**Always include random pictures on these posts as there are not specific pictures that relate necessarily to what I talking about- a little eye candy never hurt anyone!**
Hi friends,
I’m really enjoying these “let’s talk” posts—and it seems like many of you are, too—so let’s keep the conversation going.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how our perspective shifts as we get older. It seems like our priorities subtly realign, and suddenly, we’re looking at life through a different lens. For me, that lens started to shift after 50 and since, it’s become more profound the time marches on.
There’s this strange moment when you realize you might be doing something for the last time. That thought hit me hard. I remember being in Amsterdam at the Keukenhof tulip Festival last year and thinking, “I hope this isn’t the last time I get to experience this.” I’m determined to make sure it’s not—but even having that thought was eye-opening.
The same happened when I went skiing a year or two ago and the last time I rode Duke—I caught myself thinking, “Could this be the last time?” These moments stick with you. The truth is, riding is definitely likely behind me and skiing probably as well. I will never say never but its unlikely. So, its coming to terms and succumbing to these feelings that has been eye opening to say theleast.
And while that realization can feel heavy, it’s also become powerful motivator. It’s made me look at time differently—how I spend it, who I spend it with, and what I choose to say yes to. I’m no longer interested in putting off trips, special dinners, or even maybe some spontaneous adventures that come my way. I want to make time count. I want to be more intentional, more mindful, and more present in the time I have—especially with the people who mean the most to me.
The silver lining? This shift isn’t a negative one. In fact, it might be the best thing that’s happened to my perspective. I find myself saying things like, “Well, if we’re lucky, we have 20 (hopefully many more) more good years to enjoy it—so let’s go for it.” It feels freeing, even a little thrilling—to be impulsive in a mindful, meaningful way. There are time or decisions I would have to make that would normally take some time for me to consider, but I am becoming a little more “responsibly impulsive” *new term! Haha!
Now, the other part to this is that I feel really young. I think really young. And when people tell me I look young (for my age) that makes me feel younger. I still feel like there are few things I cannot do. In fact, don’t judge- but I read the other day that many/most adults after they turn 50 forget how to skip. Yes, I said skip as in that thing we used to do as kids. So I decided to put it to the test, and though I was definitely rusty, even to the point of being comical (at first I had my doubts) the stubborn part of me persevered and yes, I was able to skip. Try it…you will give yourself a laugh unless you are a regular “skipper”. I think the last time I skipped was maybe at 15 year olds!
So in some ways I am willing myself to do things that some might not. I am most definitely a high energy, multi tasker and thankfully so far, haven’t lost it. I may get pooped every now and then but my energy level is still quite high. I want to take advantage of it and keep doing things on my “wish list”! I don’t want to wake up one morning and feel that I am ” too old or its “too late”. I will push myself at times to do something just to prove I can. Wrong or right, its just who I am. So….now its your turn to weigh in. I’d love to hear from you.
Have you experienced this kind of shift in perspective?
What has changed for you as you’ve gotten older?
Are there things you’re no longer willing to put off and how relatable is my post to where you are in life?
LAST DAY OF OUR PORCELAIN SALE! THIS ONE IS A GOOD ONE!
CLICK HERE TO VISIT SALE
Hope you enjoyed my post. It felt good discussing something that I have been thinking about and I will be so curious to see how you feel. And don’t forget to try and skip, would be so curious as to how that goes:) Hope you have a great Friday! Until next time…..
Love that about the skipping – recently I’ve randomly asked my friends & adult kids – when was the last time you skipped & can you still skip – made for some funny moments & like you, I wasn’t sure how to go about it & worried I might fall, but managed to do it
And yes to the wondering if trips or experiences might be the last time and/or no longer doing certain things
Yes Tina, my perspective on life changed in the last couple of years. (I am now 70) I love spending time with my grandchildren and family. I have always loved interior design and shopping antique stores, but now it’s more of looking, not buying. I am grateful for my health, everyday is a blessing. As for travel, we enjoy short trips, Santa Barbara is about an hour away for us, and we frequent it often. Making memories with my granddaughters is my priority.
Love this post and sharing your thoughts. I am 52 and have had a lot of the same rationale and thinking that you have had.Last year, we went on an incredible safari trip to Africa. I realized probably the last time I will go to Africa. It was a big trip (once in a lifetime) but still it made me a little sad to think that there was going to be a “last” of anything.
I have adapted a similar attitude as you have, about seizing the day! I try to challenge myself with doing things as well. Life is short and we need to take FULL advantage!
My awareness of time came with my grandsons. My 10 yr old and i have our favourite song since he was about 2 (Che Vuole Questa Musica Stasera) he wouldn’t move while listening to it. We both love it and we would listen to it on YouTube sometimes several times at one time and I said to him that one day when he married he and I would dance to it. Having said it out loud it suddenly hit me that I probably won’t be living (I’m turning 70 in a few months)
We (just the two of us) have regular lunch or dinners at different restaurants and he enjoys them as much as I do. My wish is that everyone had a grandchild as sweet, polite and considerate as he is!
With my 15 month old grandson I’m trying to enjoy him as much as I can and hopefully he has good memories of his grandma (his favourite song is Lara’s Theme from Dr Zhivago – totally mesmerized by it!)
I’ve recently broken my shoulder and out of commission for 3-1/2 months. Certainly do not bounce back as one does in their youth!
Good Morning Tina, Life goes by so quickly. I am in my 80’s and I don’t know where all those years have gone. Live your life as wonderful as you can. Because you never know when your last day will come. You have great memories and that is wonderful. Also your wonderful family. Enjoy everyday! I love your blog and it brings me a great deal of joy!
Well this certainly hit home! At 65 I’ve come to realize I better seize each day, and enjoy every tiny little thing to the fullest.
I’ve started giving some of my pretty things away to people who I know will enjoy and use them and I will continue doing this.
I know how much I love the items I have that belonged to those who went before me and who were very special people to me,
I’d rather know now that my family and friends have them and will remember me and use them. My precious mother gave me her beautiful china when I turned 30. She wanted to see me use it, and use it I have! She is now gone and I treasure every single thing that she ever touched and used.
I’ve also started telling total strangers more often how beautiful they are or that they look lovely in that outfit, or their children are
darling. Everyone feels good from a compliment and I see no need to keep it to myself when seeing them brings me joy.
They say the best is yet to come. We are all so very lucky to have come this far. Have a lovely day!
Thank you for your lovely comment. I second your sentiment and insight especially since I’m coming alone right behind you. The issue after 50 is that you realize you’re on the back 9 and hope that you don’t peter out too early. Much of it has to do with many of things we ponder when young…where will go to college, who will be my roommate, what will I major it, what job, what city, what home(s), who may I fall in love with, will I have a boy or girl, how many children, how many sister & brother in laws and then all the activities that go along with each. At this point, unfortunately, I ponder how many years before some ailment arises, how severe will it be, how will I weather it and where should I visit while I can….the main issue is with whom? My husband enjoys his adventures reading a good book…me, drinking coffee in a new city right before exploring it. Oddly, inclement weather doesn’t deter me…hence, I try to travel whenever I find a reasonable flight…no destination in mind…so long as the flight & accommodations are reasonable, I’ll find it fascinating.
I felt the same way at 50 as you do. I’m now 70 but I don’t feel any closer to death’s door. Those 20 years flew by in a flash and I feel the same physically. Mentally, I feel younger. I finally got sick of complaining to myself and anyone who would listen (older folks would roll their eyes at me) that I was 50, then 60, and torturing myself over the past things I had done as well as things I might never get to do once much less again. I realized I was wasting the time I had left doing that. My best advice is to grateful for all we have, all we have learned and just get on with enjoying it! Someone once told me to me to quit looking in the rear view mirror – I’m not going that way! These days we have a good chance of living to 100. That’s a long time still to be lived!! Another 50 years for you, Yay! Plenty of time to do whatever we feel like doing. I get up every day and act as if I’m 49. Feels so much better.
I am in my seventies and I live by that measure of “last times” every day now since the reality is that they are occurring more and more. I feel young but my body reminds me otherwise. In the last nine years I’ve lost mother, father, brother, house where I grew up, and now my husband. I’ve never thought about illness or death until then. Now it’s sunk in that we only borrow time and loved ones. The closer to Jesus we become the better we survive. He is a great gift!
Yes my perspective changed after 50 and lengthy illness.
I decided to enjoy life and do not wait- seize the day !
This post is so relatable as my husband & I used to say we will do it in future- no longer wait
Just enjoy life and be present
Thank you for this very enlightening post. It reasonates deeply with me. I feel like I have a finite runway in front of me and I want to fill it with a quality life experience. I am out of patience for doing things that don’t meet that criteria. It is a happy time in a time of life filled with discernment.
One of the things I’ve noticed changing is my buying habits. I have a big houseful of wonderful things but my kids will probably want very little of it. Now before I buy another thing I ask myself if this is something anyone would want or cherish in their own homes? If not how much enjoyment will I get out of buying another thing for my home when it will just get sold in an estate sale?
I am 71 years old and I realize that every day is a gift so it enables me to enjoy and savor the moments with friends and family. But it also reminds me that there are only 2 things I can invest my time in that will last into eternity- people and the Word of God. That is where my focus is now.
I so enjoyed your recent post. When my children were growing up, I so often reminded myself to never forget what being young was like. With that mindset, I was more inclined to understand and relate to the experiences and emotions my children were going through. Now at almost 61, I am experiencing all that with my grandchildren. Last week, while visiting them in Nashville, I was teaching my 3 year old grandson the fine art of hopscotch! 😀! I am enjoying this stage in my life. Savoring the simple pleasures!
Realizing that I (now in my mid-sixties) am entering the final stage of my life has made my life goals much more pressing, There is a sense of urgency now that was never there before. When options and opportunities present themselves now, I ask myself, “If not now, when?” This is not a dress rehearsal. This is it. So, I spend time with my loved ones much more mindfully, but I am also very much focused on achieving long delayed dreams that (in the past) I allowed other people to dissuade me away from. Grab life by the horns and live it fully. And don’t give a thought to how other people will judge your choices — because it’s YOUR life, not theirs. Give yourself permission. Carpe diem! ❤️
what a lovely and thought provoking commentary. I turn 70 next February – how did that happen?! – I’m lucky that I can now find great joy, sense of youth and perspective in seeing our beautiful world through the eyes of the children around me. Though I’m not blessed with grandchildren, I am so fortunate to have two exquisite grand nieces and one hilarious grand nephew. How wonderful it has been to learn how to play along with them and see life through their eyes. It has given me a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for what an extraordinary life I’m so blessed to live.
Hi Tina, I guess by some of the comments other left, we are all feeling about the same as we age. I don’t let little issues bother me as much any more. I too stopped skiing for fear of hurting myself and being laid up. I am definitely high energy and don’t have time to be laid up with an accident. I travel with my husband but he seems to enjoy it more than I do. I prefer to be near my family and grandkids. We split our time between our home and beach house. That keeps us very busy but I love it when my family is all around. Having grandkids is like reliving your younger self all over again. You get a second chance at it. During Covid I did a lot of editing with my two houses and kept only the things that bring me joy. I don’t want to leave a huge inventory for my kids to dispose of. I now only spend time with friends that I truly love. Not enough time left in my life for any drama, or competition. Enjoy every day with those you love and let them know. Two of the hardest things I have gone through so far, was losing my mother. She was my best friend. (this you understand completely) The second is aging. It came so fast. I’m 70 and cherish every day. Love your blog and also love blue and white!!
Great post Tina!
Like you, I turned 60 last year and I totally embraced it as I don’t feel 60 and my 4 grandkids keep me on my toes. When Phillip starts moving more you will discover that you’ll be running and chasing him around everywhere… you can even teach him to skip 😍
I heard someone say that if you live 20 more years that 20 more summers, winters, autumns and springs you will have in your lifetime….I will never complain about being too hot or too cold now etc with that thought in mind. I still have my favourite seasons though.
Loving your let’s talk posts as they definitely resonate with me.
Thanks
I turned 70 three months ago. Like many of you have expressed, I can’t believe I am “here” so fast. I also am still very active, work part-time because I love it, travel a lot, and yes, ride horses. (my friend who rides every week just turned 80.) But I did a little mini-assessment and decided a few things:
-not to spend time with people who are not life-giving, to the extent I can choose.
-to protect myself from falling as much as possible. So many people are limited ongoing or even die, from complications from a fall. This meant practical changes like getting rid of throw rugs, random cords, and clutter on the floor. I loved the runner in front of my kitchen sink, but had tripped on it a few times, so it is no more. Sigh. I put an old person rubber mat in the shower because I had slipped a couple of times. I love the shower pan tile, but I want to stay upright more than look at it……🙄
-anything I buy has to be a replacement/upgrade for something already existing, and the former thing goes…..our kids would use our names in vain if they were left with our very full house at the moment, although we are culling and weeding out now.
-to read the best books and enjoy the best art out there. Good writing and good art point to truth.
-to keep my body moving, and sit less.
-to serve others. Always. I believe the greatest joys in life, other than close relationships, are to be found in service to others.
Tina – I loved your post especially the part about complimenting others outright, rather than keeping the thought to yourself. I do the same thing! I turned 70 in December and I agree with so many ….where have the last 20-30 years gone? How quickly I have arrived here!
Regarding skipping… I have been thinking about that for several year. Since I have had both knees replaced due to athletic injuries, I decided to try skipping in the water in the shallow end of the pool. I brought that challenge to the rest of my water aerobics group last summer and we all practiced skipping. Much safer in the pool than on land because it isn’t completely weight bearing in the water. It was a great way to relearn a simple skill without any physical risk. The worst that can happen in the water is if you slip or trip, you might get your hair wet!
Tina,
I understand, I understand! yes, no more putting off. Recent example: I know that many dogs live to be 15 plus. I decided that this is the last reasonable chance to get a puppy. Husband is a fair amount older than I am and not feeling ANY urgency, Hmmmm… but I am not putting off the new puppy.
I also realize that antiques ( a fav. pastime) are not as popular with todays young people so I am much less likely to indulge in them as I know my kids have little interest except for a few things, Times have really changed, The decor or young people has changed. Expensive and straight forward. Not fussy at all.
This gets back to the puppy. I need to outlive a pup so that my kids will not feel forced to take on that responsibility when the “time” comes. So, Tina, if you didn’t already do the English Cream Golden, time is wasting!
This is good, to speak of these “awareness’s”, very, very needed but, DARN, it is depressing! 🙁
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**Always include random pictures on these posts as there are not specific pictures that relate necessarily to what I talking about- a little eye candy never hurt anyone!**
Hi friends,
I’m really enjoying these “let’s talk” posts—and it seems like many of you are, too—so let’s keep the conversation going.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how our perspective shifts as we get older. It seems like our priorities subtly realign, and suddenly, we’re looking at life through a different lens. For me, that lens started to shift after 50 and since, it’s become more profound the time marches on.
There’s this strange moment when you realize you might be doing something for the last time. That thought hit me hard. I remember being in Amsterdam at the Keukenhof tulip Festival last year and thinking, “I hope this isn’t the last time I get to experience this.” I’m determined to make sure it’s not—but even having that thought was eye-opening.
The same happened when I went skiing a year or two ago and the last time I rode Duke—I caught myself thinking, “Could this be the last time?” These moments stick with you. The truth is, riding is definitely likely behind me and skiing probably as well. I will never say never but its unlikely. So, its coming to terms and succumbing to these feelings that has been eye opening to say theleast.
And while that realization can feel heavy, it’s also become powerful motivator. It’s made me look at time differently—how I spend it, who I spend it with, and what I choose to say yes to. I’m no longer interested in putting off trips, special dinners, or even maybe some spontaneous adventures that come my way. I want to make time count. I want to be more intentional, more mindful, and more present in the time I have—especially with the people who mean the most to me.
The silver lining? This shift isn’t a negative one. In fact, it might be the best thing that’s happened to my perspective. I find myself saying things like, “Well, if we’re lucky, we have 20 (hopefully many more) more good years to enjoy it—so let’s go for it.” It feels freeing, even a little thrilling—to be impulsive in a mindful, meaningful way. There are time or decisions I would have to make that would normally take some time for me to consider, but I am becoming a little more “responsibly impulsive” *new term! Haha!
Now, the other part to this is that I feel really young. I think really young. And when people tell me I look young (for my age) that makes me feel younger. I still feel like there are few things I cannot do. In fact, don’t judge- but I read the other day that many/most adults after they turn 50 forget how to skip. Yes, I said skip as in that thing we used to do as kids. So I decided to put it to the test, and though I was definitely rusty, even to the point of being comical (at first I had my doubts) the stubborn part of me persevered and yes, I was able to skip. Try it…you will give yourself a laugh unless you are a regular “skipper”. I think the last time I skipped was maybe at 15 year olds!
So in some ways I am willing myself to do things that some might not. I am most definitely a high energy, multi tasker and thankfully so far, haven’t lost it. I may get pooped every now and then but my energy level is still quite high. I want to take advantage of it and keep doing things on my “wish list”! I don’t want to wake up one morning and feel that I am ” too old or its “too late”. I will push myself at times to do something just to prove I can. Wrong or right, its just who I am. So….now its your turn to weigh in. I’d love to hear from you.
Have you experienced this kind of shift in perspective?
What has changed for you as you’ve gotten older?
Are there things you’re no longer willing to put off and how relatable is my post to where you are in life?
_______________________________________________________
LAST DAY OF OUR PORCELAIN SALE! THIS ONE IS A GOOD ONE!
CLICK HERE TO VISIT SALE
Hope you enjoyed my post. It felt good discussing something that I have been thinking about and I will be so curious to see how you feel. And don’t forget to try and skip, would be so curious as to how that goes:) Hope you have a great Friday! Until next time…..
Love that about the skipping – recently I’ve randomly asked my friends & adult kids – when was the last time you skipped & can you still skip – made for some funny moments & like you, I wasn’t sure how to go about it & worried I might fall, but managed to do it
And yes to the wondering if trips or experiences might be the last time and/or no longer doing certain things
Yes Tina, my perspective on life changed in the last couple of years. (I am now 70) I love spending time with my grandchildren and family. I have always loved interior design and shopping antique stores, but now it’s more of looking, not buying. I am grateful for my health, everyday is a blessing. As for travel, we enjoy short trips, Santa Barbara is about an hour away for us, and we frequent it often. Making memories with my granddaughters is my priority.
Love this post and sharing your thoughts. I am 52 and have had a lot of the same rationale and thinking that you have had.Last year, we went on an incredible safari trip to Africa. I realized probably the last time I will go to Africa. It was a big trip (once in a lifetime) but still it made me a little sad to think that there was going to be a “last” of anything.
I have adapted a similar attitude as you have, about seizing the day! I try to challenge myself with doing things as well. Life is short and we need to take FULL advantage!
My awareness of time came with my grandsons. My 10 yr old and i have our favourite song since he was about 2 (Che Vuole Questa Musica Stasera) he wouldn’t move while listening to it. We both love it and we would listen to it on YouTube sometimes several times at one time and I said to him that one day when he married he and I would dance to it. Having said it out loud it suddenly hit me that I probably won’t be living (I’m turning 70 in a few months)
We (just the two of us) have regular lunch or dinners at different restaurants and he enjoys them as much as I do. My wish is that everyone had a grandchild as sweet, polite and considerate as he is!
With my 15 month old grandson I’m trying to enjoy him as much as I can and hopefully he has good memories of his grandma (his favourite song is Lara’s Theme from Dr Zhivago – totally mesmerized by it!)
I’ve recently broken my shoulder and out of commission for 3-1/2 months. Certainly do not bounce back as one does in their youth!
Good Morning Tina, Life goes by so quickly. I am in my 80’s and I don’t know where all those years have gone. Live your life as wonderful as you can. Because you never know when your last day will come. You have great memories and that is wonderful. Also your wonderful family. Enjoy everyday! I love your blog and it brings me a great deal of joy!
Well this certainly hit home! At 65 I’ve come to realize I better seize each day, and enjoy every tiny little thing to the fullest.
I’ve started giving some of my pretty things away to people who I know will enjoy and use them and I will continue doing this.
I know how much I love the items I have that belonged to those who went before me and who were very special people to me,
I’d rather know now that my family and friends have them and will remember me and use them. My precious mother gave me her beautiful china when I turned 30. She wanted to see me use it, and use it I have! She is now gone and I treasure every single thing that she ever touched and used.
I’ve also started telling total strangers more often how beautiful they are or that they look lovely in that outfit, or their children are
darling. Everyone feels good from a compliment and I see no need to keep it to myself when seeing them brings me joy.
They say the best is yet to come. We are all so very lucky to have come this far. Have a lovely day!
Thank you for your lovely comment. I second your sentiment and insight especially since I’m coming alone right behind you. The issue after 50 is that you realize you’re on the back 9 and hope that you don’t peter out too early. Much of it has to do with many of things we ponder when young…where will go to college, who will be my roommate, what will I major it, what job, what city, what home(s), who may I fall in love with, will I have a boy or girl, how many children, how many sister & brother in laws and then all the activities that go along with each. At this point, unfortunately, I ponder how many years before some ailment arises, how severe will it be, how will I weather it and where should I visit while I can….the main issue is with whom? My husband enjoys his adventures reading a good book…me, drinking coffee in a new city right before exploring it. Oddly, inclement weather doesn’t deter me…hence, I try to travel whenever I find a reasonable flight…no destination in mind…so long as the flight & accommodations are reasonable, I’ll find it fascinating.
I always think as I’m putting away my Christmas decor, is this the last time I will see these?
So far so good!
I felt the same way at 50 as you do. I’m now 70 but I don’t feel any closer to death’s door. Those 20 years flew by in a flash and I feel the same physically. Mentally, I feel younger. I finally got sick of complaining to myself and anyone who would listen (older folks would roll their eyes at me) that I was 50, then 60, and torturing myself over the past things I had done as well as things I might never get to do once much less again. I realized I was wasting the time I had left doing that. My best advice is to grateful for all we have, all we have learned and just get on with enjoying it! Someone once told me to me to quit looking in the rear view mirror – I’m not going that way! These days we have a good chance of living to 100. That’s a long time still to be lived!! Another 50 years for you, Yay! Plenty of time to do whatever we feel like doing. I get up every day and act as if I’m 49. Feels so much better.
I am in my seventies and I live by that measure of “last times” every day now since the reality is that they are occurring more and more. I feel young but my body reminds me otherwise. In the last nine years I’ve lost mother, father, brother, house where I grew up, and now my husband. I’ve never thought about illness or death until then. Now it’s sunk in that we only borrow time and loved ones. The closer to Jesus we become the better we survive. He is a great gift!
Yes my perspective changed after 50 and lengthy illness.
I decided to enjoy life and do not wait- seize the day !
This post is so relatable as my husband & I used to say we will do it in future- no longer wait
Just enjoy life and be present
My goodness – your posts are lovely indeed and I always learn something. But this one, exquisite! Thank you, thank you, thank you! So very much!
Good heavens! You’re only 50. I’m 72 still skiing, mountain biking etc. etc. You are young- time for an attitude’ shift.
Thank you for this very enlightening post. It reasonates deeply with me. I feel like I have a finite runway in front of me and I want to fill it with a quality life experience. I am out of patience for doing things that don’t meet that criteria. It is a happy time in a time of life filled with discernment.
One of the things I’ve noticed changing is my buying habits. I have a big houseful of wonderful things but my kids will probably want very little of it. Now before I buy another thing I ask myself if this is something anyone would want or cherish in their own homes? If not how much enjoyment will I get out of buying another thing for my home when it will just get sold in an estate sale?
I am 71 years old and I realize that every day is a gift so it enables me to enjoy and savor the moments with friends and family. But it also reminds me that there are only 2 things I can invest my time in that will last into eternity- people and the Word of God. That is where my focus is now.
I so enjoyed your recent post. When my children were growing up, I so often reminded myself to never forget what being young was like. With that mindset, I was more inclined to understand and relate to the experiences and emotions my children were going through. Now at almost 61, I am experiencing all that with my grandchildren. Last week, while visiting them in Nashville, I was teaching my 3 year old grandson the fine art of hopscotch! 😀! I am enjoying this stage in my life. Savoring the simple pleasures!
Realizing that I (now in my mid-sixties) am entering the final stage of my life has made my life goals much more pressing, There is a sense of urgency now that was never there before. When options and opportunities present themselves now, I ask myself, “If not now, when?” This is not a dress rehearsal. This is it. So, I spend time with my loved ones much more mindfully, but I am also very much focused on achieving long delayed dreams that (in the past) I allowed other people to dissuade me away from. Grab life by the horns and live it fully. And don’t give a thought to how other people will judge your choices — because it’s YOUR life, not theirs. Give yourself permission. Carpe diem! ❤️
what a lovely and thought provoking commentary. I turn 70 next February – how did that happen?! – I’m lucky that I can now find great joy, sense of youth and perspective in seeing our beautiful world through the eyes of the children around me. Though I’m not blessed with grandchildren, I am so fortunate to have two exquisite grand nieces and one hilarious grand nephew. How wonderful it has been to learn how to play along with them and see life through their eyes. It has given me a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for what an extraordinary life I’m so blessed to live.
This is all I’ve been dealing with for 15 years. I’ve not entered into the 4th quarter of life with ease. Quite the opposite.
Hi Tina, I guess by some of the comments other left, we are all feeling about the same as we age. I don’t let little issues bother me as much any more. I too stopped skiing for fear of hurting myself and being laid up. I am definitely high energy and don’t have time to be laid up with an accident. I travel with my husband but he seems to enjoy it more than I do. I prefer to be near my family and grandkids. We split our time between our home and beach house. That keeps us very busy but I love it when my family is all around. Having grandkids is like reliving your younger self all over again. You get a second chance at it. During Covid I did a lot of editing with my two houses and kept only the things that bring me joy. I don’t want to leave a huge inventory for my kids to dispose of. I now only spend time with friends that I truly love. Not enough time left in my life for any drama, or competition. Enjoy every day with those you love and let them know. Two of the hardest things I have gone through so far, was losing my mother. She was my best friend. (this you understand completely) The second is aging. It came so fast. I’m 70 and cherish every day. Love your blog and also love blue and white!!
Great post Tina!
Like you, I turned 60 last year and I totally embraced it as I don’t feel 60 and my 4 grandkids keep me on my toes. When Phillip starts moving more you will discover that you’ll be running and chasing him around everywhere… you can even teach him to skip 😍
I heard someone say that if you live 20 more years that 20 more summers, winters, autumns and springs you will have in your lifetime….I will never complain about being too hot or too cold now etc with that thought in mind. I still have my favourite seasons though.
Loving your let’s talk posts as they definitely resonate with me.
Thanks
I turned 70 three months ago. Like many of you have expressed, I can’t believe I am “here” so fast. I also am still very active, work part-time because I love it, travel a lot, and yes, ride horses. (my friend who rides every week just turned 80.) But I did a little mini-assessment and decided a few things:
-not to spend time with people who are not life-giving, to the extent I can choose.
-to protect myself from falling as much as possible. So many people are limited ongoing or even die, from complications from a fall. This meant practical changes like getting rid of throw rugs, random cords, and clutter on the floor. I loved the runner in front of my kitchen sink, but had tripped on it a few times, so it is no more. Sigh. I put an old person rubber mat in the shower because I had slipped a couple of times. I love the shower pan tile, but I want to stay upright more than look at it……🙄
-anything I buy has to be a replacement/upgrade for something already existing, and the former thing goes…..our kids would use our names in vain if they were left with our very full house at the moment, although we are culling and weeding out now.
-to read the best books and enjoy the best art out there. Good writing and good art point to truth.
-to keep my body moving, and sit less.
-to serve others. Always. I believe the greatest joys in life, other than close relationships, are to be found in service to others.
Tina – I loved your post especially the part about complimenting others outright, rather than keeping the thought to yourself. I do the same thing! I turned 70 in December and I agree with so many ….where have the last 20-30 years gone? How quickly I have arrived here!
Regarding skipping… I have been thinking about that for several year. Since I have had both knees replaced due to athletic injuries, I decided to try skipping in the water in the shallow end of the pool. I brought that challenge to the rest of my water aerobics group last summer and we all practiced skipping. Much safer in the pool than on land because it isn’t completely weight bearing in the water. It was a great way to relearn a simple skill without any physical risk. The worst that can happen in the water is if you slip or trip, you might get your hair wet!
Tina,
I understand, I understand! yes, no more putting off. Recent example: I know that many dogs live to be 15 plus. I decided that this is the last reasonable chance to get a puppy. Husband is a fair amount older than I am and not feeling ANY urgency, Hmmmm… but I am not putting off the new puppy.
I also realize that antiques ( a fav. pastime) are not as popular with todays young people so I am much less likely to indulge in them as I know my kids have little interest except for a few things, Times have really changed, The decor or young people has changed. Expensive and straight forward. Not fussy at all.
This gets back to the puppy. I need to outlive a pup so that my kids will not feel forced to take on that responsibility when the “time” comes. So, Tina, if you didn’t already do the English Cream Golden, time is wasting!
This is good, to speak of these “awareness’s”, very, very needed but, DARN, it is depressing! 🙁