A rolling stone gathers no moss
Staying active, staying engaged
Cultivating friendships and social connection
A rolling stone gathers no moss
Just ask Howard.
He’s always been a man of action, both during his career and through the many pursuits he enjoys now at Holiday Parkview in Allen.
For decades, Howard worked as a noise control engineer solving complex acoustical issues in a variety of industries – from reducing echoes in cavernous retail stores to silencing squeaky Cirque du Soleil elevators intended to magically – and silently – transport performers onstage.
The role required a keen mind, an appreciation for details and a love for the technical side of things. So, it’s no surprise that after retiring, Howard continues to seek new ways to challenge his mind. Poetry is just one of many.
"Writing is really good for my self-confidence and my brain," he said. "It keeps my brain active, and that's what's important to me."
Though he had written plenty of technical articles, Howard never thought of himself as a poet – until retirement gave him the time and space to explore it. Now, he regularly writes verses, even composing special poems for friends. It's an artistic outlet Howard finds deeply rewarding, and he encourages others to find similar ways to keep their minds engaged.
Staying active, staying engaged
Howard said retirement isn't for kicking back and relaxing. Not all the time, anyway.
"It doesn't mean sitting on the couch and watching TV," he said. "That's not my thing. I like to get out and do things. Travel."
And travel he does. Howard has explored the globe – from New Zealand to India to Canada and beyond. One of his favorite excursions has been aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train that crosses the stunning landscapes of Canada. After several Mountaineer journeys, Howard was ready to go again – this time to share the experience with Nancy, his friend and fellow Holiday resident.
Whether he travels alone or with a companion, Howard turns every adventure into a creative opportunity.
“A while back, I started making color photo note cards with my photography,” he said. “For instance, this one happens to be a picture of a New Zealand sunset. I’ve traveled down there five different times.”
The note cards are fun to make and a good excuse for Howard to spend time with his granddaughter. He displays and sells his cards in her shop.
But before you assume Howard's spirit of adventure only applies to personal pursuits, think again. He believes in staying involved in the larger community, both inside and out of Holiday.
"There are a lot of activities here," he explained, noting that life in a senior living community doesn’t equal a life of isolation. Instead, it offers ample opportunities to engage with others and share your skills and talents.
One of Howard's contributions is recycling newspapers. For the past several years, he's collected, boxed and donated them to local animal shelters, making an all-around positive impact on the community and the environment.
"People are interested in that, and they come in and give you what they have," he said. "It's something I really enjoy doing."
Cultivating friendships and social connection
Howard's sense of community extends to his neighbors. He’s formed lasting friendships, like the one with his friend Nancy. Together, they've worked on a variety of projects, including the community’s garden.
"I can dig the holes, but I can't bend down and get the weeds out," Howard joked. "But Nancy can do that very well!"
Howard and Nancy also work together on a community newsletter, Spotlight News, which Howard started a few years ago. The publication focuses on the people who live at Holiday, offering stories that highlight their interesting lives.
From interviews with a woman born and raised in India to a retired crop duster, Howard and Nancy enjoy finding and sharing fascinating stories.
"It's amazing what you learn about people when you start interviewing them," Howard said. "That's what living in a community like this is all about."
A balanced lifestyle
These days, Howard finds balance in his daily routine. The community offers three delicious meals a day, and he appreciates the structure they bring. He said he keeps his weight in check by eating a balanced lunch and often skipping dinner, and he loves the daily opportunities to stay physically active.
One of his daily rituals is walking. Howard is inspired by other residents who aim to walk several miles a day.
"It's how you meet people," he said, recounting a recent conversation with a resident about her daily walks.
Finding his place
Howard believes finding the right place to live is key to a happy retirement. He suggests anyone considering a move to a senior living community take the time to explore different options to make sure they find the right fit.
“Come visit and eat a meal, eat lunch,” Howard said. “Tour around and bring a list of questions. You’ve got to be prepared.”
Always analytical, Howard naturally shopped around before landing on Holiday. In the end, it was the right choice, and he says he’s here to stay.
Embracing the future
A few years into his retirement, Howard continues to live with purpose. He’s not content to rest on his laurels; he’s active, involved and always on the hunt for new ways to explore and engage with life.
Whether it’s writing, traveling, photography, gardening or volunteering, Howard’s story is a testament to the sort of fulfilling lifestyle that’s possible at any age. For him, retirement isn’t the end of the journey – it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
For others looking to make the most of their retirement years, Howard offers this advice:
"Be active in your community and try new things," he suggested. "Stay connected with people and keep your mind engaged. This is your time to live life to the fullest."
And judging by Howard’s life, he’s certainly doing just that.
At Holiday, Howard found the perfect environment to continue thriving. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to explore the possibilities of retirement with enthusiasm, purpose and social connection.
Find the Holiday community near you and arrange a visit today.
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