What were your parents doing at your age?

DAD

When my dad was my age, he celebrated 25 years with his company. In addition, he along with my uncle , put together a celebration for my mom and aunt’s 50th birthdays ( they were twins).

Four of his 6 children were married and he had 5 grandchildren; 4 granddaughters, 1 grandson.

With just a handful more years before the youngest child was to graduate from high school, he and mom would begin planning their golden years; traveling upstate or out east looking at possible retirement homes. Dad liked peace and quiet and possibly a boat.

It didn’t happen.

MOM

At my age, mom shut herself in the house and was mad at the world. Dad passed away four years earlier. We all tried to help, but she refused.

My dad was her life.

LESSONS

Like my parents, my husband is a few years older. He’s looking to retire in a handful of years. Unlike my homemaker mom, I work and will most likely work a few more years after he retires.

My job and hobbies keep me going. I made some good friends, and I keep myself busy. My husband taught me that. He saw for himself how my mother was and agreed with me that it should not have to be that way.