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Just joined so I'm introducing myself.

I will be 67 next month and retired from the many different jobs in my working life. I guess that I didn’t ever find my calling. I went to university at age 59 but when it was over it was too late to launch a new career. I wanted to lecture but students don’t want to listen to old fogies, so sadly I put aside that idea and settled into life as an eccentric dog owner.

I live in a beautiful Lancashire valley surrounded by hills that demand they be walked/climbed, how could I refuse?

I would like to do a bit of cycle touring but a recent diagnosis of spondylosis and some hip pain means that I may not be doing a world tour anytime soon!

I’m keen to make some friends as I have been on my own for a very long time now, my daughters don’t bother much with me and I don’t have a partner.I didn’t expect to be so isolated at this time in my life, isn’t it strange the way family and friends seem to forget us when we get past 60?

I will pop in regularly and hope to strike up some friendships.


Created By on 09/03/2015

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Josephinea
28th Apr 2016 19:49:53
0
Thanks for voting!
Welcome to SilverSurvers, Alto. I am Josephinea from N.Ireland and just joined too. I love reading thriller books and walking. I have 2 grown up kids too. I'm 56 and divorced 25 years now. I love these new adult colouring books that are out. Great ones out by Millie Marietta. It's great you're getting to travel. I' m sure it will be amazing.
Alto
28th Apr 2016 17:37:04
0
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Hello all,

Another one who's just joined. Age 50 with two children (one still at home three years after finishing uni but starting teacher training in September, and the other one handing in his final MEng submission tomorrow so he'll be back home as well very soon) and married to my lovely husband for very nearly 25 years.

I was made redundant a couple of weeks ago so currently twiddling my thumbs and wondering what to do next - more of the same or do I attempt a change of career? I was originally a primary school teacher but have been a Technical Author for the last 18 or so years, and dabble in website design in my spare time. I suppose I have rather more of that now!

Heading off to New England and Canada in a few weeks' time (luckily all paid for before redundancy reared its ugly head) and planning to visit the Galapagos next year, finances permitting.

Interested to know if anyone else here has changed career relatively late on, and if so how easy/hard did you find it? I want to do some voluntary work but can't commit to anything until I know what my longer term plans are going to be.
Josephinea
27th Apr 2016 14:17:15 (Last activity: 27th Apr 2016 14:22:40)
0
Thanks for voting!
I have just joined too!! Been divorced 25 years now. My 2 kids are all grown up and doing their own things. No grandchildren so life quite dull and quiet now. I enjoy walking though and reading thrillers. Just bought 3 new ones. "Behind closed doors", "If she did it" and " The stranger within". Have no idea what they're going to be like but will update as I get through them.
Response from Silversurfers Editor made on 27th Apr 2016 14:22:40
Hello and welcome Josephinea ... sounds like you are a bit of a book worm, so you may be interested in our Silversurfers Book Club: https://www.silversurfers.com/lifestyle/book-club/silversurfers-book-club-spring-2016/ Do feel free to join in, and also add reviews of the books that you are reading too! 🙂
anf1408
25th Apr 2016 15:46:04
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi. I have also just joined. I'm 53 and married with a grown up daughter. I also chose to go to university later in life (when I was 45). I have just moved to Devon and I work from home and combine this with researching for a PhD looking at the role of popular music in film. As a result I spend most of my day sat alone in front of a computer so I thought it would brighten up my day to chat online to others about anything and everything.
Poppy48
24th Apr 2016 16:32:52 (Last activity: 25th Apr 2016 15:25:32)
0
Thanks for voting!
I haven't been on here for a bit. It seems that when you retire you will get to do lots of things. The mind is willing but the body fails you at times. I was a keen walker but now how problem knee and foot. Have had injections and decided just to get on with things. I have now started walking again albeit short walks (4 miles instead of the 12 or so that I did with the walking club). I love going into the Peak District the scenery and quiet is very welcome.

Try and not feel isolated. I have joined different clubs such as U3A, Heritage Society and the British Legion. It gives me that umph to get out of the house. My bike has sat in my shed for the past 2 years but am going to get it out and see how I get on, knee willing.

I do have a dog and get to talk to other dog walkers.

You seem to have some lovely countryside around you. We have canals and I love taking the dog for a walk along those mostly on my own, chatting to myself, in my head of course.

I too like to make friends so hopefully if you still come on here we can have a chat again.
Response from Pam1960 made on 25th Apr 2016 06:30:03
Hi Poppy.
Have you thought about using an electric bike. They are pedal assisted rather than mopeds. If you are struggling with your knees this would be ideal for you.Lots of people think that you don't get the same benefits as from cycling on a normal pushbike but that isn't so. The pedal assist will allow you to cycle further, faster and easier without putting stress on your body. Of course you can always switch the assist off and use it as a normal bike as well and only get the assistance on hills or if you get tired. Electric bikes are the fastest growing sector in the cycling market. Many people think these bikes are for oldies but they are not. Many young people use them for commuting or downhill mountain biking. The Monsal Trail in The Peak District have them as part of their hire fleet so why not give it a go next time you are in the area. Most bike shops have demo models as well which you can take out for a test. I used to work for a bike company and I can tell you that everyone who tried an ebike at any event we attended absolutely loved them and said they were the best fun ever.
Response from Silversurfers Editor made on 25th Apr 2016 09:01:12
Just saw your message about electric bikes ... I just turned 53 and was given an electric mountain bike for my birthday! I have to say it is the best thing I have ever had! It is so much fun and means I can tackle hills and terrain that I never thought possible. Everyone who has had a go on it, comes back with the biggest smile on their face, and I even got my 86 year old father-in-law on it yesterday for a little test drive! I know they come in a range of styles, including road bikes as well. It is certainly worth testing one to get a feel for how they can change your life. They are on the pricey side, but a great investment to keep you fit and healthy, and so much fun!
Response from Poppy48 made on 25th Apr 2016 15:25:32
The electric bike seems like a very good idea. I know someone who has one and they say very easy to use and no effort. I guess as you say pricey so unfortunately at the moment couldn't get one. I will get my bike out of the shed as see how I go on. Watch this space.
peternicho
24th Apr 2016 21:09:49
0
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Hi, l have just joined the SilverSurfers and have been retired for a year just had my 66th birthday, my mind still thinks its about 18yr but the body reveals it isn''t 18yrs old any longer. You did well to obtain your degree seems a shame not to follow up to implement what you have learned...what subject did you get your degree in?
mazzmari
1st Apr 2016 16:16:09 (Last activity: 24th Apr 2016 16:48:19)
0
Thanks for voting!
Hello I have been a member of Silver surfers for a while but never really chatted before.I am retired 68 yrs old .been widowed 23 yrs.Family all grown and fledged, I have 6 lovely grandchildren and of course my dog .I live in a village in Cambridgeshire and do enjoy driving my car ,holidaying on boats .But life can be lonely sometimes so do enjoy chatting to people .
Response from Dave r made on 4th Apr 2016 20:26:05
I'm looking for some one from carterton
Response from Poppy48 made on 24th Apr 2016 16:48:19
Hi there. I haven't been on here for awhile. Weather not nice today raining and even hail. I have four grandsons but they live in Cornwall so don't get to see them that often. I visited about three weeks ago so it was great to see them, all growing up very fast. I was born in St Neots but we only lived there for six months and have been up North since. I took have a dog, a cocker spaniel. Its good to get out for walks and chat to other people. I have joined different organisations as its good to get out and not stare at four walls.

Hopefully would be good to make friends on here and have a chat.
fingers348
18th Apr 2016 15:49:20 (Last activity: 24th Apr 2016 16:40:40)
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi, I have just joined, and am looking for friends.
I am a widower living alone in the North East of England (Stockton on Tees).
I am a retired Musical Director and Pianist with lots of time on my hands, would love to meet new friends.
If you would like a chat, get in touch.
Rich.
Response from Poppy48 made on 24th Apr 2016 16:40:40
Haven't been on here for a long time. Its raining and miserable outside so decided to chat and see if I can make friends. As a child I had the opportunity to learn the piano but was very shy and would't go to lessons. How lovely to be able to get lost in music. Since retiring I have joined a group called Singing For Pleasure - it means just that as most of us can't say we are great singers and we are fortunate that we have a lady playing the piano which helps. I always come away feeling really uplifted.
Trampas1955
19th Sep 2015 18:03:05 (Last activity: 18th Apr 2016 22:13:59)
0
Thanks for voting!
I'm 60 and live in Coventry. I work part time looking after the elderly haha what a cliché! Daft
but true. I've just come out of hospital after a viral infection but OK now.
Response from celtwitch Original Poster made on 20th Sep 2015 11:15:30
Hello and I hope you are feeling better after your viral infection?
I did a bit of care work myself, when I was a student, it was probably the worst kind of work I ever did, some of the oldies were so rude, unpleasant and smelly!
I have never been to Coventry, what's it like, have you got lots of 'cultural enrichers' like in Birmingham?
Response from Linda59 made on 2nd Apr 2016 23:21:04
Hi. Where in Coventry do u live. I used to live in hillfields.
Response from TheFatController made on 18th Apr 2016 22:13:59
Hi, hope you are well now and hospital in Coventry treated you well. Coventry you either like it or hate it, I moved from Nuneaton 3 years ago now live in Fordingbridge Hants. Hmmmm love it. Ps new here so just getting stuck in.
Mistylady
16th Apr 2016 14:40:27
0
Thanks for voting!
I have just joined not to sure what I am doing but will have a go.I have just retired miss work and business but finding new things to entertain myself. I love dogs especially labs, yes so have to walk which is great. Live near Lancashire, have travelled a bit in the past.I enjoy soul music loved the seventies but also I am open minded about music and life I suppose. Still ambitious sounds mad but true. I too will keep checking in if I can remember how to, bye for now.
Blueboy46
15th Apr 2016 20:37:03
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi all just joined looking for friendship and fun really don't like this being on my own .
Shadowman
13th Apr 2016 04:54:35 (Last activity: 13th Apr 2016 18:00:55)
2
Thanks for voting!
I also recently joined and have tried a few other forums, mainly for casual conversation and discussion. This seems the most complicated forum I have encountered but will try to get the hang of it.
Response from Silversurfers Editor made on 13th Apr 2016 07:24:41
Hello Shadowman, welcome to Silversurfers and thanks for your feedback. We would be grateful if you could advise what you find difficult to navigate on Silversurfers. Also which other forums you have used. Many thanks Sally
Response from Shadowman made on 13th Apr 2016 18:00:55
Looking for an easier way to find the forum topics and most recent posts on topics and latest posts.
Anoif58
7th Apr 2016 14:00:49
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi I'm Fiona 58 living in the Isle of Man. Recently returned from Australia after 11 years as Mum now 92. Im looking for travel buddies. I have travelled alone, but feel safer with other people. Looking to visit Iceland next year, and Peru, Machu Pichu the following year. Like painting, DIY, my two dogs, photography( but I need a nice camera)cooking, currently doing a Professional Interior Design course online, may relocate in a couple of years to a warmer climate, and depending on job opportunities.☺
brizo
28th Mar 2016 21:42:05 (Last activity: 3rd Apr 2016 21:35:59)
0
Thanks for voting!
Just joined looking forward to joining in
Response from suki1965 made on 3rd Apr 2016 04:50:01
Hi there I am new myself if you feel like chatting let me know.
Response from Goldfynche made on 3rd Apr 2016 21:35:59
I suppose I must be lucky. I don't mind being alone. I'm not anti social, but do prefer my own company sometimes. At the moment I live with my daughter (my house) She is recently divorced. And As I previously said elsewhere. My two children more than doubled their appreciation of their remaining parent after their mother passed away 8 years ago.
raymond678
3rd Apr 2016 06:47:22
0
Thanks for voting!
good morning I'm 64 and sadly you are right we get past 60 and no one seems to care my sons and daughter are the same it all to much to come and see you .my partner died after 20 years . and the house is in trust to me for life .she has a son and vile daughter who just wants me died so she can sell the house and get the cash what a carry on I live in Windsor a very lonely place to be so I know how you feel hope to talk soon
silversteph
28th Mar 2016 23:42:33
-1
Thanks for voting!
Just joined myself after being told of this site by my younger sister. Retired and will be 67 later this year and have lots to keep my husband and myself busy, including doing daily school runs for the grandchildren. during the winter months I like to knit and crochet, but during the summer the garden and allotments take over, with time to spare to catch up on reading.
dizzybear
27th Mar 2016 19:52:02
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi Have just joined so am introducing myself, I am a 61 year young widow having lost my husband of 37 years 2 years ago last christmas, I am very easy going with a good sense of humour and am keen to make new friends as enjoy a good chat, moan or whatever comes up over a coffee. so please reply in you are in need of a friendly ear to have a chat with on here or over a coffee.
mja275
22nd Feb 2016 22:11:46 (Last activity: 26th Mar 2016 21:58:27)
2
Thanks for voting!
Hi. I know how you feel. I didn't expect to be isolated and lonely at 63 after living the high life and globe trotting in my younger days. I never married or had kids so I'm all alone in the scrap heap. I looked online for retirement homes and found this site. So here I am hoping to meet like minded people.
Response from Torneryd made on 26th Feb 2016 09:42:08
Hi there, have just joined myself..... and am looking for friend to travel with etc. Where are you based? I am based in Brighton.
Response from Trampas1955 made on 3rd Mar 2016 18:39:47
Hi my name's John and I'm from Warwickshire.
Response from Wilf made on 26th Mar 2016 21:58:27
Which countries did you visit mja when you were globetrotting?
marline
10th Jan 2016 07:21:14 (Last activity: 26th Mar 2016 13:52:42)
4
Thanks for voting!
Hi I'm new here. Just wanting to talk to someone. Lost my husband last month of25 years. Feeling lonely and lost. Thought this might help
Response from jacksonjulie made on 10th Jan 2016 15:58:32
Hi Marline, so sorry for your loss. What kind of things do you enjoy doing?
Response from Marigold67 made on 2nd Feb 2016 11:42:56
Hi Mariline
I'm new like you just joined. I feel to contact you as we have something in common. I have lost my husband of 46 years last May. I do now how you feel although you sound much younger just a guess. Lonely life is not healthy for no one regardless of their age. You don't say where you live? I hope you can start to get out and about. That's what I did. Trust me it helps.
Regards
Response from Poppy48 made on 6th Feb 2016 22:59:35
Sorry for your loss Martine. I'm divorced so not the same but always felt that I would be married for life. Big shock and loss to me. Time is a healer I wish you all the best.
Response from AuntyG made on 18th Feb 2016 23:28:36
Hello Marline, so sorry to hear that your husband has passed away. I too lost my husband of 25 years, so I understand how you feel. If you ever feel like a chat, please let me know. I'm not always on-line, but I will reply to you, when I am. Sending you a big hug xx
Response from dixie53 made on 19th Feb 2016 02:36:36
hi --my husband is still alive but he is always sick--dialysis patient--so I feel alone--lost my daughter 3 years ago and the hurt is still there--should never bury your kids--but I can say time helps some--if you need to talk let me know--I too am new to site and feel 1loney
Response from Tirah made on 7th Mar 2016 14:53:07
Hi I lost my wonderful husband of 30 years a while back. It is so very very hard especially in the early days when days have little sunshine or smiles and it can be hard to even function.
I read a lot around the subject and found a wonderful book called life lessons. It,s by Kubler Ross and Kesler. And is about peoples approach to grief and the different ways they manage.
I remember well the loneliness despite the fact I had lots of support. Be kind to yourself and realise this is a process and you will emerge. You will see joy again but it takes time. You and only you will know when that time starts to appear again.
Until then find delight in small things. For me it was poetry and the countryside but whatever takes your fancy.
You have made a great start reaching out so far.
Sending sunshine and rainbows to lighten your way.
Response from SaSSy16 made on 12th Mar 2016 13:20:32
You can talk to me whenever you want. What do you like doing.
Response from lucky64 made on 26th Mar 2016 13:52:42
hey Marline sorry to hear about your loss I lost my wife of 38 years Aug last year and am still finding my way trying to come to grips with that loss and lonely feeling but it is getting better as time passes. I joined this site a few days ago so can't tell you if this might help or not but if you ever need a chat let me know.
Cleo57
26th Mar 2016 08:37:15
0
Thanks for voting!
Hi
just joined too began to realise around Xmas who alone I was becoming wasn't expecting that! I am lucky that I have two very supportive children who live close by but I really don't want to burden them.I don't have a partner either have tried dating sites not really the answer is it? I have various crafty type hobbies again hard to know where to start to find like minded folk
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