, foggy.
Happy Valentine's Day:)
@ Sandra - thanks for your three comments ... I was really interested to see the Ta Chi painting from the 1300s ... wonderful to have that record from 800 years ago. Now WEP has come around ... perhaps Spring will arrive and make me feel more lively ... ever hopeful?! I had a quiet Valentine's Day ... good food to myself from Marks and Spencer - all well!
@ Renee - no worries re the birthday ... and yes must start full exercising and blow (WEP) those winter blues away! I do need to do more ... Spring is almost here ...
@ Inger - wonderful to see you - I do remember you asking and I tried to answer - but blogging really has been the jigsaw puzzle to my busyness and just learning as I go ...
So pleased your brain-fog is slowly clearing ... being foggy is just wearing - take care and look after yourself.
Thanks so much for coming by ... cheers Hilary
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