60th birthday meme

This has been a birthday for the record books!  All day, students and colleagues showered me with birthday wishes, and after school, I have been fielding texts and messages from friends and family.  Every class coordinated to bring in treats (and were conscientious that it wasn't all sweets or junk).  The handmade gifts and cards make me feel appreciated and seen.  

💎 The 60th Birthday Meme: Wisdom and New Horizons

Reflecting on the Journey (The First 60)

1.  What is the proudest moment or greatest achievement of your life so far? having former and current students tell other people (who eventually tell me) that I'm their favorite teacher

2.  What is the most valuable piece of wisdom you've gained over the past six decades? "This too shall pass."

3.  Who is one person who profoundly changed your life  (and how)? 

4.  What is the  most memorable vacation or adventure  you've ever taken? most memorable adventure was my college abroad in Cork, Ireland. It was a life-changing experience, and I cherish the memories and friendships

5.  If you could go back to any decade of your life just for one day, which one would it be and why? I would go back to my first decade to spend time with my mother

Lessons and Legacy

6.  What is one lesson you wish you learned earlier in life? oh, this is a toughie--just one??  I'll go with the gem "accept people for who they are and not who you want them to be"

7.  What's the best compliment you've ever received? my sisters each call me their best friend

8.  What is your favorite memory involving your family or closest friends? when my family was gathered to celebrate Dad's 80th birthday, we got to fiddling around with Snapchat filters and made some absolutely hilarious videos, especially of Dad, and we all laughed so hard it hurt

9.  If you could pass on one piece of advice to the next generation, what would it be? it's okay to not know everything--but it's not okay to not learn

10. Which historical event that you witnessed stands out most vividly in your memory? the Challenger explosion--I remember specifically where I was when I heard about it and immediately started planning a community memorial ceremony that linked the university with the nearby military base; it was my first attempt at community building and organizing an event

Looking Ahead (The Next Chapter)

11. What is a new hobby, skill, or passion you're excited to pursue in retirement or this next stage of life? I'm hoping and planning to volunteer or work at the public library, and I just can't wait!

12. What is one big adventure you still dream of having? my financial planner and I are including three big trips in my future (and I mean first class-ish)

13. What are you most excited to spend your time doing in this next decade? not working

14. What does "happiness" mean to you at this point in your life? having good health, good sleep, and dear friends

15. If you could have a theme song for your 60s, what would it be? Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now"

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