[James Matthew Najera]

General Discussion Thread 05.28.2025​

Hey GrayViners!

Let’s talk about those “better late than never” victories!

What’s a skill you picked up later in life that you’re actually super proud of?

Maybe it’s playing an instrument, learning a new language, figuring out how to sew a straight line (finally!), or just learning how to keep a houseplant alive. No judgment here—if it made you smile or gave you a little confidence boost, it counts.

I’ll go first: cooking. I used to think grilled cheese was the height of my culinary ability... and then I discovered the magic of roasting veggies, making soups from scratch, and not burning everything in the oven. Now the kitchen’s my happy place—and hey, no one’s gone hungry yet!

So what about you? What skill did you master a little later in life that makes you go, “Yep, I did that”?

Drop it in the comments—we’re all ears (and applause)!

Cheers!
Blue

 

[davidsvine]

The skill I picked up later in life was being a leader of a bible study group. I never thought I would be a good leader.

 

[Marta]

I learned to crochet in my 60’s. I began painting and started sewing again.

 

[Arkie98]

Running a computer, still have a flip phone but can text. Thanx to my sister now deceased.

 

[CejaeRee]

Newly retired. Thinking about photography and learning how to use photo shop.

 

[jml123]

I can look at any item, and can make it. But now I can make it better. I go to art shows and look at something oh I can make that and I do. But as I got older I have vastly improved that item.

 

[tennis]

Marrying a farmer and learning how to keep farm books for the tax people. learning to plant wheat, haul loads of corn to elevator. it made a farmer out f a city girl.

 

[tennkerrc]

Homemade biscuits and gravy!

 

[clc22]

At age 60 learned to live and be by myself and take public transportation. Had to learn this after my husband of 41 1/2 years suddenly passed away.

 

[Gayle B.]

The skill I picked up later in life was being a leader of a bible study group. I never thought I would be a good leader.

Way to go! I’m proud of you too!

 

[lindadominguez]

An important one:
Believing in myself.

 

[Gayle B.]

I can look at any item, and can make it. But now I can make it better. I go to art shows and look at something oh I can make that and I do. But as I got older I have vastly improved that item.

That’s admirable and a fantastic talent!

 

[Hazeleyes]

Doing home improvement work. I am good at painting. Still learning the fine arts of spackling. I try to tackle things that need to be fixed and if I cannot do it I hire someone to do the work.

 

[TriciaR]

The skill I picked up later in life was being a leader of a bible study group. I never thought I would be a good leader.

Thank you so much for sharing that with us @davidsvine ! That’s such a wonderful skill to have picked up — and one that takes both courage and compassion. It’s amazing what we discover we’re capable of later in life. You should be very proud of stepping into that leadership role!

 

[TriciaR]

I learned to crochet in my 60’s. I began painting and started sewing again.

That’s fantastic — it sounds like you’ve really embraced your creative side! Learning to crochet in your 60s, picking up painting, and returning to sewing is such an inspiring combination. If you haven’t already, you might enjoy sharing (or even picking up more inspiration) in our Craft Corner forum. Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us @Marta !

 

[TriciaR]

Running a computer, still have a flip phone but can text. Thanx to my sister now deceased.

That’s really touching @Arkie98 — it sounds like your sister left you with a meaningful gift. Learning to run a computer and even texting on a flip phone is no small feat, especially with a loved one guiding you along the way. Thank you for sharing that with us.

 

[TriciaR]

Newly retired. Thinking about photography and learning how to use photo shop.

That sounds like a fantastic plan! Photography is such a rewarding hobby, and learning Photoshop can really open up a whole new world of creativity. If you’re looking for inspiration or tips, feel free to check out our Photography forum — there’s a whole community of like-minded members sharing their journeys. Thanks for sharing your next chapter with us @CejaeRee !

 

[TriciaR]

I can look at any item, and can make it. But now I can make it better. I go to art shows and look at something oh I can make that and I do. But as I got older I have vastly improved that item.

That’s such a remarkable gift @jml123 — the ability to look at something and not only recreate it, but make it even better. It’s a true mark of creativity and mastery when you can see your own progress over time. Thank you for sharing that with us — and if you ever feel like showcasing your work or connecting with fellow creatives, our Craft Corner forum is a great place to do it.

 

[TriciaR]

Marrying a farmer and learning how to keep farm books for the tax people. learning to plant wheat, haul loads of corn to elevator. it made a farmer out f a city girl.

That’s such a wonderful transformation — from city life to farm life, and embracing it fully! Learning the ropes of farm bookkeeping, planting crops, and hauling corn is no small feat. Thank you for sharing this @tennis ! It’s inspiring to see how life can lead us down unexpected paths and teach us so much along the way.

 

[TriciaR]

Homemade biscuits and gravy!

Now that’s a skill to be proud of — nothing beats homemade biscuits and gravy! We’d love it if you shared your recipe or tips in our Cooking and Recipes forum — it’s always a treat when members share their kitchen favorites! Thank you for joining the conversation @tennkerrc !