Route to 66
24,106 days… and counting
Route to 66
Wow! 66 years and counting. That is 24,106 days! This time last year, as I ushered in my 65th, I ignited a newfound passion for fitness. From a starting point of 220 lbs, I managed to shed 25 lbs before turning my attention to muscle-building. My inclination for solitary workouts kept me away from the lively atmosphere of gyms. But by August, I embraced the “200 Mile Ride To End ALZ” challenge for the Alzheimer’s Association. My initial fundraising goal was $200, but with overwhelming support, I reached an astounding $500. Balancing my professional commitments with my fitness goals, I triumphantly hit the 200-mile target just in time for my birthday. Although 65 came with its share of fitness challenges, my determination never wavered. My deepest gratitude to everyone who stood by me on this journey.
An unforeseen turn of events earlier this year revolved around health insurance. A trusted insurance agent from my former job made an undeniable case for transitioning to Medicare. Even with the comprehensive coverage from Cindee’s company insurance, and with reassurances that a switch wasn’t crucial, I chose to make the move. Now, not only do we enjoy financial savings, but the suite of benefits has been pleasantly surprising. And the icing on the cake? A gym membership! Despite my past apprehensions about gyms, such a perk was too good to refuse. After considering various gyms in town, I was drawn back to a familiar space where I had previously been a member. A personal rapport with the owner solidified my choice.
Although I still harbor dreams of my private gym sanctuary, fate has other designs! Meanwhile, I’ve committed to regular sessions at my chosen gym. The external world might not see the nuanced changes, but I genuinely feel my body’s transformation. As my muscles tone and the contours of a six-pack begin to take shape, my quest for optimal health continues with gusto.
On the career front, there’s positive momentum. I’ve been engrossed in creating new artwork and dabbling in photography. There’s a tantalizing twist in my photography journey that I’m holding back for now, but it promises to be intriguing. For the art enthusiasts, feel free to peruse my creations at: Rick Stringer’s Art .
This year also marked my support for another heart-touching cause. It’s distressing to realize that countless children face each day without a proper meal. This year, in lieu of birthday gifts, I’m rallying for donations to “Project Feed The Kids.” Any contribution made will directly benefit these children. Managed by J&S Hamburg South, a local restaurant, Project Feed The Kids, a nonprofit, has championed the fight against childhood food insecurity, reaching over 240,000 children to date.
Donate to Project Feed The Kids
Life this year has been a roller coaster. The most heart-wrenching moment was the untimely death of my sister-in-law. A tragic accident took her life when a truck veered off its lane, crashing into the car she shared with my brother. While he’s on the path of physical recovery, the emotional scars will undoubtedly take much longer to heal.
Yet, amidst the sorrow, there were also moments of joy. We celebrated two weddings. My nephew tied the knot last December, and despite the immense grief, our niece—the daughter of my late sister-in-law—got married this year. Both ceremonies were touching and served as poignant reminders of life’s dual nature.
And just this week, I received news that brings a smile to my face: the birth of a beautiful baby girl, courtesy of another nephew and his wife.
Life, with its myriad emotions, marches on.
And as for the title, “Route to 66”? It signifies more than just the celebration of my 66th year. The iconic song stirs a profound nostalgia within me. With memories rooted in both Chicago and Los Angeles, and having personally traveled the legendary Route 66, the song has a cherished spot in my heart.