From the Archives: I Started the Year After I Became a Widow
“I started in 1987, a year after I became a widow. Elderhostel has been a wonderful part of my life. I have had so many great experiences, learned so much, made such true friends.
At a program in the U.K., I met a kindred soul from London. He and I have traveled to many programs together since then. In Hawaii, we became friends with a couple from Cincinnati, with whom we have been to six Elderhostel programs. My sister, Evelyn, and dear friend, Merlyn, have traveled with us, too, as well as David’s friends from England. For our Québec City program, I planned a party of seven.
I have visited every state except Montana and North Dakota, which I hope to visit, too. I have also taken Elderhostel programs in France and Oaxaca, Mexico.
Now I am 90 years old and in good health, except for dependence on canes or a walker. I am still planning to go to more programs, and I am planning to live to at least 100.
Many thanks!”
—Mary-Lois Barden
Houston, Texas
This story is excerpted from Elderhostel Odyssey, published in 2005.