I live on a hectare of land—my little slice of paradise and a warm escape from Canada’s icy, slippery winter wonderland.
As a senior, I’ve learned that snow and ice don’t mix well with me (or my hips). So, here I am, turning this plot of land into a lush garden that’s slowly becoming the envy of, well, mostly just me, but it’s quite the masterpiece in progress.
Flowering Jazmine Tree. Copyright:aesta1
My hectare is a delightful patchwork of flowers, fruit trees, and vegetable beds. One part blooms with vibrant colours, while the other grows the vegetables that keep me fed and feeling virtuous about my food choices. Freshness is the name of the game here. There’s nothing like biting into a sun-warmed tomato or crunching on a cucumber straight off the vine. It’s like nature whispers, “See? This is how veggies are supposed to taste!”
Beans Growing in My Garden. Copyright: aesta1
We also keep a few chickens—not just for their eggs but because they’re fantastic little composters who love munching on leftovers. They strut around like they own the place, occasionally “borrowing” a bit of fruit or a veggie. I think they’re plotting to overthrow me, but I let it slide.
Of course, this garden doesn’t run itself. Enter my dream team: Romeo and Sam, the hardworking gardeners who keep everything thriving, and Jazmin, our innovation guru. She’s like the garden’s mad scientist, whipping up organic sprays and fertilizers that keep pests away without making the plants feel too “chemically.”
The Priceless Joy of Gardening
Let me be clear: this garden is not a money-making venture. It’s the opposite. I pour in more money than I get back. But can you put a price on the joy of plucking fresh vegetables for breakfast or wandering among fruit trees with a steaming cup of coffee in hand? For me, this is living.
Every morning, I gear up like I’m heading into battle: gloves on, basket in hand, cutter ready, and coffee firmly in my grasp. I stroll through my garden, saying hello to the plants, inspecting the squash flowers (are you male or female today?), and ensuring everything grows as it should. I’ve even started building more raised beds for better yields and experimenting with planting in pots. Why? Because I can and love seeing my neighbours scratch their heads and ask, “What’s she up to now?”
Video of Cucumbers Growing in My Garden
A Garden That Connects
Last year, I started this journey but had to leave halfway when I returned to Canada. It’s hard to garden long-distance, even with modern technology. You can get photos and videos, but nothing beats being here. There’s magic in touching the soil, smelling the herbs, and hearing the chickens cluck disapprovingly at your every move.
My hectare is more than just a garden. It’s my playground, sanctuary, and reminder that life can still be full of new beginnings, even as I grow older. The joy it brings me—watching tiny seeds grow into plants, feeding both body and soul—is priceless.
So here I am, cultivating not just fruits and vegetables but also happiness and a sense of purpose. Every day is a new adventure, whether figuring out how to outsmart a mischievous chicken or discovering a hidden zucchini the size of a baseball bat. Life on my hectare? It’s more rewarding (and hilarious) than I ever imagined.
In the quaint town of Cabatuan, nestled in the heart of the Philippines, a remarkable woman named Petronila, affectionately known as Petro, defied the passage of time and the limitations that often accompany age. At 96, she was a living testament to vitality, her spirit as fierce and lively as that of a 60-year-old.
Despite her years, Petro thrived in her semi-remote barrio, a short 15-minute journey from the town’s bustling center.Retired from a lifetime of teaching, Petro remained deeply connected to her community.
The joy of education was not the only thing she brought to her life; it was the social interactions she cherished. Every week, she joined local seniors for gatherings, enthusiastically participating in energetic dances like the cha-cha, twist, and even the lively limbo rock. Her laughter mingled with the music, creating a harmony that resonated through the small gathering spaces.
A few times, I happened upon her at wakes, especially those honoring fellow teachers. While many of her contemporaries arrived accompanied by caregivers or family, Petro walked in alone, exuding an independence that was as admirable as it was intriguing. Her presence illuminated the somber atmosphere, a spark of life in a world clouded by loss.
But one fateful day, whispers floated through the town like the wind. Petro had fallen while navigating the uneven footpaths leading to her home, a precarious balance that had become more challenging with age. Rumors of her declining health traveled fast, and a wave of concern swept through the community.
The Visit
On a bright Monday morning, my sister turned to me with an idea sprouted from her caring heart. “Let’s go visit Petro,” she announced with determination. I felt a mixture of curiosity and concern swell within me; the lady whose resilience captivated me now needed support, and I couldn’t resist the pull of her story.
“Let’s call Bro Caloy,” my sister suggested, referencing our tricycle-driving neighbor who was frequently enlisted for such errands. He was a devoted member of her church — a good man not without his flaws.
Caloy bore an air of arrogance that often distracted from his kindhearted nature, a mask for the inferiority complex that lingered just beneath the surface. His strong personality sometimes bordered on rudeness, a reflection of battles he fought internally.
Growing up, my father often extended his help to young men in the community, offering them jobs in his business to steer them toward a better path. In this spirit, we had taken Caloy under our wings as well.
He owned a dilapidated tricycle, characteristically unlicensed — a burden of registration fees he couldn’t quite manage. But his efforts, however flawed, were commendable, and I respected his resilience.As we hopped into his tricycle, the air filled with anticipation and a hint of trepidation. I was eager to learn about Petro’s world, the labyrinth of experiences woven into her 96 years, and uncover the secrets of her unwavering spirit.
Under the Mango Tree
Arriving at Petro’s home felt like stepping into a different era. Her little house, adorned with vibrant flowers and a few scattered mango trees, stood as a sentinel of her dedicated life.
The damp earth emitted a fresh scent, mingling with the soft rustling of leaves above us — a tranquil realm away from the weighty concerns of the outside world.Petro greeted us at the door, her smile bright against the wrinkles of her wise, sun-kissed face. Though she leaned slightly on a cane, her posture remained poised, radiating warmth and hospitality.
“Welcome, my dear!” she said, her voice rich with affection. “I have missed the laughter of dear friends.”Once inside, we settled ourselves among the treasured memorabilia scattered throughout her small living room — old photographs of students, faded diplomas, and frames holding memories of dances that once captured her vibrant spirit.
As flows of conversation started, I felt a bond forming not just between us but with the stories etched in her walls.
The Power of Connection
Petro began to share tales of her life — her recollections of teaching in Cabatuan, the joy of inspiring young minds, and the friendships she forged along the way. She spoke about the fervor of youth, the vibrancy in her community, and how her passion for education had intertwined with her identity.
“Life is a dance,” she asserted with a smile. “And I love to cha-cha my way through it!” Her laughter resonated, infectious and inviting. It twisted through the air like music, a reminder that age did not diminish one’s vitality; instead, it could amplify it if one allowed joy to lead.
As I listened, I realized that Petro’s strength lay in something deeper than just her sprightly nature. It was her ability to adapt, to embrace change, whether through loss or joy, and still reach out to others. In a world fragmented by age and decline, Petro was a living testament to the unseen threads that connect our lives.
A Community’s Heartbeat
Our visit became a ritual of sorts after that day. Each week, my sister and I would return to Petro’s home, bringing conversations, laughter, and stories of our own lives. Bro Caloy, despite his bristly exterior, found warmth in Petro’s company too. Together, we formed an unusual trio, united by the joy of shared moments.
Through our visits, we learned about the challenges Petro faced; the footpath that wound to her home seemed more daunting with each passing day. But she never complained, and every time we saw her dance, it was as if the worries of the world faded away.
The town of Cabatuan, once limited by its size, grew larger in our hearts as we connected with its history through Petro. We learned about her struggles, her joys, and the love she bore for her students, many of whom still sought her guidance on occasion, respecting the lessons learned long ago.
The Legacy of Joy
Months passed, and the seasons turned. Petro’s legs became weary, but her vibrant spirit never dimmed. The rhythm of her life continued, perhaps a little slower but no less lived. She taught us lessons not inscribed in textbooks but written in the way one embraces life, regardless of age.
One afternoon, as the sun dipped low, casting golden hues across Cabatuan, Petro looked at us and said, “Never forget, my dears, that life is a celebration. Dance with joy, and you will find the strength to face any challenge.”
As we laughed and danced beneath the mango trees, I understood that Petro would remain a beacon not just for the elderly but for anyone seeking inspiration. The tiny town of Cabatuan was rich with stories, but none so enlightening and powerful as that of Petronila, a woman who danced through life, undeterred by time.
Ah, New Year’s—the season of resolutions, gratitude lists, and the slow, creeping realization that you’re annoyed by absolutely everything. This year, I took the well-meaning advice of all those inspirational quotes on Instagram: “Be grateful. Focus on the positive.” And so, I did.
Ah, New Year’s—the season of resolutions, gratitude lists, and the slow, creeping realization that you’re annoyed by absolutely everything. This year, I took the well-meaning advice of all those inspirational quotes on Instagram: “Be grateful. Focus on the positive.” And so, I did.
I made my gratitude list. It started simple enough: health, family, friends. But then, as I sat there basking in my supposed positivity, an unwelcome guest barged into the room—my inner annoyance.
Why do my friends always copy what I order at restaurants? Is it some culinary stalking? Why can’t they appreciate fine dining or, heaven forbid, try something new? And let’s not even get started on my classmates from high school—people who once aced math tests alongside me but now seem blissfully ignorant of basic facts. As for my sister, who can’t figure out how to use her phone. Honestly, how is this even my problem?
Suddenly, my gratitude list had turned into a laundry list of grievances. I wasn’t focusing on the good; I was fixated on the frustrating. Gratitude was supposed to bring me peace, but all it did was shine a spotlight on the small, ridiculous things that were driving me up the wall.
So, I had no choice but to confront myself. “Where is this coming from?” I asked as if I were the protagonist of some introspective indie film. The answer? Crickets. My brain was as helpful as a GPS with no signal.
Frustrated, I thought, “Maybe if I stop thinking, I’ll feel better.” Spoiler: I didn’t. The thoughts just kept coming, like uninvited guests at a party.
Finally, I gave up. I stopped trying to “fix” my mood, forcing gratitude or hunting for solutions. I just sat there, doing nothing. And you know what? That helped.
Because sometimes, the answer isn’t another list, another self-help mantra, or another round of overthinking. Sometimes, the answer is to just be—to let the thoughts come and go without trying to wrestle them into submission.
So, here’s my New Year’s wisdom: Annoyance’s okay. It’s okay to feel stuck. And it’s okay to do absolutely nothing about it for a while. Life will keep moving, and eventually, so will you.
And who knows? Maybe the next time your friend orders the same dish as you, you’ll just shrug and laugh. Or maybe you’ll roll your eyes. Either way, it’s fine. Happy New Year.
Christmas is a magical time of year—a season bursting with joy, connection, and traditions. It’s a time for family celebrations, reunions with friends, and enough food to make Santa reconsider his diet. This year, I’m in the Philippines for Christmas, and let me tell you: nobody does Christmas like the Filipinos. Between the glittering lights, endless parties, and town-wide competitions for the most extravagant decorations, it’s a holiday on steroids.
Iloilo Provincial Capitol Lights
The Seniors Take Center Stage
When I say everyone celebrates here, I mean everyone. The seniors are no exception; let me tell you, they’re not about to let a little thing like age slow them down. I recently attended a Christmas party with my high school classmates—now a lively bunch of senior citizens. Despite the occasional cane and creaky joints, they danced the limbo rock as though auditioning for a music video. Somewhere between cheering them on and stifling my laughter, I realized these seniors were out-partying me.
The retired teachers’ party was just as spirited. Some of these folks are well into their 90s, but there they were, swaying on the dance floor with the kind of enthusiasm that puts younger generations to shame. They participated in games with gusto and piled their plates high with festive food. It’s as if Christmas grants them an extra dose of vitality—and maybe a little extra appetite.
Cabatuan Retired Elementary Teachers Christmas Party
Lighting Up the Town (and the Spirits)
One of the highlights of a Filipino Christmas is the fully decked-out town plaza. Towns compete for the best lighting displays, and let me tell you, it’s no joke. These plazas don’t just twinkle—they blaze like someone handed the town electrician an unlimited budget and a sugar rush. The lighting ceremonies are a spectacle of fireworks, music, and communal cheer, drawing people from far and wide to reconnect with old friends, distant relatives, and maybe even that one ex they’d rather avoid.
Simbang Gabi: Faith and Food
No Filipino Christmas is complete without the tradition of Simbang Gabi, a nine-day series of early morning novena masses leading up to Christmas Day. For some, it’s a spiritual journey. For others, it’s a chance to indulge in post-mass snacks like bibingka and puto bumbong. Let’s be honest—some people are there for the food as much as the faith, and who can blame them? Nothing warms the soul like a steaming plate of sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves in the early hours of the day.
Party Marathon: A Grandson’s Concern
The sheer number of parties here is astounding. When I told my grandson in Canada how many Christmas events I’d attended—and how many more were still to come—he quipped, “By the time Christmas is over, you’ll be a walking “lechon!” (I’m still trying to decide if that was a compliment or a warning.)
The expenses for these celebrations could make anyone’s wallet cry, but Filipinos approach it with remarkable generosity. They chip in for gifts, food, and other party essentials without hesitation. At one party, the mayor and several councillors showed up. And they even had a guest speaker. They had garlands for these guests and prizes for the games. The only thing they forgot? The rice! Thankfully, the staff at the convention center saved the day, cooking up a batch in record time. The seniors laughed it off, saying, “That’s just part of the fun!”
A Christmas to Remember
What struck me most about these celebrations wasn’t just the lights or the laughter—it was the effort to include everyone. Organizers go out of their way to ensure seniors can attend, providing transport and other assistance. These parties aren’t just about fun; they’re about connection.
So, while my grandson jokes about me turning into a lechon, I’ll take it as a compliment—after all, lechons crown every gathering – delicious and absolutely unforgettable.
Christmas is a magical time of year, a season bursting with joy, connection, and traditions. It is time for family celebrations and get-togethers with friends. It is a golden opportunity for Seniors to introduce younger members of the family to cherished traditions. One year, my sister and I, both in our 70s, invited the grandkids to sing classical carols we used to sing when we were children. With the Internet, children now sing the popular hits.
Christmas Season
Rekindling Christmas Traditions
Traditions are the heart of Christmas, and for seniors, they often carry a lifetime of stories. Whether trimming the tree, baking family-recipe cookies, or singing carols, these rituals provide a sense of nostalgia and belonging. Gathering grandchildren to bake gingerbread cookies or hanging ornaments that span decades can spark joy and remind everyone of the family’s rich history.
For seniors who may live far from family, participating in community activities like tree lighting ceremonies or local holiday fairs can provide that same spirit.
Spreading Holiday Cheer
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Christmas is the opportunity to give back. Seniors can embrace the spirit of giving by sharing their time, skills, or even simple acts of kindness. Crafting handmade holiday cards for neighbours, knitting scarves for those in need, or volunteering at a local food bank are wonderful ways to spread cheer.
For those less mobile, hosting a cozy gathering or phone call with friends and family can brighten someone else’s day. Sometimes, a heartfelt conversation or a warm smile is the greatest gift.
Staying Connected
Christmas can also be challenging for seniors, especially those living alone or far from loved ones. Modern technology offers creative solutions to bridge the gap—video calls to share Christmas morning, digital cards, or even online games that allow families to celebrate together virtually.
Family members can ensure seniors feel included by planning simple but meaningful activities. A holiday movie night, crafting ornaments, or even just sharing a cup of cocoa and conversation can make all the difference.
Many Seniors live alone and are not connected to families. We must think of them. Invite them to your celebration so they feel the joy that most of us experience at Christmas.
I’m spending holidays here in the Philippines and Christmas is a time of celebration. There are celebrations within the family, among classmates, groups and among friends. The challenge here for Seniors is to ensure balance so they don’t over-extend themselves which can easily happen even way before Christmas. Not only is this important for their mental health but for their physical health as well. The food in these celebrations often consists of pork and sweets. Cakes, soft drinks, ice cream, chocolates and other sweets are in abundance making the sugar levels of many Seniors rise. Nobody goes for lab tests these days as they all know they’ll have problems.
The Gift of Time
Above all, the greatest gift anyone can give seniors during Christmas is time. Whether it’s an afternoon visit, a shared meal, or a nostalgic chat about holidays past, time spent together creates memories that last far beyond the season.
A friend told me the other day that she finally found the time to host an 80-year-old neighbour for dinner. She fetched her knowing she had a hard time walking in the dark and prepared a delicious dinner for her. She enjoyed it so much that she invited her another time and prepared coq a vin for my friend. They enjoyed this so much that they promised to cook dinner for each other at least once a month. What a wonderful Christmas gift this would be for a Senior living alone.
Celebrating with Comfort and Care
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can sometimes feel overwhelming, so it’s important for seniors to prioritize self-care. Resting when needed, maintaining healthy habits, and managing stress are crucial for fully enjoying the season. Gentle exercises like a winter walk to admire holiday lights or participating in chair yoga can keep spirits bright and bodies active. Early morning or evening walks in tropical regions will surely help.
Creating a festive but calming environment—soft lights, warm blankets, and a playlist of beloved carols—can help seniors soak in the magic of Christmas without feeling rushed or pressured.
We have an 80-year-old neighbour, Dave. Dave is gifted with a sense of humour and makes the most hilarious comments. These gems are precious. Each time they come out of his mouth, I feel jealous. How I wish I had the same gift, even just a bit of it.
My husband used to say that when God sprinkled the gift of humour, He bypassed me. I accept that I have no sense of humour. I dreamt of making the most witty observations that made people laugh, but somehow, this dream remained only a dream.
I knew I had to feed this desire to dabble a bit. So, I embarked on a journey:
Me on My Journey.
I sought out humour in various forms. I watched comedy shows, read funny books and articles, and followed comedians and humorous content creators. I exposed myself to different forms of humour until I started to find what was funny. I no longer wondered what was funny while all the rest were dying of laughter.
I trained myself to look for the humorous aspects in everyday situations. I tried to change my severe outlook on life to a more playful one, such as finding the absurd and the unexpectedly funny.
I started laughing at my mistakes and quirks. My imperfections became a source of amusement, not embarrassment.
During summers in Canada, the cottage docks became a rich environment for sharing wit and humour. Docks are always full of playful banter, telling and solving riddles, finding clever and humorous conversation connections, and sharing laughter. These activities all helped sharpen my blunt sense of humour.
But most importantly, I became very observant. Being observant helped me spot the comedic in everyday life, people, situations, and even mundane objects.
There is such a thing as a gift of a sense of humour. I have no such gift, so I could never be like our neighbour, Dave. But I have moved an inch from being severe to becoming relaxed and fun. I keep laughing at myself. If you can’t find fun in yourself, you can never entertain others.
Seniors, there’s so much to celebrate at our age. Many of you have wonderful children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It’s a joy. as we watch them grow and build their own lives. At this point in our lives, this is our focus.
Field of blooms. Source: aesta1
Many of us look back, and instead of celebrating what we have become and have given life, we keep regrets in our hearts. Regret is a life-killer. Regret is a feeling of sadness or disappointment about something that has happened or that we have done in the past. The more humiliating it is, the more we keep it, hoping that no one among our friends and acquaintances knows about it. Because we keep it, even when we don’t think about it, it is a burden to us whether we are aware of it. Sometimes, we bury it deep down and lose awareness of it.
Then, at one point, a trigger comes, and whoa, we react strongly. We even surprise ourselves at the forceful reaction we have. The trigger can be something someone said, an ordinary comment that everyone else did not notice, but we reacted. Why? Because deep down, we still keep our regrets alive. So, what do we do to let go of this burden?
To overcome regret, it’s important to acknowledge it and learn from it. Here are some things we can do. I’m sure you have your answers to this, having lived so many years. Feel free to add it in the Comment Section. We can all profit from your own experience.
By practicing these strategies, you can gradually overcome regret and move forward with a positive mindset. Remember that it’s okay to seek support from friends, family, or a professional if you’re struggling with feelings of regret. Your Senior years are for you to enjoy.
Acceptance: Accept that you cannot change the past and that feeling regretful will not alter what has already happened. I see it as part of my growth, which has helped me grow, so I am thankful for the experience and let it go. Even if I can’t let it go, it is no longer a burden as I look at it differently.
Learn from mistakes: Use regret as a learning opportunity. Reflect on what happened, identify what you could have done differently, and use that knowledge to make better decisions in the future. We all make mistakes.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognize that everyone makes mistakes. Treat yourself with the same empathy and understanding you would offer a friend.
Focus on the present, on the NOW. Shift your attention to the present moment and the positive aspects of your life. Mindfulness and gratitude can help you appreciate what you have now. When you wake up in the morning and before you go to sleep, thank the Source for everything that will come to you on that day and for everything sent your way by the end of the day.
Set new goals: Channel your energy into setting new goals and working towards them. This can help you create a sense of purpose and direction. It enables you to look forward.
As the new year, 2024, starts, the challenge for us as a community is how to become a more supportive environment for older people. Why is this important?
Seniors Enjoying Company. Source: aesta1
According to the United Nations, the number of people aged 65 years or older will rise to more than double from 761 million in 2021 to 1.6 billion in 2050. Moreover, babies born in 2022 will live 71.7 years on average, 25 years longer than those born in 1950 (those in their early 70s today).
This aging population brings with it opportunities and challenges. Families and communities, not just the individuals concerned, must understand what we will face so it will not catch us unprepared.
Recently, a group of us aged 70 to 80 shared our concerns, and I posed questions to each of us. Who in their family do they see will take care of them once they can no longer take care of themselves? The answers ranged from a niece, a sister-in-law, and a grandniece. Still, I could sense a chink in each of their responses. No one is ever sure, especially when the care demands not only effort but money as well. It depends on the health of the Senior and the caregiver. Also, the Senior’s and caregiver’s wealth will affect the care available. While first-world economies are experiencing the challenge now, in 2050, U.N. data says that 80% of older people will live in low- and middle-income countries. This reality will compound the problem.
If older people are in good health, they have a better chance of living a good life and not being a drain on society. However, data shows that most older adults experience declining health and wealth. Some older people try to work longer or find other work to supplement their income. Those with better financial means often support their children or grandchildren.
This highlights the need for society to ensure that older people live in a supportive environment for their well-being.
What’s being done now? The U.N. has declared 2021-2030 as the Decade of Healthy Ageing. This program “seeks to reduce health inequities and improve the lives of older people, their families, and communities through collective action in four areas: changing how we think, feel and act towards age and ageism; developing communities in ways that foster the abilities of older people; delivering person-centred integrated care and primary health services responsive to older people; and providing older people who need it with access to quality long-term care.”
Norway tops the best care for Seniors, which includes 100% pension coverage and financial security for older adults. It also has the best income and employment rates for older adults. Sweden subsidizes costs for older adults, making them the happiest and most comfortable in their care homes. Switzerland has excellent support for older adults living in their own homes. Switzerland, like Germany, ranks above average in older people’s feeling of connectedness.
Canada has the longest life expectancy of these economies and is trying its best to care for its older population, giving support so they can stay longer in their homes.
Most Seniors want to leave Senior residences. In family-centred countries, older adults stay with their families, giving them a more physically and socially supportive environment. More and more, many families are no longer able to do this. In Finland, foster care homes for Seniors are now municipally licensed and offer an alternative for older people. In Singapore, the government incentivizes families to live close to their aging parents. More models are coming up, and research into how care homes can be improved, as well as technologies to help older people stay in their homes, is taking place in several countries.
We look forward to more improvements in elderly care and well-being in 2024. We hope that Seniors will have the support they need for their well-being. Happy New Year.
