I asked myself, “What do I enjoy? What is fun for me?” It is not just leisure activities, and most are not paid work. I was lucky to be paid for some very fun jobs, although there are always challenges.

I began making a list of things I enjoy, and it’s amazing. I could not believe how many things bring me joy, or that I “enjoy” or have fun with on an almost daily basis. It’s no wonder I am never bored. While many involve basic knowledge or techniques, most of them are not based on the latest technology. Many involve being with others, like being in a chorus or orchestra. Some of these are solitary activities, and they are not in order of importance. Activities I enjoy include:

Music: singing, playing violin, listening to music on the radio, going to concerts of all types of music.

Art: viewing, discussing, learning about artists, history of styles, and creating art myself using all kinds of materials.

Community/Neighbours: being part of something bigger than myself, making our neighbourhood better, passing on wisdom (when asked).

Dining out: trying foods from other countries, with new friends, so I understand the context of the food, how it is grown, cooked, and served.

Family: cheering on my daughters and grandchildren. I am so proud of them. Listening, visiting, going for dinners or breakfasts, watching the kids’ games, sharing my experiences like concerts with them.

Friends: sharing dinners, lunch, laughter, discussions, joys and challenges, assisting with joint projects like garage or yard sales, recording other life stories.

Gardening/Home improvement: making my house and yard a better place to live makes me feel like a part of something good and making the world a better place. I like old houses and antiques.

Meeting new people: getting to know people from other countries makes life interesting. Learning about customs and traditions, seeing their clothing, tools, and artistic creations.

Sewing: making things new, like aprons out of new or reused fabric. I do embroidery or hand-sewing, and I get joy out of renewing cute dresses for my grand niece.
Learning and paying it forward: many people have given me something I treasure, so I pass it on to others. That’s why I keep sharing plants in the Plant Exchange.

Travel: I love going to new places, understanding different values, seeing different architectures, and what is created out of local plants and materials.

Watching TV or films: learning about the world, news, ideas, discussion, CTV, CBC, HGTV, PBS, so much to learn. I don’t understand why we create wars – why can’t we just be respectful of each other?

Writing: makes me think about what is important in life, and what I should do differently. I enjoy challenges – what can I create? What can I learn?

My Pets: they bring great joy. I walk them twice daily, watch them play, and each one has their own personality – so loving and interesting.

Wow – so much in life to enjoy and learn from. No wonder I don’t get much housework done – I don’t enjoy that. It’s much more fun to do all the other things. I have had my share of troubles, and I have learned from them. A lot of life is fun if we view it with curiosity and respect.