Written by webtechs

45 Retirement Bucket List Ideas

Retirement Bucket List Ideas

As retirement nears, it might be the perfect time to begin putting together some bucket list ideas. We suggest starting with four categories: travel, adventure, food and legacy.

Travel Bucket List Ideas

Travel is always prioritized by retirees, but where should you start? Think of all the things you’d like to do in the U.S. then go from there. Many retirees choose to purchase an RV and embark on the road trip of a lifetime. Try some of these travel ideas!

❒ Take a cruise to Alaska.

❒ Visit each of the seven wonders of the world.

❒ See the northern lights.

❒ Take a European cruise.

❒ Go on a safari in Africa.

❒ See the Grand Canyon.

❒ Go to Niagara Falls.

❒ Visit every national park.

❒ Visit Machu Pichu.

❒ Buy an RV and take a road trip throughout the U.S.

❒ Visit every one of the 50 states.

❒ Visit your ancestors’ country.

❒ Ride the London Eye.

❒ Revisit the place you took your honeymoon.

❒ Check out the cherry blossoms in Japan.

❒ Spend a night on the Las Vegas strip.

Bucket List Adventure Ideas

Adventure and travel can be combined into one if you choose to add excursions. Always look into excursion possibilities while traveling. What experience could take the trip to the next level? You could climb a mountain or ride in a hot air balloon. Use these suggestions below!

❒ Run a marathon.

❒ Get a tattoo.

❒ Try white water rafting.

❒ Go horseback riding along the beach.

❒ Ride in a hot air balloon.

❒ Climb a mountain.

❒ Do a polar bear plunge.

❒ Take an unplanned plane trip.

❒ Swim with the dolphins.

❒ Take a helicopter ride.

Bucket List Food Ideas

Food is a huge part of life! Make retirement no exception to that as you plan some of your most memorable meals. Always make it a point to try local cuisine wherever you go.

❒ Eat some New York City pizza while in the big apple.

❒ Eat tapas in Barcelona.

❒ Brew your own beer.

❒ Try sushi in Japan.

❒ Tour a vineyard right in the French countryside.

❒ Cook your catch after a fishing trip.

❒ Make your own wine by stomping grapes.

❒ Eat the hottest pepper you can handle.

❒ Extract honey from a beehive.

Legacy Bucket List Ideas

The last section of a retiree’s bucket list should include ideas related to legacy. What do you want to leave behind for your friends and family? Many retirees try to dedicate some time to write down memories from throughout their lifetime. You could either put together some journal entries, start an online blog or write an entire book. Here are a few great legacy ideas below.

❒ Make a family tree.

❒ Write a book.

❒ Start a blog.

❒ Update your will(s).

❒ Create a cookbook of family recipes.

❒ Renew your wedding vows.

❒ Host a yearly family reunion.

❒ Create a scrapbook of memories.

❒ Document your bucket list with a video.

❒ Start new family traditions.

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

Chaparral Winds Offers Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is a retirement community located in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility contact SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-471-5086.

Retirement gifts for women
Written by webtechs

10 Best Retirement Gifts For Women

Retirement can be a great time in a woman’s life. She now has the free time to do whatever she wants after decades of hard work. Reward the retiree in your life with some of the best gifts for her on the market. The below list is just 10 retirement gifts for women. There are many, many more!

1. Retired T-shirt

Retired T-shirts make wonderful retirement gifts for women. During their work period, our women did a superb job. And the moment has come for them to return to their affectionate families and grandchildren.

2. Red Wine Basket

It’s the perfect retirement gift for a woman and her workplace farewell party. Everything is going to become sweeter and more brilliant with the addition of a red wine basket.

3. Retirement Coffee Mug

The best thing when women retire is that they don’t have to rush to work in the morning. So, they can wake up late and enjoy a delicious cup of gourmet coffee. And you can make her retirement mornings even more unforgettable by giving her this funny coffee mug that says “Quitter! Oops, I mean happy retirement. Congratulations on escaping.”

4. Retirement Bucket List Journal

Journaling can help her develop a greater sense of self-worth and self-esteem. It can also help her be more existent and in control of her emotions. But this simple gift becomes a lot more fun for grandma or Moms for their new chapter. Its objective is to find ways to laugh at the funny and strange things that happen each day. And she can write them into her journaling and read them again after she retires.

6. DayClock

When she’s retired, she’s not going to care what time it is. What day of the week it is one of the more important things to keep in mind. At this stage, a day clock is going to be useful. When you get one of these for her, it is going to go with any décor and give her something to laugh about each day.

7. Retirement Rule Canvas Print

When you’re searching for a simple gift for her that is going to brighten up any room, this type of painting is a perfect gift. Put it in the cart, and it will make it the best retirement gift for any women they’ve ever seen. Giving her new phase of life with an enjoyable time with funny rules.

8. Golf Balls for Retirement

Who doesn’t want to retire playing golf? Why not offer her exceptional customized golf balls as a unique retirement gift?

9. Happy Retirement Wine Glass

A charming wine glass is an essential item for every retired woman who enjoys having a glass of wine, every now and then. Wine glasses are imprinted with the words “I can ‘wine’ all I want I’m retired”, “Happy Retirement”, “Retired 2022, Not My Problem Anymore”, and the like, making it a unique gift she will relish for years.

10. Spa Collection Basket

This is undoubtedly one of the finest and most lavish retirement gifts for women ever. There is not a better retirement gift basket for a woman than babying, relaxing, and treating herself. Pick her favorites and collect them to make an ideal spa gift basket.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

Best Retirement Gifts
Written by webtechs

Retirement Gifts For Men

From golf clubs to a custom cocktail set, these are 15 of the top retirement gifts for men.

15 Best Retirement Gifts For Men

Retirement can be a great time in a man’s life. He now has the free time to do whatever he wants after decades of hard work. Reward the retiree in your life with some of the best gifts on the market.

1. Gold Pocket Watch

The gold pocket watch remains the gold standard for retirement gifts. Of course, this sort of gift should go to someone extremely special. Perhaps it’s a boss who gave you the opportunity of a lifetime or a best friend who made the workday fly by. Gold pocket watches can be expensive, but the good news is there are so many options on the market today. You will be able to find a watch that fits your budget.

Watch

2. Tablet

It’s no secret the retiree will have some extra free time. There’s no better way to occupy said free time than with the help of a new tablet. The retiree can surf the web, check social media and keep up with all their favorites shows on one device. You can also Skype with family members on the tablet.

Tablet

3. Acoustic Guitar

Retirement offers ample time to start up new hobbies or jump back into old ones that never came to fruition. An acoustic guitar can offer the best of both worlds for many busy executives looking to stay productive in retirement. Learning to play the guitar is a perfect hobby later on in life.

Acoustic Guitar

4. Personalized Grilling Tool

Show your beloved grill master how much fun retirement can be with a personalized stainless steel spatula. You can custom order each spatula with the phrase you’d like to appear on it. You can even go above and beyond by putting the date of the retirement on the spatula.

Grilling Tool

5. Exercise Bike

Health and wellness are key as one moves on in life. When someone retirees, they are often presented with bottles of booze, chocolate and plenty of other goodies. Make your gift stand out by balancing out all those sugars and sweets. An exercise bike can help keep your co-worker happy and healthy for the rewarding journey to come!

Exercise Bike

6. Whiskey

Sometimes the simplest gift idea can be the best idea. If you are racking your brain but can’t come up with a good retirement gift, it’s time to opt for a classic. Retirement is a time to celebrate and reflect, providing many perfect moments for a glass of top-shelf whiskey. The retiree will be sure to enjoy each smooth sip while reflecting on a great career.

Whiskey

7. Custom Cocktail Set

Don’t be afraid to put a spin on this classic gift. Get the retiree a unique cocktail smoker kit. This kit lets him infuse his favorite drinks. Using the smoke, things like thyme or cedar can infuse their smoke into the drink. This is a tasting experience unlike any before!

Cocktail Set

8. Set Of Golf Clubs

How about wrapping health, wellness and hobbies all into one package? Buying that special someone a brand new set of golf clubs will encourage them to hit the links consistently. Golfing on a regular basis will act as a workout, develop skills and invite social interaction at the same time. It’s no wonder why golf is often a retirees’ hobby of choice!

Golf Clubs

9. Golf Trunk Organizer

If the retiree plans to hit the links often, it may be a good idea to invest in a trunk organizer. A golf trunk organizer will provide a neat way to keep your golf balls, shoes, hats and other various necessities on the course in one place.

Golf Trunk Organizer

10. Champagne Bucket

Nothing says sit back and relax quite like a classy champagne bucket. Retirement offers plenty of time to enjoy a glass of wine or champagne as the day winds down. The best thing about most champagne buckets one can buy is the option to personalize the gift by writing a message that can be displayed on the outside of the bucket.

Champagne

11. Engraved Trophy

Finishing out a rewarding professional career is quite an accomplishment. Make sure this achievement doesn’t go unnoticed! An engraved trophy featuring the dates one started a career or tenure at the company can offer a lighthearted and comical moment at the retirement party.

Trophy

12. Personalized Coffee Mug

Yes, your boss or co-worker may have had a personalized coffee mug throughout their career, but this mug will take on a whole new meaning. Mark the beginning of a new journey with a personalized coffee mug for the recent retiree. Personalize the mug with a signature retirement saying or maybe one of his/her favorite catchphrases. Either way, this gift will be a hit!

Coffee Mug

13. Memory Books

Think of how many memories, professional and personal, the new retiree must have stored in the memory bank. Retirement offers the perfect time to reflect and be thankful all the gifts the past has brought. A memory book full of souvenirs or photos can be an outstanding gift for a boss, co-worker or friend moving on to the next chapter in life.

Memory Book

14. Passport Wallet

Retirement is the time to explore and travel. Yet, all travelers know keeping necessary documents together can be a tedious task. A passport wallet is a unique way to keep all your cash, passports and other important documents in the same place all the time.

Passport

15. Bucket List Journal

You are truly never too old to live out a few more dreams. A journal is a great retirement gift. The retiree can use this journal to list goals and dreams for the future, as well as present day.

Bucket List Journal

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

Written by Brian B

15 Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

If you are looking for low stress jobs after retirement, check out our list of the 15 best opportunities!

Best Jobs After Retirement

What are you looking for in a job after retirement? Perhaps it’s flexible hours, ability to make your own schedule or work from home. These 15 jobs below can fall into all of those categories. Check out some of our picks for best jobs after retirement below.

1. Focus Group Participant

This is a highly popular task for retirees to take part in. You should consider taking part in a focus group if you want to give your opinion, yet keep the stress to a minimum. Paid focus groups are usually held at conference centers or local hotels, featuring small groups of people discussing new products or services. Online focus groups are very popular as well.

Benefits Of Being A Focus Group Participant:

  • Give your opinion.
  • Try new things.
  • Short hours.

2. Writer/Editor

Any sort of prior writing experience could work for retirees looking for a low-stress position. Today, the majority of these positions can be performed from home. Individuals with prior experience could even find this to be quite a profitable venture. Anyone looking for experience should check online for open blogging positions.

Benefits Of Writing/Editing:

  • Flexible schedule.
  • Work from home.
  • Make professional connections.

3. Career Coach

Younger workers are constantly seeking professional advice. Consider the idea of becoming a career coach and passing down your knowledge and experience to the next generation. If you’ve seen and done it all during your working days, now is the time to prove it! Online video platforms, such as Zoom and Skype, make this a perfect at-home job.

Benefits Of Being A Career Coach:

  • Form new relations.
  • Work remotely.
  • Pass on knowledge.

4. Paid Surveys

This is nearly the same thing as participating in a focus group, but the beauty of filling out surveys is you can do it from the comfort of your own home. There are many companies out there looking for feedback. You can give your opinions on many different websites and get paid instantly.

Benefits Of Paid Surveys:

  • Create your own schedule.
  • Work from home.
  • Give opinions.

5. Musician

Perhaps you gave up playing an instrument while you focused on your career and family. Well, now is the time to brush the dust off the guitar or piano and start playing again. Check online or in the newspaper to see if there are any music opportunities in your area.

Benefits Of Being A Musician:

  • Play live gigs.
  • Do something you love.
  • Form new bonds. 

Senior Musician

6. Tour Guide

This is another popular position for retirees. Being a tour guide is a great job because most of the working hours are only during the weekend and most guides have an intimate knowledge of the local area. Enjoy showing off your hometown and interacting with tourists each and every day.

Benefits Of Being A Tour Guide:

  • Social interactions.
  • Pass on knowledge.
  • Flexible schedule.

7. Virtual Assistant

This job may be perfect for anyone that worked as an assistant or secretary during their career. Virtual assistants are becoming more in-demand now due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Virtual assistants can offer technical and administrative support to valued clients. A virtual assistant can make anywhere from $35-$100 per hour, according to LogicalDollar.

Benefits Of Being A Virtual Assistant:

  • Good pay.
  • Work from home.
  • Interactions with clients.

8. Interior Designer

Do your friends and family often ask for your opinion on designs and layouts? Well, how about making a few dollars doing that same thing, professionally? Look into interior design positions, either remotely or at an office.

Benefits Of Being An Interior Designer:

  • Work remotely.
  • Make connections.
  • Set your pay rate(s).

9. Voiceover Artist

Turn your natural gift into a profit! If you have a strong voice, it’ll be hard to find an easier job than being a freelance voiceover artist. Especially if you are looking for flexible hours, becoming a voiceover artist is perfect for retirees. You may be able to work with television and radio companies in this gig. The good news is you need no formal training ahead of time.

Benefits Of Being A Voiceover Artist:

  • Flexible hours.
  • Work from home.
  • No training necessary.

10. Photographer

Photography is a terrific hobby for retirees with a creative passion. You can start this venture by booking smaller gigs, then working your way up. It may not be long until you find yourself in charge of a large corporate event or wedding.

Benefits Of Being A Photographer:

  • Travel to new places.
  • Creative control.
  • Set your own schedule. 

Photographer

11. Hairdresser

If hair dressing is a hobby of yours, it could be easy to turn this into a small business. Anyone with experience can start this work right from home. Combining your hobby with meeting new people can be very rewarding for retirees.

Benefits Of Being A Hairdresser:

  • Work from home.
  • Set your own rate(s).
  • Meet new people.

12. Customer Service

Especially during the pandemic, a lot of customer service representative jobs shifted to remote work. If working from home is your desire, this may be the perfect opportunity for you. Customer services representative must be willing to engage in phone calls, emails and/or chats.

Benefits Of Being A Customer Service Representative:

  • Work from home.
  • Consistent work.
  • Social interactions.

13. Rideshare Driver

Download the Uber app on your smart phone if you wish to make some money picking up either people or goods. Retired couples may love driving for Uber Eats or Grubhub since both parties can ride in the car while delivering food. With Uber, you have the flexibility to make your own schedule. You will only work when you want to, and when you are ready you will simply log into the app.

Benefits Of Being A Rideshare Driver:

  • Choose your schedule.
  • Social interaction.
  • Good pay.

14. Charity Work

If you’re looking to stay busy without the desire for a paycheck, charity work is the way to go. Typically, charity workers will focus their efforts on a local issue. With this work, you’ll be able to meet others with common interests and make a difference in your community. Thankfully, there are plenty of charity/volunteer opportunities out there. You will most likely be able to set your own schedule and pick up shifts at any time.

Benefits Of Charity Work:

  • Socializing.
  • Work in the community.
  • Contribute to something you are passionate about.

15. Pet Sitter

There is nothing better to do in retirement for the animal lover than enjoying some extra time with furry friends. Whether it’s dogs, cats or birds, you will be able to care for someone’s best friend while they are on a trip. You can either walk the animals, or care for them overnight in the comfort of your own home.

Benefits Of Being A Pet Sitter:

  • Work with animals.
  • Work from home.
  • Make your own schedule.

Pet Sitter

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

65 Getting Older Quotes

Getting Older Quotes

As golf legend Lee Trevino once said, “The older I get, the better I used to be.” Let’s take a look at some of the best quotes about getting older.

Quotes About Getting Older

1. “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” – George Burns

2. “I don’t mind getting older. I’m enjoying not having that raging ambition I’ve had all my life.” – Jeremy Irons

3. “I actually think there’s an incredible amount of self-knowledge that comes with getting older.” – Jamie Lee Curtis

4. “I like getting older. When you’re in your twenties you’re really forgoing for your future. Things take shape later on.” – Crispin Glover

5. “One of the pulses of getting older is you set some limits.” – Nicolas Cage

6. “As I started getting older, I realized ‘I’m so happy!’ I didn’t expect this! I wasn’t happy when I was young.” – Jane Fonda

7. “The dreadful thing about getting older is you cry at the drop of a hat.” – Eric Idle

8. “I’m getting older. That’s realistic. I can’t reverse time. I can slow it down a little bit.” – Jordan Burroughs

9. “If you’re always battling against getting older, you’re always going to be unhappy, because it’s going to happen anyhow.” – Mitch Albom

10. “One of the positives of getting older is that you forget your age. Then you find out that you’re younger than you thought you were.” – Michael McIntyre

11. “As I’m getting older, I’m enjoying my vices so much more because I feel like I’ve deserved them.” – Brooke Shields

12. “You can’t do an awful lot about getting older but you shouldn’t let it stop you from doing what you want to do.” – Vera Lynn

13. “I don’t want to put a pause on the rest of my life; I’m really enjoying getting older and the wisdom that comes from that.” – Rosemarie DeWitt

14. “I’m just getting older and better.” – Neal Schon

15. “I highly recommend getting older! There’s less tendency to people-please.” – Alanis Morissette

16. “I’m getting older but better too. And the roles are getting better.” – John Lithgow

17. “Getting older is a fact of life.” – Goldie Hawn

18. “Getting older is fine. There is nothing you can do to stop it so you might as well stay on the bus.” – John Byrne

19. “If you’re not getting older, you’re dead.” – Tom Petty

20. “That’s another great thing about getting older. Your life is written on your face.” – Frances McDormand

21. “We don’t like to acknowledge that we’re getting older. None of us do.” – Bob McNair

22. “I don’t really have a choice. I’m getting older.” – Annette Bening

23. “As I’m getting older, I’m really learning unconditional love and loyalty are extremely important.” – Bindi Irwin

24. “The biggest lie about getting older is that excitement and growth end with youth.” – MO

25. “Getting older is no problem. You just have to live long enough.” – Groucho Marx

26. “You can’t stop getting older; you just have to keep going and laugh a lot.” -Anita Dobson

27. “The great thing about getting older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been.” – Madeleine L’Engle

28. “You know you’re getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.” – Bob Hope

29. “A birth date is a reminder to celebrate the life as well as to update the life.” – Amit Kalantri

30. “After 30, a body has a mind of its own.” – Bette Midler

Aging

31. “Please don’t retouch my wrinkles. It took me so long to earn them.” – Anna Magnani

32. “Middle age is when you’re sitting at home on a Saturday night and the telephone rings and you hope it isn’t for you.” – Ogden Nash

33. “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.” – William Shakespeare

34. “As you get older, three things happen: The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.” – Norman Wisdom

35. “Old age is like a plane flying through a storm. Once you are aboard, there is nothing you can do about it.” – Golda Meir

36. “Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese.” – Luis Bunuel

37. “I’m very pleased to be here. Let’s face it, at my age I’m very pleased to be anywhere.” – George Burns

38. “The really frightening thing about middle age is that you know you’ll grow out of it.” – Doris Day

39. “I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.” – Bob Hope

40. “I have reached an age when, if someone tells me to wear socks, I don’t have to.” – Albert Einstein

41. “Aging seems to be the only available way to live a long life.” – Kitty O’Neill Collins

42. “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.” – Robert Browning

43. “I keep trying to find my answer to life – and it gets more elusive the older I get.” – Kim Gruenenfelder

44. “Old age is an excellent time for outrage. My goal is to say or do at least one outrageous thing every week.” – Louis Kronenberger

45. “You don’t stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing.” – George Bernard Shaw

46. “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been, and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

47. “I don’t plan to grow old gracefully. I plan to have face-lifts until my ears meet.” – Rita Rudner

48. “Every year should teach you something valuable; whether you get the lesson is up to you.” – Oprah Winfrey

49. “Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

50. “My face carries all of my memories. Why would I erase them?” – Diane Von Furstenberg

51. “Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art.” – Stanislaw Jerzy Lec.

52. “As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say. I just watch what they do.” – Andrew Carnegie

53. “Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” – Mark Twain

54. “The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.” – Frank Lloyd Wright

55. “Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” – Franz Kafka

56. “Age is not how old you are but how many years of fun you’ve had.” – Matt Maldre

57. “Old age is not so bad when you consider the alternative.” – Maurice Chevalier

58. “Life’s tragedy is that we get too old soon and wise too late.” – Benjamin Franklin

59. “I don’t let my age define me but the side-effects are getting harder to ignore.” – Unknown

60. “No one is as old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.” – Henry David Thoreau

61. “There is still no cure for the common birthday.” – John Glenn

62. “By the time you’re 80 years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it.” – George Burns

63. “Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.” – Theodore Roosevelt

64. “You are only young once, but you can stay immature indefinitely.” – Ogden Nash

65. “Old age is always fifteen years older than I am.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

More Quotes:

Getting Older Quotes

Quotes About Aging

Aging Quotes

Funny Quotes

Motivational Quotes

Retirement Quotes

Aging Gracefully

Healthy Quotes

Aging Jokes

Getting Older Quotes

Retirement Jokes

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Retirement Party Ideas

Best Retirement Party Ideas

We’re here to provide some of the best ideas for a retirement party!

Best Retirement Party Ideas

Are you in charge of planning an upcoming retirement party? Use these five ideas as a beginner’s guide to retirement parties.

  • Decide On A Party Theme
  • Play Some Party Games
  • Invite Friends And Family
  • Put Together A Fun Music Playlist
  • End With Speeches

Decide On A Party Theme

Retirement parties are the ideal time to look back on reflect on one’s life and career. Picking a unique theme to give the party a truly nostalgic feel is a very popular idea. Perhaps you want to take the retiree back to the 1970’s when their job at the company began! Have party attendees dress up in clothes from the appropriate time period. Gather with co-workers to determine the best possible theme for the evening.

Play Some Party Games

What’s a party without a few games? Playing some games is a must at any retirement gathering. A trivia challenge could be a good idea during the party. Get creative about the retiree’s career by asking a few questions about tasks/co-workers over the years. Or you can have the retiree come up with all the questions to ask co-workers. Either way, trivia time will undoubtedly become a highlight of the night.

Invite Friends And Family

If you are looking for a way to make the party even more memorable, take it upon yourself to reach out to loved ones of the retiree. Inviting friends and family without the retiree’s knowledge can make the night even bigger and better. A great workplace can feel like a family, so it’s time to combine work family and real family in one setting. Encourage friends/family to say a few words, as well.

Put Together A Fun Music Playlist

Without a doubt, every party could use some fun music. Set the tone of the evening not only by picking a theme, but a fun playlist, as well. You can pick between some of the retiree’s favorite songs or simply some appropriate tunes for a retirement party.

These songs work well for a retirement party:

  • “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John
  • “The Best Is Yet To Come” – Frank Sinatra
  • “Good Riddance” – Green Day
  • “When I’m Sixty Four” – Beatles
  • “Hit The Road Jack” – Ray Charles

End With Speeches

It’s been proven over years that the best way to end the evening is with speeches. Let as many friends, family members and co-workers speak as possible. Encourage any speakers to practice their speeches beforehand. And, at the very end, see if the man or woman of honor has a few words to share.

More Retirement Party Ideas

Looking for even more ideas? Try a few of these:

  • Exchange contact information at the end of the night.
  • Host the party at the retiree’s favorite spot.
  • Have a roast.
  • Create a unique party invitation. 
  • Give gifts.
  • Raise money for the retiree’s choice of charity.
  • Set up a drink station.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

12 New Things To Do When Retired And Bored

Things To Do When Retired And Bored

Are you looking for some new and exciting things to do now that you have officially retired? We’re here to help with 12 great ideas for recent retirees.

1. Travel

Now is the time to finally go on all those trips you dreamt about. Have you traveled overseas yet? Or, have you always wanted to take a road trip across the U.S.? Regardless of your desires, make now the time for new adventures. Traveling is all about experiencing new places and making connections. Make a list of all the places you want to see during retirement and make it happen!

2. Volunteer

Volunteering can be such a rewarding experience for retirees and others. Spend your time giving back, and impacting other lives along the way. There are many resources available to check for volunteer opportunities. You can go through local charities and/or church groups to learn when any opportunities may come up.

3. Find A New Hobby

Too many hobbies or activities are put on the back burner during your busy working days. Now that you have time, pick up a new hobby. But, what kind of hobby interests you at this point? Make a list of useful household hobbies or even things you want to re-visit from your younger years. After the list is complete, prioritize a few activities and figure out which one(s) you would like to tackle.

4. Learn An Instrument

Was this one thing you wish you would’ve done as a kid? Well, it truly is never too late to learn a new instrument. Learning new things is so important, no matter what stage of life you are in. Keep your inner child alive by taking the time to learn a musical instrument. If you were too busy during your career to invest time in this hobby, now is your chance to learn and play.

5. Exercise

One of the best gifts you can get yourself is mental and physical health. Regular exercise is more and more beneficial as we age. It can dramatically improve both mental and physical health over time. Choose some sort of physical fitness that interests you. Going on long walks in the morning or joining a yoga class are two popular options.

6. Mentor

Your lifetime of experiences is invaluable. Pass on those experiences/lessons to the younger generation by becoming a mentor. You can either choose to become a life or career coach when taking this route. If desired, it is possible to get internationally certified as a coach before you seek clients.

Mentor

7. Get A Part-Time Job

When you first start off in retirement, working may be the furthest thing from your mind. But, over time, you may start to miss the structure and mental engagement. Stay away from a full-time job, though, and find a part-time gig that excites you. There are many great jobs for seniors to choose from. A stay-at-home job is easy to find, especially today. Consider data analysis, customer service positions or even writing opportunities.

8. Read

Just like exercise, everyone wishes they had more time to just relax and read back in the day. Now, since you are relaxed and have time, crack open a good book or two. Re-read some of your favorites or search online for some of the top novels ever penned.

9. Charity Work

You can either sign up to be on a board, attend events, fundraise or just offer to give input. Volunteering is all about getting involved with something near and dear to your heart. Search around your community or your alma mater for opportunities that may be perfect for you.

10. Start A Blog

The older you get, the wiser you become. Do the younger generation a service by sharing your wisdom! Share your favorite experiences, recipes and even work/real-life adventures with a mass audience. Starting a blog is very simple, and it is a great way to communicate with friends and loved ones.

11. Socialize More

Socializing nowadays means more than just connecting with old friends or co-workers online. Many retirees can unfortunately lose contact with friends over time. Re-connecting with old friends is a great way to spend days. For a lot of retirees, their social circle was based directly on their workplace. Don’t lose that sense of comradery once you retire. Find ways to connect with new and old friends.

12. Create A Bucket List

It’s never too late to create a bucket list! Your list is a blank canvas, so you can jot down anything. Feel free to ask loved ones or friends for some refreshing ideas and inspiration. From travel to hobbies, make a list of everything you want to do in the coming years.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

How To Retire At 50

How To Retire At 50

If you are looking for an in-depth plan for retirement by age 50, we’re here to help!

5 Steps To Retirement

Follow these steps when you have decided to retire by age 50:

  • Decide To Retire Early
  • Start Saving Money
  • Adjust Your Lifestyle
  • Make Smart Investments
  • Have Contingency Plans

1. Decide To Retire Early

The biggest key towards early retirement is actually deciding on retirement early! In order to retire by age 50, you’ll need to settle on that number years in advance to make sure that goal becomes reality. Give yourself the best chance possible at an early retirement by deciding on it when your 25, rather than 45.

This, of course, seems like common sense, but it is very hard to set this goal while busy climbing the corporate ladder and/or raising a family. Life will certainly get in the way at times, but stay focused on your early retirement goal throughout your career. Financial experts suggest picking up a part-time job or starting a side business to maximize your retirement savings. Asking for a raise or extra hours at your current job could be a good plan, as well. Always resist the urge to live above your means!

2. Start Saving Money

Saving money right now is easier said than done, correct? Well, maybe saving a bit of money is easier than you once thought. Experts tell you to use the four-percent rule for guidance. This rule says that your savings should last 30 years as long as you withdraw four percent of your savings during the first year of your retirement.

If you plan to live off $250,000 for the next 30 years, then you should try to have at least $750,000 in the bank. To estimate how much you’ll need to save, determine how much money you can live off of during retirement.

Retirement Money

3. Adjust Your Lifestyle

Adjusting your lifestyle prior to early retirement does not mean you’ll have to take drastic measure, fortunately. Yet, if you do plan to retire by age 50, then normal methods of saving money will not apply to your situation. Re-evaluate your current savings, spending habits and investment options.

Try to rid yourself of any unnecessary expenses. Generally, this consists of eating out frequently, attending expensive events and going on vacations. The next step to take is paying off any loans or debts as soon as possible.

4. Make Smart Investments

According to the experts, the younger you are, the more room you have for financial risks. Most believe that even if the market crashes while you are in your 20s, you can still regain enough wealth to live a happy and healthy life, financially.

For those planning on retiring early, though, risky investments may not be the way to go. Take a conservative approach to the market, instead. Make sure to diversify and factor in Social Security benefits when creating a retirement budget.

5. Have Contingency Plans

Retiring early will undoubtedly leave several questions to ponder, including:

  • Should I take social security benefits early or wait until I am retirement age?
  • How many income streams will I have after retirement?
  • Should I work part-time?
  • Is my life insurance plan good enough if something happens to me?
  • Can I afford long-term care, if necessary?

Try to have answers ready for all of the questions before your retirement begins. It’s important to have a comprehensive plan for your family’s future.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Can I Retire At 60 With 500K

Can I Retire At 60 With 500K

If you are searching for “can i retire at 60 with 500k”, the good news is you certainly can! Use this article as your guide on how to properly save for a happy and healthy retirement at 60.

Can I Retire With 500K?

Most experts believe you need $1-$2 million saved to retire comfortably, but that is not necessarily true. There are many ways to work towards retirement without saving that exact amount of money. In some cases, 500K in the bank will be more than enough to live on. However, you will need to carefully and meticulously plan for retiring with 500K.

Here are three steps to follow:

  1. Save Money Right Now
  2. Budget
  3. Pick The Best Location

Step 1: Save Money Right Now

It’s common sense that the more money you save when you are younger, the more equipped you will be for an early retirement. Saving as much money as you can as early as possible is a crucial step towards the next phase in life. There are many ways you can get creative, trying to save money in your younger years. Always try to take advantage of any extra unexpected money that comes your way. This could mean any sort of work/performance bonus or even a stimulus check. Put the extra money into a 401(K) plan or an IRA. Check to see if your employer will fully match contributions made towards a retirement plan.

Step 2: Budget

Living with a strict budget will be necessary if you plan on retiring with 500K in the bank. You can obviously enjoy your current lifestyle, but keep basic living expenses like housing, utilities and healthcare on a tight budget. If you are having trouble coming up with a figure, go back and look at last year’s bills. Form a budget based off of what you spent in the previous 12 months. Find out exactly which expenses you can either cut out completely or cut back on.

Step 3: Pick The Best Location

You may love everything about where you live; the school district, the parks and your neighbors. But, financial experts say you must evaluate every aspect about your life, including your home’s location. It may be difficult, but consider the idea of relocating to a different area with lower housing rates, if this is possible. Think of this present move as the best thing for your future. No, you may not be able to live in your dream location, but if retirement at 60 is the goal, this is one sacrifice that can be made.

Chaparral Winds In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

Up to this point, your life may have been all about work and raising a family. Retirement is a chance to dedicate time to yourself. If you are searching online for “what to do after retirement” or “things to do in retirement,” then this post is for you!

Fun Things To Do In Retirement

  1. Travel
  2. Volunteer
  3. Get A Part-Time Job
  4. Purchase An RV
  5. Catch Up On Reading
  6. Start A Blog
  7. Fitness Routine
  8. Learn To Play An Instrument
  9. Spend Quality Time With Friends & Family
  10. Public Service

Travel

Retirement is the perfect time to finally take those trips you’ve always been dreaming about. Your work days are now over and the calendar is free. Whether you wish to fly to a foreign country or take a road trip throughout the United States, this is your time to adventure. A common way to travel for many retirees is to visit places they previously explored. Re-visit some of your favorite spots or check a few new places off the bucket list!

Volunteer

Volunteering can be such a rewarding experience for retirees and others. Spend your time giving back, and impacting other lives along the way. There are many resources available to check for volunteer opportunities. You can go through local charities and/or church groups to learn when any opportunities may come up.

Get A Part-Time Job

Even during retirement, it is very common for men and women of a certain age to keep some sort of part-time job. Find something you are really passionate about. Feel free to contact companies or recruiters to learn about any openings that may spark your interest. Adding some extra income and even meeting some new people are just a few great benefits of rejoining the workforce.

Purchase An RV

We mentioned traveling earlier, and there is truly no more enjoyable way to travel than in an RV. An RV is perfect for any long road trips ahead. Perhaps you want to step foot in all 50 states or visit as many national parks as possible. Regardless of the destination, you will always travel in style with an RV. This will give you the comforts of a home, where you’ll still be able to cook, clean and sleep with your own sheets and pillows at night.

Catch Up On Reading

Ease into all of your newfound free time by jumping back into some favorite hobbies. Catch up on all the classic books and novels you simply haven’t had the time for over the past few busy years. Joining a book club and meeting new people that share the same interests is another rewarding experience.

Start A Blog

The older you get, the wiser you become. Do the younger generation a service by sharing your wisdom! Share your favorite experiences, recipes and even work/real-life adventures with a mass audience. Starting a blog is very simple, and it is a great way to communicate with friends and loved ones.

Fitness Routine

One of the best gifts you can get yourself is mental and physical health. Regular exercise is more and more beneficial as we age. It can dramatically improve both mental and physical health over time. Choose some sort of physical fitness that interests you. Going on long walks in the morning or joining a yoga class are two popular options.

Learn To Play An Instrument

Once you’re finally settled into retirement, it’s common for old hobbies to reappear in one’s life. To add to that, there are usually a few hobbies that you always intended to get to, but never found the time. Learning to play an instrument or learning a new language will keep you sharp mentally, and even spark some new interests along the way.

Spend Quality Time With Friends & Family

This is generally priority number one for retirees and the elderly. Family and friends may have moved around due to jobs over the past few decades, so use this time to travel and catch up with them.

Public Service

Choosing to get involved and make a difference in the community is a great use of time. Help others and make an everlasting impact in the community by jumping into the realm of public service.

Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Check out our independent living facilities in Arizona below:

Sedona Winds

Sedona Winds is an assisted living facility in Sedona, AZ. Sedona Winds offers activities at their facilities for its residents. We provide activities that allow residents to keep a healthy lifestyle by socializing with their peers and encouraging motion. Sedona Winds beautiful Assisted Living Community offers large studio & one-bedroom apartments with ample space for our resident’s belongings.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Desert Winds

Desert Winds is an assisted living community in Peoria, AZ. Our facility is a large sized assisted living community with 88 units. Communities this size usually offer one-bedroom apartments, multiple care levels, restaurant style dining, and a robust resident development program. Desert Winds wonderful Assisted Living Community offers large studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with adequate space for our resident’s possessions.

Address: 20554 N 101st Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 362-1200

Chaparral Winds

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds is a unique assisted living located on the border of Sun City and Youngtown, AZ. Each roomy apartment comes with a walk-in closet, a patio or balcony, ample storage and a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator. Our three-story assisted living facility is built between a lovely courtyard and a crystal-clear swimming pool. Life is destined to be lived at Ventana winds.

Address: 12322 N 113th Ave, Youngtown, AZ 85363

Phone: (623) 583-2460

Canyon Winds

Canyon Winds is an attractive assisted living community in Mesa, AZ. Residents revel in upscale living with first-class care in this gorgeous two-story, 60 unit community featuring Studio, One and Two Bedroom floorplans. Our residents are provided meals, transportation, laundry services and housekeeping. They have access to the full campus and will receive additional support and care as needed.

Address: 2851 N Boulder Canyon, Mesa, AZ 85207

Phone: (480) 948-0700

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