What do motorcycles, French classes, and square dancing have in common? They are hobbies shared by adventure-seekers Jesse and Rita Hodsdon.
The Hodsdons’ passion for adventure first began as a way to reconnect after Jesse returned from service in Vietnam. Throughout Jesse’s military service, they lived a nomadic existence, making motorcycling a natural passion. Since then, the Hodsdons’ have logged thousands of miles as they bike and RV across the country and North America. No distance daunts them, whether it’s driving from England to Morocco or from Florida to Canada.
As a way to become involved in activities and give back to others, the couple joined the Senior Center Foundation. Rita makes birthday cards for Senior Center participants, sings with the Senior Singers, and performs at nursing homes, while Jesse tags along as their resident photographer. The pair takes French classes to connect with Rita’s family roots in Quebec, and have put their lessons to the test during travels to France and Belgium. Rita says their involvement with the Senior Center provides an outlet to enjoy a “sense of belonging” and live their lives to the fullest.
Each new adventure provides Jesse and Rita with an opportunity to learn something new while spending quality time together. Whatever they choose to do, they do it with enthusiasm. Younger couples can draw inspiration from the Hodsdons’ example that no task is too large to undertake when you have your partner by your side – you can learn to square dance, perform on the road, travel with your motorcycle, or pursue degrees at Florida State University later in life.
After 63 years of marriage, Jesse and Rita have raised three children and filled their life with adventures. The couple attests that the key to their happy and fulfilling marriage is the ability to “communicate well and often.” What began as a way to reconnect blossomed into a lifetime of excitement and a legacy of happiness to leave behind to their loving family.
