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Beyond the Pause​ Blog

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A Year of Surprises: From Broken Toe to Rainy Burning Man, and Turning 60 Introduction:

12/2/2023

3 Comments

 
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Life is an unpredictable journey, full of twists and turns that keep us on our toes—literally in my case, considering I recently did my regular pilgrimage to Burning Man with a broken toe. Join me as I reflect on the unexpected adventures of the past year, from the eccentricity of Portland to the nostalgic Thanksgiving in Columbia, MO, and the pursuit of a Master's in Health and Wellness Coaching at the age of 60.
Burning Man Chronicles:
This year's Burning Man was unlike any other, with the desert dust being replaced by unanticipated rain showers. Navigating the surreal landscape with a broken toe added an extra layer of challenge, but it turned out to be an unforgettable experience—one that taught me the resilience of both the human spirit and a well-constructed raincoat.

Portland, the City of Eccentricities:
Following the dusty trails of Burning Man, I found myself in the eclectic city of Portland. Known for its unique charm, I embraced the vibrant culture, explored the quirky neighborhoods, and indulged in the city's renowned culinary scene. The city's energy fueled my passion for health and wellness, setting the stage for the next chapter of my journey.

Thanksgiving in Columbia, MO:
Columbia holds a special place in my heart, as it's where I first entered the U.S. in my early thirties. Revisiting this city during Thanksgiving was a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Connecting with my first U.S. bestie, we reminisced, laughed, and even floated down a lazy river—a perfect way to celebrate the bonds that transcend time and distance.

Academic Pursuits at 60:
As I reveled in the memories of my past, the present was equally exciting. Pursuing a Master's in Health and Wellness Coaching (May 2024 is graduation! :) ), complemented by an AA in Fitness Technology from Portland Community College and a year-certificate in Nutrition Coaching from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, my goal is to empower others in their wellness journey. It's never too late to invest in our well-being and help others do the same.

Upcoming Adventures:
Life at 60 is proving to be a time of renewal and exploration. With plans to discover a piece of South America, I'm setting my sights on Uruguay early next year. The anticipation of new experiences and cultural immersion fuels my adventurous spirit, proving that age is just a number.

Celebrating 60 and Shredding:
Oh, did I mention I celebrated my 60th birthday? It's a milestone that deserves recognition and gratitude for the years of lessons, laughter, and love. To mark this occasion, I embarked on a 6-week shred, a personal challenge to prioritize my physical well-being and embrace the journey of self-improvement.

As I wrap up this whirlwind of a year, I can't help but marvel at the richness of life's tapestry. From dancing on a tricycle in the rain at Burning Man to reliving memories in Columbia, MO, and pursuing academic dreams at 60, every experience has shaped me into the person I am today. Life is indeed a journey worth celebrating, and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next chapter—full of surprises, growth, and, of course, a bit of adventure. Cheers to life at 60 and the many more years of discovery ahead!

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3 Comments
Stacey
12/13/2023 08:02:42 pm

I hear life begins at 60! 😉

Reply
Karina Yanku LMT link
1/15/2025 08:10:04 am

And here is proof that you're never too old to take on new adventures! That 2024 Burning Man adventure definitely gives you street cred. The news outlets made the cold rains and mud sound like Armageddon, but true Burners are hardy folks, and managed to make the best of it all. Way to Burn, my friend!

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    Rusty Ferrel, the voice behind Beyond the Pause, is a Postmenopause Wellness Expert dedicated to guiding women through life’s second act with vitality and confidence. With a Master’s in Health and Wellness Coaching and certifications in fitness and nutrition, Rusty combines her expertise and passion to inspire holistic well-being. Through Alive and Healing Now and her blog, Rusty offers practical insights, personal reflections, and empowering strategies to help women thrive beyond menopause.


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