How a 70-Year-Old Can Embrace Life Full of Adventure and Purpose
Norm Young, now 74, never takes a day off when it comes to living life to the fullest. Despite retiring almost a decade ago, his days are filled with dynamic and thrilling activities that continue to excite him and provide a rich sense of purpose. From hiking and paddling to learning new skills, Norm's story is a testament to the vibrant lifestyle that awaits seniors who embrace change and adventure.
Retirement and New Pursuits
Norm, who turned 74 shortly after this article was written, found a new lease on life through the pursuit of various outdoor and adventurous activities. Since retiring, he has discovered new passions, made new friends, and even spent quality time with his numerous grandchildren. The retirement activities he engages in range from hiking and mountain biking to kiteboarding and paragliding, showcasing his enduring fitness and curiosity.
Adventures in Nature
Norm is an avid hiker, paddle surfer, mountaineer, paraglider, backcountry skier, and kiteboarder. He surfeited with a hydrofoil, thanks to a new stand-up paddle board, and plans to learn this new sport this summer. His adventures take him to places like Southern Oregon, where he enjoyed backcountry skiing, and Crescent City, where he enjoyed bike rides, often in the winter when there's no fog—the perfect weather for outdoor activities.
Making New Friends and Connecting with Community
One of the highlights of his lifestyle is the camaraderie he has built through various activities and hobbies. For instance, he participates in a men's choir, bringing joy and fulfillment to his life. Furthermore, he is deeply connected to the local community through volunteer work, such as helping new immigrants in Israel learn the language. These activities, combined with his love for outdoor activities, have enriched Norm's life and provided a sense of belonging.
Learning and Growing with the Younger Generation
Norm cherishes the time spent with his grandchildren, including his "partner in crime," a 10-year-old grandson. Together, they try out new restaurants, engage in word puzzles, and even learn to swim with snorkel masks and fins. This intergenerational bonding is a significant aspect of his life, offering both excitement and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Restoring and Reflecting
Every so often, Norm's schedule also allows for rest and reflection. He recently recovered from a bout with covid, which caused a slowdown in his activities. However, he remains committed to enjoying life as much as possible. His advice to others is to be open to new experiences and people, to find new and old things that you enjoy, and to relax and enjoy life.
Norm's story is an inspiring reminder that life can be full of adventure and purpose at any age. By embracing new activities, fostering community connections, and cherishing relationships with family, seniors can continue to lead fulfilling and vibrant lives.