Page 10 - 2021aprilmay

CALLED TO PLAY by Diane Walters

arrived at work wearing a crown of shamrocks and a glittery assisted living and had loved putting smiles on people’s faces. I
green shirt. I waved to the folks gathered at the fireplace. wanted to feel that sense of satisfaction again.
I “Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Don’t forget the party.” Much to the surprise of friends and family, I got the job at a
Later, the 80, 90, and 100-year-olds senior community. It’s really more
followed me to the community room where a calling than a job, and I can’t call it
we clapped to the rhythm of Irish music. work because I’m having so much fun.
Eventually, someone asked, “Aren’t you After a lifetime of taking myself too
going to do the Chicken Dance?” seriously, I am old enough to let loose,
“Yes, it’s time! Come on; everyone lets be myself, and play. I don’t act my age, I
Chicken Dance.” The familiar music guess, but how’s a 73-year-old supposed
began slowly, then picked up speed. I to act?
looked around the room, calling out names My best friend is retired and spends all
to encourage participation. Most joined her time on the golf course. She thinks
in, watching for cues to the hand and arm I should stop working and take up a
motions and hip wiggles. I was breathless new hobby, “You need to try golf,” she
when I finished, but giggling. insists.
Ten years earlier, friends had laughed at me But that’s the beauty of getting older—
for wanting to pursue a new career at my we can decide for ourselves how to
age. But I was tired of spending my days filling out paperwork enjoy the years we’ve been given. We have choices. We can play
and longed to do something more fulfilling. golf, travel, volunteer, visit grandchildren, or do nothing.
Maybe no one would hire a plump, 60-ish woman, but why As for me, I continue to find joy in working—and in leading the
not try? I’d regret not trying more than I’d regret being turned chicken dance. •
down for a job. And I knew just what I wanted to do; work with
older adults. In my youth, I’d volunteered at my grandmother’s

HOW I SPEND MY DAYS by Helen Davids

Over the past year, I have spent some of my time on Zoom
events with Celebration Magazine LIVE. I have shared with the
group my love for walking and event shared my sunrise pictures
on our Happy Hour and Show&Tell events.
What I also want to share is about my years as a runner!
From 2009-2012 I was an active runner, competing in 5 and 10k
races. I raced at least once a month in events held at Fort Hood
and in the towns of Copperas Cove, Killeen, Harker Heights,
and Temple, TX. I endured the Texas heat and also some cold
snaps. Still, I enjoyed getting out there for the exercise, fresh air,
and the camaraderie and competition! I ran for charity events
(Cancer, Alzheimer’s, MS) and different holiday-themed races.
One memorable race was the Santa Fun Run- we were all given
Santa suits, beards, and hats and raced through The Shops of
Legacy streets in Plano! It was so much fun.
My racing days came to an end after a torn meniscus. Still, after
arthroscopic surgery and rehab, I could get out and walk, which
I am so grateful to do.
I healed so well I was able to do Zumba, dance, and do Tai Chi.
I continue to do all these activities and also enjoy my walks
around Frisco Lakes nearly every day. •

page 8 | celebrating life after 60!