Who will I be at 75? How do I get there?

Since I work in the hospital, I see it all. Many people say that, but until you see someone stare death straight in the eye, it doesn't mean a whole lot.
And in the hospital, I see all ages, but what really interests me are the people who we refer to as "elderly." Some are happy, some are sad, some are hopeful, and some want to give up. There are few that have partners of 60 years and some with a new one of just two years. Some shine brightly and some don't have an ounce of life in their eyes. All of these encounters have led me to think...Where do I want to be when I am 75? Who do I want to be? What do I want to be? And how do I get there?
Many of you guys know more than me. Let's discuss this. Help me find out what and who you want to be. Give me advice.

Not really on the blog topic...but soooo funny!!

Irish Brew

So, it has been one week back in the States...one week back to work...one week since my last Guinness. What is one to do? Browse through pics, reminisce with my hubby, or sneak to an Irish bar and try to find a pint?
Ireland held so many surprises. I was expecting the beautiful landscape. I knew there would be quiant villages, and I was looking forward to the burgeoning Irish cuisine. But one thing that was a pleasant (and by pleasant, I mean tipsy) surprise was the national brew, the Irish black gold...Guinness.
Let's be honest, one look at the creamy foam and silky black syrup, taking a sip is a must. But, the first time I tried the brew in the States, it was a bit...bitter. However, when we were in Ireland, I knew I had to give it a second chance. And oh how wrong I had been!!!
Here's how it unfolded.
Bo and I walk into a bar. It isn't just any bar. It is what one would imagine an Irish country side pub would look like. The server's outfit is pressed. He is wearing a vest and handles the glassware and spirits with respect. It has been a long day of tourist trouncing for us, and we were a tad exhausted. We place elbows on the wooden counter and the server asks our pleasure. "Two pints of Guinness," Bo says. I look at him, questioning his choice. We waited 15 minutes (this is proper pouring technique, 3/4 full, let it settle, and then finish the job). Finally the stout took its place in our waiting hands. A sip, a gulp. And a foamed stained smile crept on my face. Pure heaven!! Two Guinnesses a day for seven days and three pounds later, I have decided Ireland will be the only place I endulge.
Ireland...go, drink, and be merry. Cheers!

Ireland

Just got back from Ireland. What a beautiful place. 5 out of 7 days of pure sunshine was not at all what we expected (neither did the locals). With our sweaters and the luck of the Irish on our sides, we explored most of Southwest Ireland from the Burren to Kinsale. Our Ford Focus burned the roads, leaving no rock unturned, no castle unexplored, and no roadside brick wall unscathed.
From our homebase in Adare (http://www.adaremanor.com/) we explored Adare, Blarney, and Muckross Castles (bypassing the kissing of the Blarney Stone) and drove past Bunratty Castel numerous times. We traversed the wide and straight roads of the Ring of Kerry. We hiked the rugged terrain of the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren. We fished the treacherous waters of the River Maigue.
After much peer pressure, I eventually gave into the urge to drink the popular dry stout brew that made Guinness famous (in my history book). Guinness is made to be enjoyed in Ireland (and only Ireland). They send the spoils to the United States.
Shelby is going to post a full report of the trip plus some fancy web designing that she recenlty learned in class. Stay tuned.....