axa @ 50 flashback- where were u

adapted from

friend's garden

 Scenes from my friend's garden during my visit today

 

 

how is retirement going

You probably can provide an answer to this perplexing phenomena. I have yet to figure out why people ask “how is retirement going” I do not recall ever being asked by those same people or others “how is work going”. Somehow the  question implies that retirement is a destination separate and apart from the normal everyday living experience and the inquirer is concerned and fearful of the ability of the retiree to cope.  I have surmised that there must be some ulterior motive and that the person asking truly want to assess the mental  state of mind out of curiosity,  or merely making conversation. But whatever the reason my response, because I am never sure what to say, after I allow a few minutes to lapse, is always the same; Great! 
But just for shock value, one day when I am asked how is retirement going, I will launch into a tirade about everything that ails me and wait for the reaction. To my mind, while the question on its face is not objectionable it begs a response that evokes a measured answer, but I may be wrong. Have you been asked the same question and what has been your response?  is it just me being totally idiotic because I truly don't know the answer.

jouvert in sxm

yesterday morning jouvert in sxm

jouvert

busy doing nothing

Earlier this year on a day trip to St. Martin, going from Marigot to Philipsburg a lady along the route was wearing a tank top which read across the chest  Busy Doing Nothing. I was fascinated by the phrase and since then have been thinking about the literal meaning, and whether or not I could bear witness to it in any way. This morning I had an epiphany, a defining moment where I can safely draw a parallel to my life and the phrase.  Perhaps you can relate. The day starts out with the best of intentions and at the end you have accomplished nothing on the list, notwithstanding that you have been on your feet all day actively engaged with numerous tasks. This in my estimation is a classic example of being busy doing nothing based on the inability to definitively quantify specifics. But do you really have to account for every moment in your day, similar to like keeping record of billable hours? the short answer is no; after all, the retirees ought not to be accountable for their time, so its ok to be busy doing nothing every now and again. Maybe we should all wear garments that proudly proclaim we are busy doing nothing.

health signs

This particular bit of humour turned out to be more real than thought, as the research shows one of the health signs as you age to look for is among others, tooth loss. Not to say that all retirees should become anxious about these things, but it is helpful to be aware, as these 5 issues were never a problem in younger years. The other indicators are bone loss, vision loss, arthritis, and diabetes.  

To combat these health issues the experts recommend eating healthy, which includes a well balanced diet while minimizing the intake of excessive amounts of salt and sugar. Coupled with regular exercise which increases your heart rate, the retiree can starve of the unhealthy signs and promote good health while enjoying active longevity.   

contemplating going abroad

I am curious about how many of my retired colleagues are eager to leave their home and sojourn abroad for any extended period. I am not. I am quite content with my environs and do not feel the least like upsetting that. There is in fact no place like home. I recall when I was in college and a young adult I had a never ending list of places to go see each weekend and holiday. A true jetsetter but these days, since retirement, its different.  I have resolved to relive my adventures of those wonderfully daring and carefree experiences,  Those were memorable

great times and I can supplement same with internet research and exploration for updates from the comfort of my humble abode. The only persons excited about my pending travel are my relatives and friends. I find that quite disconcerting. Do they know something I don't, and no one is telling me?  This is particularly troubling since none of them seem to want the responsibility of doing my biding during my absence. Crucial decision must be made when you prepare to go abroad. What mode of transport to choose air, sea, rail, bus, drive or a combination of all. Who will keep your pet, who will water your plants, make your payments, collect your mail, watch your house. All these inconveniences must be put upon another person. Last time I went away and left my dog in a friend's care the dog died, he found it a few days later. So now you understand my trepidation The biggest decision is how long to stay away, what will I pack. This is all too overwhelming. Why am I going abroad, again?

community service

Everyday save for inclement weather, Owen Mussington without fail can be seen doing community service on the Sandy Hill beach with his oversized rake removing the sargassum seaweed. The occasional person will join to chat or help for a few minutes. But there is a standing invitation for you. If you are retired, on vacation or just have some time to kill feel free to join him and keep the seaweed at bay. It’s a community service that will give you a feel good sensation and energize you at the same time. The sargassum seaweed is coming again invading and taking over the beaches but if we are proactive and manage the accumulation through community service the task will not be as daunting. Community is about the cumulative, and Owen need some assistance so come out to help.  

country conference

My absence was a matter of economics, a single income retiree often must make choices that are practical. In this instance US$50.00 was a bit much for this retiree as it had not been factored in the overall annual budget hence I did not attend. I resorted to listening to the part aired on radio and viewed on Lloyd Gumbs' facebook page as prompted by Flow. My retired colleague, who attended for academic stimulation, was not disappointed. For both days though generally enjoyable had this to say. It was information overload, too many speakers that crammed everything they knew in a 20 minute presentation. From listening I deduced that 23 papers from 27 countries to present in 2 days may well have been a bit tight. The downside to this is that some valuable points may not have been exhaustively ventilated given the limitation on time. I will endeavour to read as many of the subject papers that are available. What I heard was most enlightening and the fact that the revolution is not finished is heartening. I hope that you tuned in if you could not attend.

island harbour

Festival del Mar provided an opportunity for those who were suffering from cabin fever to get out in the open among fun-loving folk and enjoy the merriment. Island Harbour village was alive for 2 days and nights with throngs of people, country music, plenty plenty seafood and johnnie cakes both fried and baked, oh and lots of vehicles, to my mind each person there came in a separate vehicle. Though many mature persons left out of boredom the younger adults stayed on as did I until the wee hours. I was curious to meet and greet the returning belongers from foreign it was an opportunity to catch up and visit. Also I had out of town guest who wanted to savor the last moment. With all that was going on I was even lucky enough to get a marriage proposal. That did wonders for my ego considering I had been turned down 2 days prior. My biggest disappointment at the festival was the absence of the sojor-crab race, I had even taken my own in anticipation of winning. Oh well they will have to keep til next time.

arpa

The Anguilla Retired Persons Association (ARPA) met this past Tuesday and discussed a number of initiatives that are ongoing. There were a large number of persons in attendance however; more persons have yet to sign up. In order to take advantage of the numerous benefits available and to get your ARPA identification card that gives you access to even more privileges, you must be a member of ARPA.  The next meeting is slated for July 2017 though the specific date has not been set. Listen to your local radio stations closer to July when a day and time will be announced. In the interim complete and turn in your application form along with your annual subscription.

shout for joy

Start to finish the mature attendees at the St Augustine' s Anglican church on Easter Sunday were riveted to their seats as first the junior choir followed by the chorale administered praise by shouting with joy.

St. Augustine's Chorale

It was a beautiful programme that will be repeated this upcoming Sunday afternoon. If you did not have an opportunity to attend on Easter, the experience I promise will be well worth your while.

Go hear the choir shout for joy, they deserve a standing ovation.

tan tan

Marie Teresa Caraway nee Wilson was 95 when we nattered the summer of 2012 she died in November 2014 and this week April 2017 I learned for the first time she had passed. My aunt died 4+ years ago and I had no idea. After that 2012 visit thrice my friend returned to the convalescent home to be told she was not there. Attempts to get word to her that my father, her brother had passed in September 2015 were unsuccessful; unbeknownst to me she had herself died the year before from natural causes.  

There is an ineffable emotion that compels me to write about this as if closure can be achieved, sort of making up for not being present at the occasion to celebrate her life. I loved my aunt and she loved me and did more for me than any other. My father had one brother and one sister. The brother, my uncle John had migrated to the UK when I was a toddler; I have no knowledge of him as he never returned after he left Anguilla. My aunt Marie Teresa migrated to the US but made infrequent trips back to Anguilla.  We grew to dote on each other she saw herself in me and I kept in regular contact. Time permitting; we visited when my travels took me to the US state where she resided. She had 2 sons one predeceased her; she later resided with the other. As her circumstances, independence and self reliance, changed I experienced difficulty ascertaining her whereabouts. Her son, my cousin is not one to return calls or make contact though we know each other well. In 2012 I enlisted the assistance of my colleague in Houston and we located her in an assisted living community. I was in town for two days we chatted and joked she was not ill, just old she told me. Her memory was sharp and her wit quick but her knees was weak. At the time I did not even think that at 95 it was likely our last visit; perhaps because it was so joyous an occasion. Two years later she would have been 97. I am not sad or weepy just perplexed that my cousin didn’t let me know. He had my contact information all this time. Out of the clearest blue sky my cousin's son whatsapp message me this pass week, a first and I asked about her then he told me. R.I.P Tantan.

new skills

Acquire new skills after retirement. Tap into hidden talents, try new things, as the saying goes its never too late...

axa to ja

To comfort you Dr Velma Pollard, so sorry for the loss of your brother 

 

blessing

Same time same place next year

humour

 

good friday food

For as long as I can remember, and you probably can too, we would always have salt fish, ground provisions and dumplings on Good Friday. Over the years corn or potato dumpling/pone and vegetables have been added to the menu. Some folks even had corn soup with pig tail or corn beef. Good Friday is tomorrow and I am sure you have stocked up on saltfish or boneless cod, mackerel or smoke herring (soaking),green bananas, and sweet potatoes. Because cooking is not my best skill I leave that to the experts. Today I called my BFF and asked what she intended to cook. She was unsure about the potato dumpling because she didn’t have any grape leaves as the ones she had seen were too small. She doesn’t like cooking the conkie dumpling in foil or the other options. So to ensure there are dumplings on Friday, I volunteered to go driving around Anguilla scoping out grape trees to see which ones have big leaves. On Good Friday, my food comes from several good cooks. Valentine delivers in time for early breakfast, the annual potluck 2 arrives about 9, and Monica brings the platter that lasts for a week, early afternoon.  Thereafter I am summoned by Leona to pick up my plate.  At some point Owen drops off the eggplant lasagna while Ingrid will send Humphrey to bring a piping hot dish. Of course Lisette want to exchange but like Ann and Aphy never miss an opportunity to bring food no matter how late.  By sundown I would have 7-8 differently prepared saltfish plates, be completely sated with a refrigerator of food sufficient to last the next week and a half. But for the most part I would be grateful and thankful for all my considerate and doting friends that make sure I have Good Friday food. May your friends be as generously kind to you as mine are to me.

 Collard greens,stewed eggplant,smoked herring,tomato and boiled egg

wah you do all day

The question when put to me about my goings on gave me an occasion to examine my routine.
Khalfani Omari Fullerton is a hotshot, Jaguar driving lawyer that lives in Houston, who used whatsapp to give me a call last Saturday evening. After we exchanged the customary pleasantries, he inquired as to what I did all day now that I was retired. Having never thought about it, I attempted to recount what I had done the day before. Unbelievable he said in a jovial but skeptical manner. In answering his question I realized that no two days were the same, for me and to accurately explain that to him was near impossible. He would be unable to understand that routine and schedules were a thing of the past that I had no Court dockets to be present for, no briefs to file, no looming deadlines, no clients to represent, no conference calls, no jail visits, no bumper to bumper traffic on the overpass high above Houston. He couldn't identify with my current lifestyle. 

Had to  explain that I roll out of  bed at 4am walk until it is daybreak, walk down to the beach, do aerobic and yoga stretches, return home, putter about the yard/garden for as long as I wished, have anything for breakfast and there the similarity to the other days ended. Somewhere along the way these two chums from law school could no longer predict with any degree of certainty what the other’s typical day was like. Our lives changed as did the circle. It goes to show there is truth in the adage

 :

a cure all

A gentle reminder to retirees that there are benefits to keeping the body in motion,  

physical n physio therapy

It was both disconcerting and more than a little alarming to realize that 8 of my younger retired friends were currently engaged in some form of physical/physio therapy at least 2 times a week. Their ailments were related to the neck, leg, knee, back, arm, hand, feet and sciatica. To me just about every muscle and ligament on the human skeleton seemed curable by therapy. So I inquired from my friend the physician who explained that though sometimes used interchangeably the titles 'Physiotherapist' and 'Physical therapist' are different and a referral is based on the severity of injury and rehabilitative need of the patient, that it is vitally important to be able to differentiate between these titles so you can be fully aware of the therapist’s qualifications when seeking treatment for your musculoskeletal problem. I also learned that neither the masseuse at the spa nor my friends that can rub good (good rubbers) are qualified to administer therapy and that in some cases it takes up to 7 years to qualify as a physical therapist,  In response to why doctor referrals to physical/physio therapy appear to be trending upwards. The short answer, it is an option to dispensing traditional medicine to alleviate pain. That being the case, it is safe to suggest to the retiree that we may be on to something with our pet therapy since such can only augment and aid this other therapy. 

holy week devotions

Traditionally, during the Lenten season and in particular the week leading up to Easter Sunday the Episcopal churches hold services daily. For 2017 the midday devotions are held as follows:

Monday 10^th April @ St. Mary’s Anglican Church

Tuesday 11^th April @ St. Gerards’ Catholic Church

Wednesday 12^th April @ Ebenezer Methodist Church

Thursday 13^th April @ St. Mary’s Anglican Church

Friday 14^th April @ St. Mary’s Anglican Church (12-3)

the usa stats

In Anguilla our aim is to change these numbers

celebrating axa 50th anniversary

Talking about activities taking place for Anguilla Day gave rise to the fact that; if the Government of Anguilla deemed it fitting to have two official holidays to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the Anguilla Revolution, the least my retired buddy and I felt we should do was to commemorate the occasion by doing something  out of the ordinary. The second of the two holidays is dedicated to the round the island boat race, Anguilla's national sport.

So, the plan is to join the multitude of scantly clad revelers on the loud and festive party barge that follows the around the island boat race on the 31^st May 2017. This may not seem like a big deal to you, but it is. You must understand that neither Ingrid nor I drink alcohol; do not party, are extremely conservative and will probably be the most senior and sober, overdressed persons on that boat. Because such an adventure is on Ingrid's bucket list, and I like the idea, I will accompany her. We are looking to reserve a place on the party boat as soon as possible to avert a change of heart. If you know where we can obtain such tickets, please let us know. What are you thinking of doing to mark this momentous milestone? Feel free to make plans to join us as we celebrate; take the challenge by accompanying us as we make a historical memory. Together we can make the boat ride memorable and earn bragging rights to boot.
Meanwhile,  on  tomorrow Saturday, we will accompany the Anguilla National Trust on one of its 50th Anguilla Revolution anniversary events. Its a hike that starts at 7am by Rebel Marine in North Hill through Katouche  along the cave and if the sea cooperates will traverse the coastline. This route will be a new area of exploration for me and promises to be fun. The Anguilla National Trust usually have these educational programmes throughout the year. Retirees, because I know it matters to you, the hike is free, think about joining us tomorrow.

meet blogee

This is Blogee

The choice of name is related to the fact that he will play a significant role in the blogging process for the blogger as well as provide perspective for blog context. By way of introduction Blogee came from Israel, he is settling in comfortably at the Chateau de Auhawi estate enjoying being spoiled by all. Confident that you familiarized yourself yesterday with the benefits of having a pet, I hope you can't wait to choose yours. My wish is that now you have met my pet you feel compelled to get your own as soon as possible.

pet therapy

The pet of choice for me has always been a dog, as far back as I remember . In my lifetime I have had a large number of them. I love my Anguilla mutt. So this past weekend when I got a male puppy from Israel I wanted to share my excitement and encourage you to get a pet. In researching reasons why you should, I learnt that there was a correlation between pet and retiree, pet therapy. No matter what your choice of pet, owning one provides therapy. Below are the some of the key benefits of having a pet:

For Mental Health

·       Lifts spirits and lessens depression

·       Decreases feelings of isolation and alienation

·       Encourages communication

·       Provides comfort

·       Increases socialization and sense of community

·       Reduces boredom

·       Decreases anxiety

·       Creates motivation to recover faster

·       Reduces loneliness

For Physical Health

·       Lowers blood pressure

·       Improves cardiovascular health

·       Releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect

·       Diminishes overall physical pain

·       The act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need

401(k)

When I booted up the computer today, one of the lead stories from the Wall Street Journal was titled “The Rising Retirement Perils of 401(k) 'Leakage'. “ These days any article that mentions the word retirement gets my immediate and undivided attention. Here’s what I garnered from this article.  You already know that in the United States of America the retirement age is 65 though not compulsory, as there are incentives to encourage persons to stay in the work force until age 72.  The 401(k) is an automatic enrolment program offered by employers to employees, both parties contribute. Much like the Anguilla public service pension fund, a contributory pension scheme, except that you can borrow against your contributions and when you leave the company you take the funds out. The news story highlighted the dangers/threats associated with the withdrawals and loans against the 401(k) when persons leave the employ early or borrow against the fund causing what is called leakage. The article warns that leakage jeopardies the ability of the fund to grow rapidly thus there may not be enough money to pay out adroitly at the retirement age.

We do not operate 401(k) in Anguilla but those in private employment may find the implementation of a similar retirement scheme beneficial in the long run. Other than the Public Service Pension Fund there are currently no formal retirement plans that this author is aware of in Anguilla save of course for the partner hand.  Well retiree, there goes a lucrative business venture idea. 

cat cow point flex

Dawn does an extraordinary job demonstrating the cat, cow, point, flex yoga stretch exercises each Tuesday and Thursday morning at the beach on Sandy Hill from 6-7. It’s adrenaline-charged, a great way to start the day. The fun part comes when, after the routine, retirees take a dip in the ocean and stay a while to catch up as the gainfully employed colleagues’ dash off to get ready for the workday. However beneficial the cat cow point and flex was, the reality at that moment is aptly coined by the words of Oscar Wilde, that no good deed goes unpunished. Grudgingly, the others bid hasta la vista and other Latin phrases as they take their departure, while we allow  the seawater  to massage away any vestiges of the cat, the cow, the point or the flex.