I was recently scheduled to host a local tour for the ‘Over 50’s’ club in Paradise, Newfoundland. This was the third time we worked with this group so when I stepped on the bus a lady in the front seat sized me up and asked;
“Are you the same man who did this tour last year?”
“… are you the same man…”
I don’t know why or where it came from, but as straight as I’m here, replied without a moment’s hesitation;
“Not according to the wife I’m not. All she talks about is how much I’ve changed! Can’t be the same man now can I!”
They got a great chuckle out of that – which only encouraged me to keep the joke rolling;
“There is one thing that has really changed since last year,,,,,, I’m old enough to join your club this year! It’s true, and you must know the effect that’s after having on my mind. Turning 50 is a big deal for anyone so I guarantee you my tour has changed. I can say things that I wouldn’t dare to even think last year, fearful the expression on my face would expose me!”
Which leads to an interesting observation about my touring career and why I enjoy our guest’s company so much.
“… there’s nothing better than that!”
When we first started McCarthy’s Party, I was a child. Not a child labourer mind you, but I was that young my guests made every trip feel like a vacation with your Grandparents. And you know there’s nothing better than that. They were so fun and treated me with such kindness. They’re advice was offered when opportunity necessitated, were quick to offer praise, and always appreciated even the smallest gesture of kindness.
Upon moving back to Newfoundland in 2014, my brother was stuck for a guide and though I protested (having been off the road for over 20 years), he reminded me that it was no different than riding a bike – you never lose the how. He was right, and I’ve been guiding ever since. But this time around it felt like I was traveling with my parents. Which I also loved. My folks and my uncles are my best friends, who, just like our guests, make excellent company. We share adult conversations and it seems that every day provides a new learning opportunity for each of us.
“… rolling with my peers.”
Now that I’ve turned 50 – well it appears we’ve finally caught up to each other and for the first time I’m rolling with my peers. Which is wonderful to anticipate – but in reality, may still be some time away. There’s no doubt we recently took a booking from a woman who is two months younger than me – but the demographic for our guests is stretching the bell curve’s bulge to match our improved health, longevity, and changing life attitudes.
Earlier I failed to mention that when we first started McCarthy’s Party 37 years ago – there were no men on our tours. The poor fellows simply didn’t last that long back in the day. Now all our guests are living much longer and healthier lives and the reality of an ‘Over 50’s Club’ is that, even with all my bad habits, my membership is probably good for 30 years or more.
Thankfully, it looks like we’ll be touring together for a long while yet, hoping that I never catch the last of you and we keep these good times rolling forever more.
Can’t wait to meet you
