Embracing Life Over 60
Living Life On My Terms
and
Encouraging Everyone To Live Their Best Life, Whatever That Means To Them & Regardless Of Age!
April 13, 2024-Live Your best life
What does "Live Your Best Life" really mean?
I think there is a huge missconception on what "Live Your Best Life" really means.
With so many people watching social media and seeing others doing fabulous things, visiting exotic places and enjoying fancy material items, I think that's what many of us think it's all about.
But, it isn't.
When I look the meaning up online, I see a few different discriptions, but for me I think the one that really captures the essence of it, is the following:
" Living your best life essentially means living a life that makes you happy and also one that allows you to be at your full potential. It's about being intentional with the way you choose to live and living life on your own terms. It also means leveling up to be the best version of yourself that you can possibly be."
Is that what you thought it meant?
And, you know what this comes down too? Knowing Yourself! Taking the time, to get to know what YOU really like. Not your husband, boyfriend, friends, family or what society thinks will make you happy.
For me, and because I live a single life, I have had the time to really figure out what makes me happy and how to achieve it. And what I have come to realize, for me, is how much I love my freedom and independence, which allowis me to live life on my terms. It's also what makes me unique and special and I have come to embrace and appreciate this part of me.
So, my question to you is, what does "living your best life" mean to you?
If you aren't sure yet, my advice would be to spend time on your own and really get to know yourself, and to learn to love the special human being that you are!
February 12, 2024-Single on Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day can be challenging for a single person
Valentine's Day can be hard for a single person. Society sets so many expectactions on people to be in a relationship, and this holiday only reinforces it, often making singles feel isolated and lonely.
I have been single for enough years now that this holiday no longer affects me, but I do remember when it did, and I have some advice on how to overcome the feelings of loniliness this day may cause.
First, I think it is important that you beleive and love yourself. Your happinessis is within YOU, and you should not expect it to come from anyone else. Sure, others can bring you happiness, but you've got to like yourself first for genuine happiness. If you don't love yourself, how can you expect someone else too?
Through my years of singletom, I have come up with a few ways to approach Valentine's Day.
For many years, I just treated it like any other day. It's a mind set and that simple. And this has worked for me.
But in the later years, I have seen it in a different way.
If you are single, how about you celebrate yourself instead? Treat yourself to flowers or chocolate. Take yourself out to lunch. Have a spa day. Or, go shopping and buy yourself something special!
If you were in a relationship, you would be spending money on your significant other. Instead spend it on yourself and get yourself a treat, or do something you would really like to do. You deserve it!
Many people in relationships are dissapointed with V-Day because it didn't live up to their expectations, but as a solo person, you can make it the perfect day for yourself! This is also a great way to get to know yourself and learn to appreciate the qualities that make you special.
Additionally, instead of focusing on your "lack of" take the time to achowledge the people you care for in your life: send cards, say "hi" and show your appreciation to them. No one is an island, and although you may be single, surely you have people in your life that make your life meaningful and who support you and vice versa. Show them some love!
This year, I am taking my 89 yr old Mom out to lunch. It should be fun!
Happy Valentine's Day!
Love YOUSELF first!
January 24, 2024-My Over 60 Wellness Journey
Wow! The holidays just flew by and now it's 2024!
Oops! It's been over 2 months since I last posted. What happened? Okay, the holiday season hit and that always keeps me busy. I like the holidays. I enjoy the lights, the food, time with friends and family and even the hustle and bustle. I usually have Christmas at my house and that means decorating, pulling out the china, polishing silver, planning recipes and of course food and gift shopping, and this year was no exception. So, I am going to make that my excuse as to why I haven't posted in awhile and stick with it!
But now, it's over 3 weeks into January and I need to get back into a routine. I started a Wellness Journey on December 30 and it was going great! I am working with a holistic, midlife health coach, @jacqui_garrison and she is helping me fine tune my lifestyle, by eating more protein, changing up my workout routines and a few other great tips to help with my personal issues: getting drowsy in the afternoon, better sleep and droping the holiday pounds.
Things where going great, until I decided to take a road trip to the Palm Springs area to visit a friend. I had a wonderful time, It was nice to enjoy some sunshine after the typical winter rain and grey skies we have in Northern California this time of year.
But then, I broke my routine. I didn't workout much, I had some cocktails (and a fun time) and ate some things I shouldn't have and once that happened, even though I got home and planned to get back to my disciplined life, it always takes a few days for me to get back into the groove.
But now I have, and I plan to keep it up as best I can.
I am well aware, that travel always throws me off. I know I need a routine to keep me in line.
However, for me, a healthy lifestyle isn't just a quick fix to lose a few pounds. It's a way of life. And "yes" I may screw up every now and then, or just enjoy the moment with good friends and food, but the important thing is I get back on track!
I still have so many things I want to do in life and it's important I stay healthy so I can accomplish them.
I love this quote by Jim Rohn, "take care of your body, it's the only place you have to live"
It's time to clean my house!
October 19,2023-How much did my trip cost?
How much did I spend on a 12-day solo trip to the French Riviera?
I think people often wonder how I am able to afford to travel as much as I do, and it's really simple. I don't really spend that much money on it! I thought I would share how much and what I spent my money on for my latest 12 day solo trip to the fabulous French Riviera, and I will recap with an expense report.
First of all, throughout the year, I put everything on a miles acrruing credit card, and I pay my card off each month so I am not paying interest, but acquiring as many miles as possible. Because of that my flights for this trip where free, except for a small $100.00 expense.
I took Uber to and from the airport, but I could have saved money by taking the train.
Next, I always rent an Airbnb with a kitchen, and washing machine and within walking distince to many sights. I chose Nice as my base camp. My place was a 5 minute walk to the beach, 15 minutes to the train station, public transportation was right outside, along with stores, and great restaurants. It was a perfect location for me!
I start my day with coffee at home and some yogurt, fruit, or croissant, and typically only eat at a restuarant for one meal, It's usually lunch. It's cheaper and I think not as awkward to dine alone at that time. I usually have leftovers from my restaurant meal, and take them back to my place, so I can have them later. I like to eat snacks so in the afternoon I may pick up a pastry or gelato, or try something I never have had before.
On this trip I bought some delicious "grab and go" salads from a grocery store close by. They were not a typical grocery store salad, these were fresh and gourmet and I kept them stocked in my refrigerator. Delicious!
I don't drink much anymore and especially, while traveling solo, so that's a cost savisngs.
My first outing was a trip to the medival town of Eze. I took public transportation and although wandering the town was free, it was about $5.00 to get into the beautiful cacti and succulent garden that also had spectacular views.
I only went to one museum this trip, mainly because The Mattise Museum was temporarily closed and their was a line at the Picasso Museum in Antibes that I didn't want to wait in. I have already seen many of both their exhibits, so I didn't feel like I totally missed out. In my past travels, I have purchased City Passes, that allow you to visit a few museums for one price and you don't have to wait in line. They are worth it if they include the museums you want to visit.
I had a lovely day at the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild that included lunch and entry to the villa and 9 gardens. Money well spent.
I took day trips to Cannes, Antibes and Monte Carlo all by train and once I figured out how to purchase the tickets, it was very easy!
While in Monte Carlo, I thought I should go to the famous Casino. It cost $18.00 to get in and I quickly lost $50.00 at the roullette table, but at least I can say I gambled at The Casino Monte Carlo! It was fun and for me worth it.
I took an amazing day tour via Viator up into the French Alps and visited some gorgeous villiages and stopped at The Verdon Gorge and did some Kayaking. It was a fabulous tour and I would do that one again. Also, these types of tours can be a great way to spend time with people and socialize, which is sometimes needed when traveling alone.
I spent a lovely day at a Beach Club in Nice and spent money on a chaise lounge with towel and umbrella. I also had a delicious lunch here and enjoyed my time swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, talking to some millennials sitting next to me, and feeling pampered by the waitstaff.
My biggest expense was parking at SFO airport, which seemed to make the most sense for me on this trip. but you could definetely save money by doing it differently.
Please keep in mind I like to walk around and just see the sights and take it all in, so it is easy for me to have a full day and only spend money on food. I know not everyone travels like this, but it works for me, and my budget.
I have not included any items I bought for myself or gifts, because that is subjective.
So here is the breakdown:
Flights $100.00
Airbnb (12 nights) $1,200.00
SFO Parking $350.00
Uber/Tip $65.00
Trains & Public Trans. $50.00
Villa Ephrussi w/lunch/Tip $65.00
Museum & Eze Garden $15.00
Beach Club $30.00
Casino $75.00
Viator Tour/Tip $165.00
Food/Tip $300.00
Total: $2,415.00
But here's, the thing, I would have spent money on food at home too, so you could technically subtract how much you would typically spend at home in that time period. For me that would easily be $200.00.
Also, I did not include money for food at the airport, which is so expensive and something I probably should include when budgeting. I usually bring some snacks and a reusable water bottle to cut down on airpot expenses.
Additionally, I have inflated the prices a bit based on the current money exchange rates, so these prices are in line with the U.S dollar, not Euros.
What do you think? Is that what you would have expected? More, or Less?
I love the South of France!
September 18, 2023
The last few weeks have been interesting...
Overall things have been good. I realize how fortunate I am to live the life I am livng. I have had the opportunity to take a couple of road trips that had been on my list for a while. One was to Ashland, Oregon to visit old friends. It was wonderful to spend time with them. They were friends of my Dad's and have known me since I was 8 and are now in their eighties, and are like family to me.
I think one of the nice things about growing older, is you appreciate and value your relationships so much more then when you are younger. We had a good time reminescing and getting caught up on our lives
The town of Ashland, OR is so cute. It was fun to wander around and see it's charm and we even went to a dinner show and saw Kinky Boots. It was a blast!
I finally made it to Yosemite last week. It had been on my list since the spring. Due to the stellar snow pack, I knew the falls would be amazing, but first their was flooding in the spring and then like me, everyone wanted to see the falls this year, so I waited until after Labor Day and went on a Wednesday, which turned out to be the perfect plan. I didn't have to wait to get through the park entrance and I was able to find parking.
There was a bit of a setback. My goal was to hike to Vernal Falls to see my favorite waterfall, but the short Mist Trail was closed and the signs suggested an alternative trail that was about 1.5 miles. I thought "no Problem" Well, that turned out be a trek! Rather then the easy Mist Trail that ends at the bottom of the falls, this trail (I didn't know this until I got there) goes up and over the falls, which means it was all up hill and with the altitude increase it proved to be very challenging. Not just for me for many people of all ages. However, I pride myself on hiking in hills, so the fact I didn't do well was a big reality check for me. I realize I am getting older, but if I want to complete the things I still have to achieve in life, I am going to need to take better care of myself: up my activity, flexibility, and eat better. In a way, it was a good wake up call to create a plan of action to stay healthy.
I also purchased a blowup kayak a few months ago and finally have started to use it, which has been amusing. I find it very relaxing to spend time on the water.
Additionally, I have been spending time with some of my new friends here in Lodi, CA and it's been fun to continue our exploration of our new hometown. We even went to the Annual Grape Festival and took in the sites, foods, and played games as if we were kids again!
I also am happy to report that my Social Media prescence is starting to slowly take off and I am glad to see my hard work is paying off!
This all sounds great doesn't it? It is and I have so much gratitude for my life.
The one thing that I am having a hard time with is my Mother is aging and it is hard to watch someone who once had so much vitality slip away and become a shell of the person she once was. I know I too should be thankful I still have a living parent, and I am. However, it is sad to see someone you love so much decline. She is now 89 and living in a small assisted living home, but I am not sure how much longer she will be able to stay there, before she needs to be moved to a nursing home facility. I call her everyday and try to visit her as much as possible. She is about 1 1/2 hours away.
So that's it, It's life isn't it? You take the good and the bad and make the best of it all. It's all we really can do isn't it? Be thankful for what we have and make sure our loved ones know we care for them.
June 23, 2023
I turned 62!
I have been contemplating this birthday for a few weeks now. 62 seems like an odd age. I am officially over the hill, but I don't feel "old" yet.
Sure, I have some aches and pains every now and then, I no longer like to drive at night, or stay out late for that matter. But, I also don't feel like I am missing out on anything because of it.
I am still living a great life, in fact, I feel like my life is better then ever.
It's interesting to me that you don't hear much about this time of life.
First, I want to say, I know I am fortunate that I am healthy. I try to take care of myself and I have pretty good genes. I am also grateful that I was able to retire at 61, and the purpose of me doing that is so that I could enjoy these years while I am in good health and capable of doing just about everything I want to physically and mentally.
Why don't we talk about this age range more? I think it's partially because growing up in my generation, people in their 60's were considered old. But things are changing, people are taking better care of themselves and modern medicine is helping us stay healthy and live longer. Additionally, health topics like: exercise, eating and sleeping habits are widely discussed and hopefully people are making better choices that affect their quality of living in their 60's and beyond because of it.
It seems funny to me that younger people often times do still think that I am old, because I feel like I just started living.
So, here I am, happier then ever! I knew when I retired, my life would be less stressful and I would have more time to do the things I wanted to do, but what I am really enjoying and didn't expect, is being able to just be me, without the constraints of job expectations. For me that means freedom: with my time and being my authentic self, rather than a representative of a corporation.
Additionally, I don't care what others think of me anymore. It is such a liberating and carefree way to live! It's too bad most of us don't learn this lesson until later in life.
With age comes wisdom and along with that peace of mind. I have no time or need for drama. I enjoy the little things in life, taking a walk, visiting with friends and family and literally stopping to smell the roses. I do this quite often!
I feel fortunate to be in this place of contentment, because I do understand that not everyone has this luxury. However, I think a lot of my happiness comes from my positive perspective.
Isn't that really what it's all about? I can choose to celebrate each day as a blessing, or I can complain that my back hurts every time I get up.
I choose happiness!
Any excuse for a cupcake!
May 31, 2023
Contributing To Society-Volunteer!
When I was growing up in Lodi, CA, my Mom volunteered by helping the kids of migrant workers during the summer. As I recall, she worked at a day care center for the children, while the parents were working in the fields and she also taught swimming lessons to them at the public swimming pools.
This had a huge impact on me, and I am so fortunate to have grown up with a great example of how you can help others by donating your time and skills and have a positive impact on your community and others by doing so.
I try to find time to volunteer and I recently had an opportunity to work again with Alternative Family Services. AFS provides thoughtful, informed foster care, adoption, and mental health services throughout Northern California.
My task was to help find donations for the silent auction portion of there 45th Gala. It proved to be a little more challenging than I expected, but I was able to gather some nice donations and am grateful to: Micke Grove Park and Zoo of Lodi, CA, WOW Science Museum of Lodi, CA, The Napa General Store in Napa, CA and Inglenook Winery in Rutherford, CA. Thank you all, for your generous donations!
The event also had a live auction, that was quite exciting and the event was a success.
My point to this post is a couple of things.
One is, I often hear people with extra time in their lives and people that are considering retiring say "they don't know what they will do" and I am perplexed by this because their is such a need for volunteers in so many different capacities with so many different organizations.
The other piece, and this ties into what I am all about as a single-woman, with no kids, is it's a great way to add value in your life and contribute to society in a postive way.
Part of the single stigma that exists in our society is people assume that being single and, or not having kids is a selfish act, but in fact, we are able to direct our energy in other ways, that perhaps people with families don't have the time or energy to contribute towards.
And to anyone that has never done volunteer work before, I say give it a try, it may take a while to find an organization or event that is a good fit for you, so don't give up after just one try.
The benefits from it can be enormous. What you put into it, you will get back in so many different ways: feeling good, feeling worthy, building confidence, compassion, being humbled, a sense of pride and being a part of something. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding.
I am sure there are more benefits, then I have listed and I would love to hear from you on what you have gained from it by giving it a try.
May 4, 2023
The Status Of Single VS Singular?
Lately, I have been questioning the status of "single" I think it is too broad of a description.
I understand when filling out paperwork, why it might be important to determine if someone is married or single, but past that I really don't like the description. Especially now that social media is involved and people are scanning and quickly making assumptions about your status.
Here's why. To me, SINGLE sounds like you are not in a relationship, but are open to dating.
And based on the feedback I get on social media, from single men and good intentioned people who learn I am single and try to think of someone they can introduce me to, it is too broad of a description and lends people to think you are "single and ready to mingle."
The thing is, I am happily single and NOT looking.
I intentionally stopped dating a few years ago. And for me, that's when my life really took off in a positive way. Instead of focusing on men, and dating, I decided that I would concentrate on myself and creating the life I wanted for myself.
I started off by really working on my career and over time became a top performing sales executive in my industry.
I thought about what I wanted in life. My dream was always to own my own home and I have always enjoyed travel.
Soon, into putting together my mental and physical vision board, I started traveling on my own. I have taken some wonderful solo trips to Canada, France, Italy, Portugal, and Mexico as well as trips with friends and family, to Spain, Morocco, India , Singapore, Thailand, and numerous places around the United States.
I also was able to buy my first home about 3 years after putting together my vision board.
At this point in my life, I am very happy and I really don't have any intention of dating again.
I feel like as a society we should have another term for someone like me and I don't mean a negative one like spinster, old maid etc. because I feel liberated in my status, not sad and lonely, or looking to date. I don't mean any disrespect to those who do want to date, in fact , I think the clarification might help them out in the long run too. On social media, I have men wanting to "get to know me" and when I tell them I am not dating, they are offended and sometimes even become hostile about it. I am not trying to hurt anyone. I just don't want to mislead anyone and waste both of our time.
Additionally, what about people that are in relationships, but not married? They can still say "I am in a relationship" and people generally understand that without criticism, although I often hear, the next question for them is "so, when are you going to get married?" Maybe that is another topic, but something to think about.
Back to the single status issue. I am proposing a new name/status for a person who is single but not dating.
I am nominating "Singular" It is a synonym of single, so it's not much different, but just enough to allow for another description: a person who is single, but not dating. That way everyone knows upfront what to expect.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I love power tools!
See the link in photo
April 4, 2023
A Bucket List Vacation
One of the great things about being single is that you can do what you want and when you want.
A trip to Thailand has been on my travel destination list for years now and I finally had the time to take a 2 1/2-week vacation and go there a few weeks ago.
I went with my friend Anthony and his friend Daphne joined us.
We spent 4 nights in Singapore, then on to Phuket for a week, and ended with 3 nights in Bangkok.
It was an amazing trip with so much to see and do, sprinkled with days at the beach swimming in the sea and amazing massages for a fraction of the cost of what they would be in the U.S.
The weather was very hot and humid, as expected, but still a lot to deal with and the people of Thailand are some of the kindest people I have ever met.
I love Thai food and I was not dissapointed, I could have stayed longer, just to experience all the great food available there.
The bonus to this fabulous trip is that except for the flights not being cheap and 17.5 hours long, once there things are so much cheaper than in the US! I spent about $4.00-$7.00 per meal and that included a cold beverage. My new favorite drink is a coconut milkshake, which paired well with the spiceyness of the food. I am dreaming of one right now!
I have included some photos in the photos section, but to see the full vlog and all the fun things we saw and did I suggest taking a look at my Instagram Account: @jenniferthehappymaverick
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, Phuket's First & Most Ethical Sanctuary
March 13, 2023
Changing The Single Narrative
The Oscar's were last night, so I tried to make a point to see a few of the nominated films prior to watching the live event.
Over the weekend I started watching one that seemed it might be of interest to me. I won't say names, because that's not the point. What does matter, is that I didn't make it halfway through, because the lead character was a sad and lonely middle-aged woman. It was hard for me to watch, as a just passed, middle-aged, single, woman myself, I found it disturbing to view yet another example of what society thinks an older single woman, like myself, looks like.
Sure there are people like this out there, although there are all types of people that are sad and lonely with many different circumstances, not just single, middle-aged women.
I can say from my own personal experience, that I live a very happy, fulfilled and financially secure life.
When is the media going to start changing the narrative with positive examples of what this life choice, or not by choice, can and does look like?
Personally, I think single people could be much happier with their situation, if society didn't put so much pressure on everyone to be in a relationship. Is media contributing to people's unhappiness by making them feel less then? I think so, and I want to change that by
switching the single narrative.
I hope you follow me on my social media platforms to see what being single and child-free really looks like.
@jenniferthehappymaverick
#breakingthesinglestigma
February 4, 2023
THE LOSS OF A PARENT
The last couple of weeks have been rough ones for me. My 89 year old Dad went to a Drs appointment a couple of weeks ago and they suggested a surgery, that he wanted to have right away, since he hadn’t been feeling well for some time, so they admitted him to the hospital then and there and a couple of days later, he had the procedure. They said it went well. However, he had other issues arise after, that increased his decline. By the end of the week, I got a call from him saying, “all the things they tried to do to help him weren’t working, he was tired and bored and ready to go” The last couple of years have been hard on him and he has given it his all, so I respect and support his decision and he was so relieved to hear that from me. I told him to just hang in there for a few more days, so I could see him and he said he would.
My sister and I flew back to New Hampshire and he was waiting for us in hospice, at the hospital he had been volunteering in for over 10 years.
They had removed his oxygen and feeding tubes and were giving him morphine so he could go peacefully.
While we visited with him, so many people came to see him, wish him a smooth transition and thank him for all he had done for the community of Littleton, NH, the place he and his wife chose to retire in many years ago.
As I talked to him, had some laughs, shed some tears and thought to myself, I realized, he has been, and is my example and inspiration for LIVING LIFE ON MY TERMS, the expression I often use here on my social media. I haven’t always liked or agreed with the decisions he made, but we can honestly, say “he did it his way” up until the very end and had a wonderful life because of it, and I love and respect him for that.
I’m my father’s daughter.
Rest In Peace Dad
January 3, 2023
REFLECTING ON MY YEAR OF TRANSITION
2022 was a remarkable year for me.
I always like to take the time during the last week of the year to reflect and think about the new year to come and what I would like to accomplish.
I am so fortunate to have been able to do so much this last year. I thought it would be a year of relaxation and instead, I was busier than ever! The difference was, I was able to do it all on my time, not on someone else's expected schedule, and that felt amazing.
A couple of things I had hoped to accomplish this last year,that I did, although not as much as I would have liked, was to visit with friends and family and volunteer.
This last month I made time to do a couple of those things that I was so thankful I did.
This first was drive 65 miles to pick up my 88 year old Mom, and then drive another 50 miles to take her to visit her old friends that she hadn't seen in over 3 1/2 years ( and the reverse trip back home). My Mom has had a few tough years, starting about 6 months before covid hit. For her privacy, I will not go into details, but my sister and I did have to put her into assisted living about 18 months ago and that has been an adjustment for her as you can imagine.
For her to see her friends and them her, was priceless. At the end of the day I asked her if she had a good time and she hugged me and said "yes and I feel so loved" It was the best gift I could have given.
I also did a day of volunteering for Alternative Family Services, which provides foster care, adoption, and mental health services throughout Northern California. One of my new local friends is the CEO and I helped at a holiday event for the foster families. It was a wonderful experience and is a great organization that I plan to do more with in 2023.
My big takeaway from 2022 that I want to carry into the new year is KINDNESS.
It's so easy to be kind and doesn't cost a thing, maybe a little of your time, which is vaulale and can be hard to come by, but the rewards are so worth it!
Just think how much better the world would be if we all would practice kindness on a daily basis.
I am looking forward to continuing to share my journey with you and appreciate all your support.
Happy New Year!
Christmas Day at my house.
Clockwise Top: my brother-in-law, me, my Mom, and my sister.
December 6, 2022
Solo Trip to Mexico: San Miguel De Allende and Guanajuato
A few weels ago I took an amazing solo trip to Mexico.
There's something about traveling alone that I find exhilerating. Besides the fact that it allows me to see and do the things I want to and on my time frame, I enjoy the adventure of having to navigate a new place on my own.
I wouldn't go just anywhere by myself, but I did find San Miguel De Allende and the city of Guanajuato to be the perfect places for a solo female traveler to visit.
I have a friend who had been to that region recently and she set me up with a female driver to pick me up at the airport on my arrival in the late afternoon and take me on the 1 1/2 hour drive to San Miguel. All that got messed up when my flights changed and I had to make other connecting flight arragements, that had me arriving at 12:30am and my driver wasn't able to meet me. However, she said she had a male cousin who could. I admit, this was a little scary, but without another option, I put my trust in her and sure enough, her cousin was there with a genuine smile on his face and I knew immdediately, I would be okay.
That was the only mishap that occured the whole trip. Everything else was seamless. I spent a few days enjoying the beauty of San Migiel De Allende. The colors, colonial architecture, murals, weather and people are wonderful. There are so many expats visitng and livng here that it is easy to feel comfortable and fit in. I spent my time wandering the streets, going into shops and enjoying all the food options. I also had taken into account that I would be there for Dia de los Muertes and this was like the icing on the cake! The altars, costumes, face makeup, flowers and general festivities for this special holiday were incredible.
I rented an airbnb for a total of 10 nights, but during that time I had the cousin driver pick me up and take me to Guanajuato, were I spent one night at a hotel. He turned out to be the nicest guy and reassured me I would be very safe on my own in this city and recommended I visit the Mummy Museum, which I had considered, but hadn't had on the top of my list of things to do. I am so glad I took his advice. The Mummy Museum was fascanating, although a bit macabre and sad.
I fell in love with Guanajuato, not only did I feel completely safe here, but it is such a vibrant city, nestled in a canyon, with lots of colforful hillside houses and meandering pathways, it is absoultely charming!
The people are very nice, although many don't speak english and my spanish is minimal, everyone, myself included, did a great job trying to comunicate and it wasn't a problem.
I think one of the reasons I enjoyed this city so much, is because it doesn't have as many expats and it has a unniversity, so it's a little more authentic, youthful, and more hip than San Miguel.
There is some fabulous colonial, barroque and neoclassical architecture which I was mesmorized by. It feels a bit like being in a European city.
I could have stayed longer, but I had to get back to San Miguel De Allende in time for Day of the Dead, which is offically on November 1 and 2nd. I finally met my original, female driver and she drove me back to San Miguel (and to the airport when I traveled home).
Day of the Dead (Dia de los Meurtos) was amazing and was very gratifying to be able to participate in such a special Mexican holiday. It was an experience I will never forget.
I could go into detail about all my expereiences, but it would become more of a book than a blog.
I will say, this was one of the most magical solo trips I have ever taken. I met so many nice people and there was an abudance of beauty all around. If you want to see more than just the photos below, I posted multiple times a day on my instagram account: @jenniferthehappymaverick. I think that will give you a more in depth idea of all the fun things I saw and did.
If you have any specific questions about this trip, feel free to reach out to me.
I love the vibrant colors of Guanajuato!
San Miguel De Allende, Mexico
The colorful streets of San Miguel De Allende
Amazing rooftop views! This one is from The Rosewood Hotel
Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel
I love all the colors! Casa de Sierra Nevada, a Belmond Hotel
I love the tub filled with geraniums and those tiles!
Dia De Los Muertos: the colors!
Such a festive town!
Dia de los Muertos Parade
Dia de los Muertos sugar skulls (calavera)
I even had my face done in La Catrina makeup!
A Day of the Dead Altar
Dia de Los Muertos geraniums to be used for altars and graves
Grave decorations being sold outside of the cemetery for Dia de los Muertos
The Mayan Baths
Guanajuato, Mexico
Colorful Guanajuato!
Basilica Colegiata de Nuestra Senora de Guanajuato
Lots of stairs and pathways in this charming city
I love all the colors in this city!
Teatro Juarez: Performing arts theatre
Traffic coming out of one of the many underground tunnels
Mercado Hildago-fun for food and shopping
Unique Spiral Staircase
Templo de San Francisco
More colorful buildings on the hillside.
This is a great city for a solo traveler.
Hillside homes
Wow!
so many alleyways, it's easy to get lost, and that's okay!
The Mummy Museum
October 5, 2022
BACK HOME AFTER A NEW ENGLAND ROAD TRIP
I just returned from a trip back east to visit my Dad and his wife and take a bit of a road trip through New England while I was at it.
I took a redeye flight from California to Boston, MA and rented a car. The flights went as smoothly as could be expected. I think I got about 3 hours of sleep (ugh). I then rented a car and drove up to Littleton, New Hampshire where my family lives. It's about a 3 1/2hour drive. Getting out of Boston is a bit of a challange, but once on the road, it's smooth sailing, except that sleep deprivation caught up with me and I had to pull over at a rest stop for a quick power nap!
Once in the white mountains of NH, I had a nice visit with family. I have been their many times and always enjoy the beauty of this region. It's so clean here, the air is fresh and there are many lakes, ponds and mountains. If you are into outdoor activities this is the place to be!
I spent 3 days at their place and then continued on with my road trip to Maine. Since my family hadn't been anywhere in awhile, they decided to join me in Maine. I had rented a cabin for the 3 of us at Point Lookout in Northeport, ME. We took seperate cars because they would be coming back to NH and I would head back down to Boston from there.
I love the adventure of a road trip and it was especially fun having never been to Maine. I made a point of making my first stop at a covered bridge in Maine, since it was on my bucket list. The Sunday River Bridge, built in 1872 is one of the most photographed covered bridges in Maine. It was beautiful and did not dissapoint!
From there, I just followed Google Maps and boy was I in for a pleasant surprise. I unexpectedly came upon a town called Rumford, Maine and had to pull over to check it out. It was gorgeous, with multiple waterfalls, a bridge over the waterways and through town and green mountains in the background.
This is what a good road trip is all about, finding a place you have never heard of and taking the time to check it out!
After lots of photo and video taking for my Instagram account, I continued on. Along the way I stopped at a cute little organic produce stand on the side of the road and picked up a few different types of apples and a slice of blueberry pie. When in Rome!
About 5 hours after leaving my familys home I arrived at our cabin at The Point Lookout in Northport, Maine. It was perfect for us. I walked into an open floorplan kitchen/living room with a cozy fire in the fireplace. It had everything we needed for our 4 nights stay and the overall facilities included: a laundry facility, a huge exercise gym, a rec room with a pool table and amazing hiking trails on site. It was perfect having access to trails and I enjoyed walking them a few times.
Over the next few days we took drives to Camden, Belfast, Rockport, Rockland and I made it out to Owls Head to see the Lighthouse. My Dad is now 89 and his wife a bit younger, so we are all at different fitness levels and have various interests, so depending on the activity, we did some things together and some things I ventured out on my own, but we always ended each day back at our cozy cabin to discuss our daily activities.
Next up, it was time to say "good-bye" and go our seperate ways. For me, it was the next phase of my road trip adventure. Again, using Google Maps, I headed down to Boston. It was a defferent route then I had ever been so I found it interesting, but at this point I was on a mission to drop off my car, so I didn't stop anywhere except to get gas, but I did enjoy the scenary.
Once I dropped off my car by the airport, instead of getting a flight, I had decided to stay in Boston for a night and do a little exploring there.
I had lived just outside of Boston a few years ago for about 15 months for a job, so I had already scene most of the tourist sites and I really just wanted to walk around and enjoy this historical city. Lucky for me, I couldn't have asked for better weather, about 70 degrees.
I had booked a room at The College Club of Boston. A lovely victorian style brownstone, located on Commomwealth and in the beautiful and centrally located Back Bay. It was founded in 1890 as the first women's college club in the United States. My room was decorated with antiques and in light greens, pinks and frilly white linens. This B&B was the perfect place for a solo girls trip!
I spent my short stay in Boston wondering the historical neighborhoods, enjoying the different flower box displays and brick architecture, strolling through Boston Common and window shopping.
And then, it was time for me to catch a late afternoon flight home...
I had a few take aways from this trip that I will share with you:
*It is is always nice to see and spend time with family
*Road trips are a fun adventure and a great way to see the country
*Although it is good to have plans when traveling, it is also fun to not "overbooK" and allow
time to just get out and explore and see what unfolds
*I am used to California weather! It's cold here in New England in September.
*You never know what surprise "gem" you may find!
I am posting pictures and reels of this trip on my instagram account at:
instagram.com/jenniferthehappymaverick
Me, my Stepmother, and my Dad on our Airbnb cabin steps in Northport, ME
September 4, 2022
THE SINGLEHOOD STIGMA-I've been thinking...
I launched The Happy Maverick a little over a year ago with the idea that I could be an example of an older person who made the decision not to marry and show that I was living a full and joyous life.
Basically, I have been chronicling my life via social media: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and this website for the last few months. However, through the process of showing what I have been doing this last year , as an empowered woman (retiring, moving to a new town, selling my home etc.) I feel I may have gotten away from my main message.
I read an article recently stating that "Singles face discrimination, prejudice, and financial challenges as they often earn less and pay more for social benefits, health care, and income taxes, according to research." I have to admit, I was taken aback reading this for a few different reasons. Although, I admit from personal experience it is all true. Maybe because I live with it every day, I have just become accustomaed to it all.
For example, for me personally, when I tell people I am single and I have never been married, I always have to include that I am happy and it has been by choice. Why should I have to explain myself and my status? Well if I don't, peoplet look at me with sad eyes and or try to figure out what is wrong with me. Nothing is wrong with me! I couldn't be happier and honestly, I am probably living a more blissful life than the many people who feel pressured to be in a relationship or marry because that's what society or their culture expects them to do.
The other common thing that happens when people learn I am single is they try to fix me up with someone. I just said I was "happy with my status" I'm not looking for a partner. I lead a very full life with many different friends, I have a lot of different interests and although I enjoy meeting new people and making new friends, seeking a companion is not a priority for me right now. Maybe that will change as I get older (haha, I'm 61 now)!
At any rate, this post is not meant to be a rant.
What I have decided, is to really put myself out there and be the poster child for singlehood. I'm a little nervous about how people will react, because of the discrimination factor, but I need to be true to myself because I feel very strongly about this. It hits to the core of my being.
As I move forward with my social media posts, I plan to start being more vocal about the singlehood stigma. This blog is really just the tip of the iceberg.
I also want to point out that there are many different types of singlehood: not by choice, dating, but don't want to get married, folks that have been married, but don't want to go through it again, people putting their career before a relationshp. It's different for everyone.
My story is just that, my personal journey to a fulfilling life that works for me.
You can probably tell by reading this post and some of my others, I am not a writer, but I do want to get my message out, so if you have any connections or ideas on how I can do this I would love to hear from you. A guest on a podcast or mention in a periodical, perhaps?
I appreciate all your support along the way!
Have a wonderful day, Jennifer The Happy Maverick
Single and Happy!