Retirement done right: How Lisa Holmes saves with CAA

For Lisa Holmes, retirement isn't about slowing down. It's about speeding up.  

After 35 years with the Federal Government of Canada, the Ottawa resident is embracing a new chapter filled with community connections, creative pursuits, and a whole lot of joy. When she retired in 2024, she didn't see it as the end of her career but as the beginning of new opportunities. 

From travelling to learning, Lisa has embraced the freedom of retirement and mastered how to make the most out of this new chapter.  

Embracing a new chapter 

Lisa has always had a knack for event planning, a skill she honed during her time working for the federal government, organizing high-profile meetings. Now, she's turned that passion into a part-time role helping organizations plan conferences around Ottawa. 

"The event planning industry is something I've always enjoyed," Lisa shared. "Now that I'm retired, I can pick and choose what I want to do." 

Her part-time job in event planning has allowed Lisa to grow her skills and keeps her busy. "I do all of these extra things because I just like learning," Lisa said. "I want to keep my mind active, and I want to learn new things and meet new people."   

Lisa's commitment to giving back extends beyond event planning. She's known for her playful spirit, often donning inflatable costumes to bring smiles to her community. 

Whether it's tobogganing in a dinosaur suit or walking a 5K in an inflatable cow costume, Lisa's antics are all about spreading joy. 

"It makes people's day," Lisa said. "And it's a great way to stay active and connected." 

Family, friends, and fun  

When she's not volunteering or planning events, Lisa prioritizes time with her family and friends. Sports are a big part of her family life, with summers spent cheering on the Ottawa Titans and winters at the Canadian Tire Centre. 

While Lisa is a die-hard Pittsburgh Penguins fan, her husband and son root for the Ottawa Senators. Even her best friend and partner-in-shenanigans, Sue, is a Sens fan. "We may cheer for different teams, but we all love the atmosphere," Lisa said with a laugh. 

Lisa’s love of sports goes beyond hockey. “I am more of a baseball fan than hockey,” Lisa shared. She enjoys heading to Ottawa Titans games or planning a trip to Toronto to see the Blue Jays. 

Travel is another passion for Lisa, especially when it involves supporting her daughter, a dancer with Royal Caribbean Cruises. "Every contract she gets, we make it a point to see her perform," Lisa shared. 

Beyond cruising, Lisa also enjoys seeing different parts of Canada. Whether it's a trip to Toronto to cheer on the Blue Jays or taking VIA Rail to Montreal. “We love taking the train!” Lisa exclaimed. The convenience of VIA Rail means that Lisa and her family can spend more time together enjoying a trip.  

Hopefully, there are even more trips on the horizon for Lisa. “My husband's going to be retiring soon, so we will hopefully be travelling more.” 

Savings that keep up with her busy life 

With her active lifestyle, Lisa relies on her CAA Membership to save money and provide peace of mind. 

"I love a deal," Lisa admitted. "My husband and kids always tease me about collecting rewards and discounts.” 

Whether she is trying new places or learning about new cruise itineraries, savings that align with her personality and interests are Lisa’s priority. “It’s good value and easy to understand and use,” she said about her Membership. 

Lisa knows that from sports tickets to travel insurance and airport parking, costs can add up. Her Membership helps her rack up the savings on things like fuelling up at Shell stations, tickets and parking for the Ottawa Senators and even dinners with her friends at Montana's. In the past year alone, she's saved $235. “My membership pays for itself.”  

For Lisa, the value goes beyond dollars and cents. Her Membership offers the reassurance that, whether she's planning her next trip or simply heading out for a day of fun, CAA has her back. She knows she can trust her favourite Travel Consultant to have her back.