Advice this time to my grandson

 As you embark on your journey into adulthood, I wanted to share some wisdom that I've gathered over the years. These are skills and traits that I believe every young man should possess to navigate through life with confidence and grace.

Firstly, it's important to be physically capable. Learn to swim proficiently, handle a car breakdown, and defend yourself without resorting to violence. Knowing how to handle emergencies, from administering first aid to cooking a meal, will not only serve you well but also enable you to care for others.

Beyond physical prowess, cultivate a range of interests and abilities. Whether it's mastering a musical instrument, learning a foreign language, or understanding the basics of business and finance, strive for well-roundedness. Remember, it's not just about acquiring knowledge but also about applying it in practical situations.

In today's world, social skills are equally important. Learn to communicate effectively, whether it's addressing a crowd or making a toast at a gathering. Being able to express yourself confidently and articulately will open doors professionally and personally.

However, amidst all these skills and accomplishments, remember the importance of humility and empathy. Strive to blend in while standing out in your actions and character. Above all, never lose sight of your individuality and the pursuit of what truly brings you joy and fulfillment.

As you navigate through life, cherish the lessons you learn along the way and never stop growing. I have every confidence that you will become a self-sufficient and well-rounded individual, ready to face whatever challenges come your way.

Some more advice

 Retirement opens up a world of new challenges and opportunities for some. I have been able to keep this perspective alive for the last 18 years. Here are some things I have learned that have helped me as I move through the stages of retirement.

Highlight the joy of learning something new every day. For example, Retirement is not just about relaxing; it's about embracing the joy of continuous learning. Whether it's learning a new language, exploring a new hobby, or mastering a new skill, every day brings a new opportunity to expand your horizons.

Retirement is the perfect time to stay active and engaged. Joining clubs, volunteering, or even starting a new business venture can keep you energized and fulfilled.

Retirement is your chance to finally focus on what you love. Whether it's travelling the world, writing a book, or starting a garden, follow your passions and make every day an adventure.

Retirement isn't just about personal growth; it's also about giving back. Volunteering, mentoring, or supporting causes you believe in can give your retirement a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

In retirement, every challenge overcome is a reason to celebrate. Whether it's learning a new skill or achieving a personal goal, take pride in your accomplishments and use them as fuel for even greater adventures."

By framing retirement as a time of endless opportunities, growth, and fulfillment, you can motivate yourself to make the most out of this exciting phase of life.

 

Timely advice as we move into June

Some sage advice from my friend Gary to me, which I am delighted to share with you.

1.    The ability to speak several languages is an asset, but the ability to keep your mouth shut in any language is priceless!

2.    Be decisive. Right or wrong, decide. The road is paved with flat squirrels who couldn’t decide.

3.     When I get a headache, I take two aspirin and keep away from children just like the bottle says.

4.    Just once, I want the prompt for username and password to say, “Close enough.”

5.    Becoming an adult is the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.

6.    If you see me talking to myself, just move along. I’m self-employed. We’re having a meeting.

7.    Does anyone else have a plastic bag full of plastic bags or is it just me.

8.    I hate it when I can’t figure out how to operate the iPad and my tech support guy is asleep. He’s 5 and it’s past his bedtime.

9.    Today’s 3-year-olds can switch on laptops and open their favorite apps. When I was 3, I ate mud.

10. Tip for a successful marriage: Don’t ask your wife when dinner will be ready while she’s mowing the lawn.

11. So, you drive across town to a gym to walk on a treadmill?

12. Old age is coming at a really bad time.

13. If God wanted me to touch my toes, He would've put them on my knees.

14. Last year I joined a support group for procrastinators. We haven't met yet.

15. Why do I have to press one for English when you're just going to transfer me to someone I can't understand anyway?

16. I don't need anger management. I need people to stop irritating me.

17. My people skills are just fine. It's my tolerance for idiots that needs work.

18. "On time" is when I get there.

19. Even duct tape can't fix stupid – but it sure does muffle the sound.

20. It would be wonderful if we could put ourselves in the dryer for ten minutes, then come out wrinkle-free...and three sizes smaller.

21. "One for the road" means peeing before you leave the house!

Conatiner gardens

April Showers bring May flowers and so as we cast our minds to Spring and gardening. Some of us don’t have the room to have a big garden, but a container garden may work. Here are some tips for discovering the art of container gardening:

1.     Choose the right container: When selecting a container, consider the size, material, and shape that will work best for the plant you want to grow. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.

2.     Select the right soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is specifically designed for containers. Avoid using soil from your garden, as it can compact and prevent proper drainage.

3.     Choose the right plant: Select plants that are well-suited for container gardening. Look for plants that have a compact or dwarf growth habit and don't grow too large for the container.

4.     Water correctly: Overwatering is a common mistake in container gardening. Water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

5.     Provide proper drainage: Make sure your container has drainage holes to prevent water from collecting in the soil. You can also add a layer of small rocks or broken pottery at the bottom of the container to improve drainage.

6.     Use mulch: Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use a thin layer of organic mulch like bark chips, straw, or pine needles around the base of your plants.

7.     Fertilize: Feed your plants regularly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. You can also add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil at planting time.

8.     Prune and train: Prune your plants to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth. Train climbing plants like ivy or clematis up a trellis or obelisk.

9.     Monitor temperature and light: Check the plant tag or research the ideal temperature and light requirements for your plants. Move containers to different locations as needed to provide the right conditions.

10. Enjoy your harvest: Container gardening is a great way to grow herbs, vegetables, and fruit. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share your bounty with friends and family.

By following these tips, you can create beautiful and productive container gardens that add charm and interest to your outdoor space. Happy container gardening!