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Living spontaneously at 87 means saying yes to the kind of moments that make you pause and say, “Wow” even when you don’t know what the moment will be like. Recently, I had the honor of celebrating my dear friend Ann’s 90th birthday—a woman who’s been part of my story since I was 19.

Ann and I met at Mount Vernon School of Nursing. After graduation, life took us in different directions, but fate had a funny way of looping us back together. Years later, she moved to Middletown where i was living, about 75 miles north of Mount Vernon and not only did our paths cross again, but our children ended up in the same high school. Her daughters and my kids Lance and Kelly became friends and shared many teenage memories. Small world? Absolutely.

We worked side by side at Family Care in Middletown for over a decade, building on the foundation we created in nursing school. Eventually, Ann moved outside of Albany, but we never lost touch. Last year, I did something that made me feel proud and empowered—I took the train from Poughkeepsie to Albany all by myself to visit her. It’s those things that seem simple when I was much younger that bring me the most pride today. That trip was more than a reunion; it was a celebration of independence, friendship, and the kind of bond that time only strengthens.

Ann is still active, vibrant, and yes—she still drives! I, on the other hand, have zero desire to get behind the wheel. But I’ll hop on a train or dance at a party any day.

Her birthday celebration was held at Silver Bay YMCA Camp on Lake George,( https://silverbay.org/) which was AMAZING. The history of the camp was shared with us by one of the camp guides that has worked there for over 40 years. Kelly came with me, and we soaked in the serenity and the laughter, and literally the water of Lake George when we did the boat tour! It was a weekend of reflection and joy, and it made me think: I’m not just looking forward to my own 90th birthday—I’m going to start planning it.

Because life doesn’t slow down at 80. If anything, it gets richer. And if you’re lucky, it brings you back to the people who helped shape your journey, reminding you that some connections are simply meant to last.

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There’s something magical about the moment you realize you can do something on your own—

I was heading to Puerto Rico for my granddaughter Nicole’s wedding to her beautiful bride, BreAna. But before the beachside vows and the joyful family reunion, there was a quiet triumph: I got myself to Grand Central Station. Alone. Confident. Empowered.

I commuted to Grand Central a lot during my career and part of why I chose to live where I live is because of the close proximity to the train. So, taking the train to meet my Grandson Jeffrey felt like the perfect way to start this trip. We spent the night at his apartment in Greenwich Village, and the next morning, we were up early and off to JFK.

The wedding was held right on the beach, with the ocean breeze and sunset light that was absolutely picture perfect. Nicole and BreAna were radiant—two glowing brides, each with their unique look, surrounded by family. I had the joy of being there with several of my grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each moment a reminder of how rich life becomes when we show up for each other.

My great niece and a professional makeup artist, gave me a makeover that was truly amazing!
I usually stick to lipstick, but this time I let her work her magic—and I felt fabulous. It was more than makeup; it was a celebration of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the moment.

This trip reminded me that spontaneity isn’t just about booking a flight or saying yes to a new experience—it’s about trusting yourself. It’s about knowing that independence doesn’t fade with age; it deepens. And when you start a journey with confidence, everything that follows feels like a gift.

So here’s to spontaneous joy, to family, to love in all its forms—and to the quiet victories that make the biggest difference.

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I am Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Biggest Fan! You can’t tell me anything different! So when I found out I would be meeting him I couldn’t believe it!!

I first learned about Giannis reading an article on a plane 10 years ago and started following his career.  His story resonated with me because of the racism he faced and how close he was to his family.  I wouldn’t call myself an NBA fan but I certainly became a Milwaukee Bucks fan.  I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited about a team winning a championship as I was when the Bucks won the championship.  I’ve been to a game before and never imagined then I would have the opportunity to meet Giannis.  When my daughter told me she had submitted an application to Wish of a Lifetime through AARP https://wishofalifetime.org/ for me to meet him I still never thought it would happen.  When they called several months ago to inquire more about my wish I was ecstatic!  The team from AARP was very thorough and actually interviewed me. During the interview they told me it was not a guarantee that I would meet him but they might be able to send me to a game and asked if I would view that as a Wish of a Lifetime.  I had to be honest and tell them no.  I mean I had already been to a game.  After that interview a couple of months went by and I didn’t hear anything else so I figured that was that.   

Then in June my daughter told me she needed me to jump on a Zoom call with the family to discuss something that was coming up.  Once we were all on, she announced– “Congratulations—You are going to meet Giannis” I couldn’t believe it!  My Wish had been granted!  AARP was going to fly me and a guest to Chicago to meet Giannis.  Christina at AARP was AMAZING!  She paid attention to every detail even making sure I had a poster to be signed and adjusting my travel to accommodate a trip I previously had planned. My grandson Thomas travelled with me and it was wonderful to have that 1-1 time with him.  Our original flight to Chicago was cancelled but we got on one the next day which was good thinking by Christina to consider possible flight issues.  We were meeting Giannis at the The National Sports Card Convention – July 30 – August 3, 2025 | Donald E. Stevens Convention Center. Shout out to The National for comping our tickets to get in. I would be able to get a picture with him and his brothers and also get an autograph.  When I was going up to get the picture I said to my daughter—I can’t believe I’m this close to him!!  Being able to stand next to him for the picture was even closer! I couldn’t stop smiling!

I also am a big fan of his mom – Veronica.  Her story of how she raised her family was inspiring to me.  So I wrote a letter to his Mom and when I went to get the autograph, I handed the letter to him and asked him to give it to his mom (I also wrote him a letter).  He was so surprised!  That was amazing!  The whole experience is something I will never forget. 

At this stage in my life experiences are what fuel me.  I have been blessed in so many ways and to have spent 87 years on this earth is something I don’t take for granted.  The team at AARP and specifically Christina Jay will long be appreciated by me and my family.  The special moments I had with my grandson are also something I will never forget. I will hold onto these memories and keep being spontaneous and embracing all that life brings my way.  #Spontaneighty