50 things to try after turning 50

    After the party has subsided, and the cake is digested, a person is left to one’s own thoughts of turning another year older.
    After living for half of a century, it makes sense for a person to look back on their life accomplishments and adventures, or lack thereof.
    However, whatever route memory lane takes a person down, there is still much in the world to experience! With 195 countries in the world and each one having at last 50, if not more, different ethnic groups and cultures, there is an array of places, food and activities one can do.
    What about finances, one might ask? That is a good question, especially with retirement in the near future. However, with a little bit of research, traveling and picking up a new hobby might not be as expensive as one would think.
    Here is a list of various activities a person can do either in their hometown or with a little bit of money and time.

    1. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or food pantry.
    2. Learn a new language — or two. There are many free language apps and websites available to the public.
    3. Learn how to efficiently navigate a desired type of technology. One could take a college class or even ask a younger neighbor or friend.
    4. Take a train along the entire West Coast. Some tickets can be purchase for less than $100.
    5. Try out for a musical or play production.
    6. Try some new foreign food you have always been too scared to try.
    7. Go on that vacation you have always dreamed of — perfect time to use any vacation time you have acquired but never used over the years.
    8. Take a gourmet cooking class. There are many classes offered through local community colleges and even some wineries or community group.
    9. Go on a cruise, some of which can be purchased for $300 to $500 depending on the longevity and location.
    10. Visit an art museum, and paint your own copy of a famous painting.
    11. Volunteer at local schools.
    12. Do in-depth research on your family tree. Wi-Fi and even computers are available at public libraries.

The full article was published in the "Have the Time of Your Life" special section. Click here to read it online for FREE.