The JULIETS share their advice for seniors
There are two groups in suburbia that are a bit unique. One group, the "ROMEOS" ("Retired Old Men Eating Out") has been around for a while, but there is now the newer group, the "JULIETS" ("Just Us Ladies into Enjoying the Show").
Have you noticed the pews at church filled with just women? The same at plays, concerts and meetings? We are the JULIETS and there are lots of them.
Those that live in the Glen Ellyn-Wheaton area can find them at the local Glen Art Theatre for the early $5 movie every Friday afternoon. They often take up two rows at the Glen and the films can range from Disney to the recent risqué French film, "Colette."
Later, they head to one of the area's many local restaurants for food and fellowship. There may be a walker, a cane or an arm accompanying us, but they are all in high spirits and you will hear someone laughing. No doubt probably 91-year-ld Marilyn!
Sometimes they skip the show and just go for a meal if the movie fare is a poor choice. They order meals, usually take home half, with drinks, mostly wine, but they have one member, a bottom-of-the-shelf bourbon drinker with a cherry. You guessed it, Marilyn.
Just recently they were having such a raucous evening, another customer paid for their drinks.
This group stays active every day of the week. Eight or nine of them just finished a lifelong learning class at the College of DuPage, the very timely "History of the Supreme Court."
A year or so ago, they studied "Hamilton," also very timely. Some of them are active in art classes and art lectures. Grandma Moses didn't start early on her career.
Others have taken creative writing and bridge classes. All of them play bridge once or twice a week. One of the groups plays every Tuesday afternoon. Very light snacks and sometimes (usually) they don't keep score.
Books are read and exchanged at almost every gathering. Most of them exercise regularly or lead very active lives. One of the members is taking a pilates class. She is 92!
Several members still drive long distances. They have clubs and churches they support and take leadership roles. They go to concerts and plays regularly.
Planning a get-together is hard because they are all busy. Some of them have regular breakfast groups which meet every week. One group has met for almost 30 years!
Most of the members live independently in their own homes and still entertain in them. Some have pets. Oh yes, they are mostly over 85, with three in the 90s.
What keeps them going? Here is a partial list: laughter, friendship, faith, caring, gratitude, appreciation, blessings, community, and family (no poor me's allowed). "Thank you" is said often, and I'll say it again "joy and laughter."