Gloria and Cleveland Embrace Senior Programs

A New Chapter Begins

We had just retired. Now what? We knew what. Our house was on the market. We were leaving Austin to move to the Flower Mound area to be close to our daughter and family. We were all very excited. Our daughter worked at the Y. She sent information about the activities for the Senior Y members. We paid no attention because we would "blaze our trail." Little did we know that Cross Timbers YMCA would be the center of the trail we would come to blaze. 

Discovering a Gold Mine

Our move was smooth, and after we settled in, we decided to check out the Y. It was a Gold Mine. There were people our age, and activities were going on. I chose a low-impact aerobics class, a line dance, and a choreographed dance class, and I worked on the machines as did my husband. I added other courses from time to time. 

The Social Connection

That was the physical part. The social part was simply outstanding. Shelly Brennan was our Senior Coordinator. She and the staff worked to make things smooth for us. There was something special going on most months. Some of my continued favorites are Friendship Stew and Christmas luncheons, card/game day, spring/salad luncheon, prayer group, Y'Sr committee, bulletin board, the monthly newsletter, birthday recognition, and the cruises (my favorite was the Mediterranean cruise). I participated in and helped organize these activities, including working on the Y campaign. I was so honored to be chosen Volunteer of the Year in 2015. 

The Unique "Round Tables"

Another thing I like about our Y, which may be unique to our Y, is what we call the "Round tables." There are two round tables in the front area where many of us pass or stop for coffee and conversations. We talk about our kids, grandkids, life experiences, and, of course, sports. We Seniors have incredible life experiences, and we share them. 

Continuing Education

Hands down, for me, is our Book Club. We meet monthly to discuss the book we have chosen. We post the information in our newsletter and on the whiteboard. I will be leading the discussion for our November book. These discussions are what I call "Continuing Education."

What part of your retirement journey has been the most rewarding for you?