Mission working!

Well, I am really pleased at my project to avoid stagnation in retirement that I started recently. Even though retirement is a year and a few months away, it was good to start it early so that we know what is out there and to get into the groove of things. We have joined 2 book clubs and that has forced us to step out of the usual material that we read. Brian has gone beyond reading just history and economics/finance and has actually read TWO novels and is reading Water for Elephants right now. I have stepped out of my mystery comfort zone as well, although my reading habits were always more eclectic than his and included non-fiction. Goodreads has been a great way to track readings and check on people's reactions to books. One of the most amazing two I read were The Soloist and The Girl with the Dragon Tatoo, among others.
The dining and wine and empty nesters groups have proved a new way of meeting like minded people. And I am really looking forward to the group run by Chef Drummond of the Continental and the culture groups.
The family membership at the museum is a fabulous source of new and exciting knowledge. We went to a tour of Japanese decorative arts and learned a great deal from the wonderderful docent who spoke and we came away with a whole new appreciation of Japanese art. Before, we would have looked at it and simply said it was pretty or interesting. We're doing the Raja exhibit this week followed by the orchestra which is always a joy.
The Polish lessons are paying off, although those are coming to an end soon. They have proved super in terms of corresponding coherently with my family in Poland.
We've been seeing a lot of performances that we wouldn't have seen without the push of the "project in progress". Walnut St. Theater's The Prince got terrible reviews, but it was actually a great little 2 man play about a Vince Fumo type of politician. Very entertaining and enlightening. We look forward to Travel's with my Aunt.
There's also a fine LGBTF place here called the Nevermore and the people are very inclusive and fun. The guy who owns my beauty parlor urged me to come to events there and we have been delighted with the reception. We've been to some super wine tasting meals and shows there. All in all, we just have to keep up the momentum. This is life beyond your job, kids and grandkids -- although I would never give up the latter two! Just got back from N.C. and will be watching Alina next weekend. Look forward to Shannon and Jon's visit in March when we plan to go to trivia night at Via Ponte among other fun events. Life is awfully good when you stretch.