Many years ago, I embarked on a transformative journey as a missionary in the vibrant landscapes of South America, where I unearthed a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. From the majestic fjords of Patagonia in Argentina, where towering cliffs meet the shimmering sea, to the awe-inspiring heights of Peru’s rugged mountains, I was enveloped by the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. I marveled at Colombia’s lush, green valleys, filled with the sweet scent of coffee blossoms, and the striking red earth of Paraguay, which stood as a testament to the rich soil where life flourishes. Each location etched itself in my heart, inspiring me to document my adventures by photo. This journey ignited a deep passion for storytelling through blogging. 

        Years later, while I have embraced the comforts of an active 55+ community and traded my adventurous globetrotting for a more settled lifestyle, the spirit of discovery still burns brightly within me. This innate desire for exploration and my longing to learn new things led me to volunteer as the editor of the local newspaper, “News & Views.” This role became a remarkable learning experience, opening the doors to my community and revealing its hidden stories and treasures.   My year as the Marketing Director for this community deepened my connection to this place I now call home and sharpened my interest in storytelling about it. 2024 was a fun and special year for me, as I had the opportunity to document all the activities and events happening around us.  However, in 2025, those traditional avenues for sharing were no longer available to me. Despite this, my excitement for capturing the essence of our community through words and images remained as strong as ever. It was during this time that I recalled all the fun I had blogging in my younger, more adventurous days.

         Ultimately, I decided it was time to start blogging again.   The name of my blog, ‘Unshackled in Woodburn’, perfectly embodies the evolution of my personal journey. It arose from the frustrations of often hearing “no, you can’t do this,” like chains binding my spirit. Breaking free from those limitations unleashed an exhilarating sense of liberation, allowing me to fully embrace my authentic self. It is actually a perfect name for all of us in this community.  Retirement has bestowed upon us a newfound freedom—from the demands of child-rearing, the relentless daily grind of work, and the constraints of a rigid schedule. This transformation resonates deeply within my community, serving as a poignant reminder that even in our golden years, the adventure is far from over, waiting to be embraced and explored anew.