Hi everyone, changing things up a bit and posting at night, which I occasionally do. It’s time for another edition of Let’s Talk. I always fill in the text with pretty pictures just because it breaks it up and its always nice to see something pretty:) I have to say, these have kind of become my favorite posts. I love that I can chat about whatever is on my mind and open the floor to hear what you have to say. It’s always so interesting to gain new perspectives.
Today’s topic is something I find fascinating—and I think many of you might relate to it. And for those who don’t, maybe it’ll plant a little seed of thought. Yes, it’s touching on aging (again) but also more about challeneges, how we choose to spend time and how prioritize shift as we get older.
I’ve decided to give myself a daily challenge: every single day, I’m going to do something that either pushes me outside my comfort zone or gets me thinking a little differently. It could be something ridiculously tiny—like trying a new coffee order (tried matcha for the first time a few days ago)—or something a bit more substantial (was contemplating making a decision on something that I normally would have to “sleep” on but jumped in with both feet and didn’t look back).
But once a day, I’m committed to shaking things up, even if it feels slightly terrifying and even if its something really small. I’m looking at this as my own personal growth plan—because who says evolving and taking on new challenges has an age limit? Plus, it keeps life a lot more interesting than just sticking to the same old routine….and one thing I get bored of quickly is routine.
Another big one for me is learning to say NO. I tend to say yes a lot as I want to make everyone happy, be the “fixer” and for that reason, tended to always say yes and push myself (often when i didn’t feel like it). But in the last year or so, I have gotten so much better about saying no. Recognizing my limits, valuing my time (and however I want to spend it) over feeling “obligated” or overly committing myself to things I may not have any interest in. It’s pretty liberating I will admit to be able to do this…I am a work in progress on this front!
Turning 60 has been a truly pivotal and symbolic milestone in ways I wasn’t entirely expecting. In my mind, I guess I thought I’d just…stay in my 50s (or better yet my 40’s) forever! So hitting 60 kind of threw me for a loop, if I’m being perfectly honest—and yes, at the risk of sounding vain, it was a little hard to accept. Especially because I really don’t feel 60. But I also recognize that 60 today is nothing like the 60s of my mother’s generation. People are generally living longer, healthier, fuller lives—and God willing, I’ll be one of them (if I am even half of where my dad is at 85, I will feel like I won the lottery).
One thing I’ve noticed since that birthday is how much I’ve been thinking about time—and how quickly it goes. I find myself looking back on my life: the experiences I’ve had, the places I’ve been fortunate enough to travel, the homes we’ve built, the life we’ve been able to create for our boys, and the dreams I’ve managed to fulfill in my career.
But make no mistake—there’s still plenty left on my bucket list! Some things I feel confident I’ll achieve, while others…well, time will tell. Time is the one thing we can’t control. And it’s not infinite. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself valuing years, days, months—even hours—in a way I never did in my 20s, 30s, or 40s.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how I want to spend the time I have left. I’m craving experiences. I want to travel more—and I don’t want to waste time postponing it. Last year, I set a personal record: I went to Europe three times in one year. For me, that was huge, both because I’m a nervous flyer and because it meant stepping out of my comfort zone. But those three trips were some of the best I’ve ever taken. I felt so fortunate to be able to go—and also incredibly proud of myself for pushing past my fears. The rewards were more than worth it.
So travel has been on my mind a lot lately. There’s still so much I want to see and do. So, hoping for the second half of 2025, I have some fun travel plans in my future! Not to mention, checking things off my bucket list and of course continuing on with my “once a day” doing/trying something new! How about you, does any of this resonate? As always, love to hear from you and what you have to say on the matter. Your turn….
Great heartfelt post! And good reminders to take advantage of this age. I recently turned 60 and feel very much the same way. Thanks for sharing!
And just thought I’d share….Making your Mediterranean Greek salad tonight. It’s a family favorite! ❤️
I, too, turned 60 this year and have always had a hard time saying no as I have my own consulting design business as well as work as a designer in a firm. But everything changed once I became a grandmother for the first time last year with a beautiful grandson! Now spending a couple days a week babysitting him is my first priority and I wouldn’t give it up for anything!
I think you have always been pushing yourself out of your comfort zone – with great success! That’s why you don’t feel 60 – whatever 60 is suppose to feel like. We are more active in our lifestyles and mind than our parents at the same age. I am 67 and the idea of 70 overwhelms me. I do not feel at all like my age – physically or mentally. I continue to push myself too and agree it is good for us. Enjoy this time when you have already done the hard stuff of living and know who you are and what you like. I stopped coloring my hair and am getting use to my new blanc du blanc Irish looks and the hassle-free maintenance. Enjoy and fear not 60!
I understand what you are saying. I had no difficulty turning 60, but I will warn you, turning 70 was REALLY hard for me. I’m 73 now and definitely do not have the energy I had at 60. I also want to travel and have experiences. Life is still very good, but I need to take advantage of it!
I’m 76 and worked until 73 as a designer traveling over seas and cross country on a constant basis, weekly and monthly. I’m blessed to have seen much (good and bad) and feel I have a better eye regarding humanity over all. My husband and I took a few trips in the last couple years and had the luxury to stay much longer since we had no constraints on time. It definitely makes traveling more enjoyable when not on a schedule or time table. My husband is from New Zealand so we’ve spent a great deal of time there.
But honestly this year we are just getting in the car and seeing where it takes us.
Throwing things in a car and not having to go through airline baggage and checking and immigration is fine by me. I’m looking for a slower more comfortable pace at this point. I’ve lost several healthy younger friends lately and that is a constant reminder; each day is a gift.
In 2020 at the height of the pandemic, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although my doctors wanted me to have surgery immediately, the city government wouldn’t allow hospitals to have the normal schedule of surgeries nor could I have anyone with me at my medical appointments; consequently, the cancer progressed and because of complications, I was told that I might not live through the surgery. When I was taken to the operating room and was being put to sleep, the very caring medical staff suggested that I think of where I might like to travel, but I immediately replied, “No, I want to think about my family.” The reply was automatic and not considered. I love to travel and have been fortunate to experience many parts of the world, but my family is clearly my real world. I’m healthy now and will enjoy traveling, but as time is not in our control, I hope to make each day valuable by not rushing and truly finding what God has in store for each moment. fyi: That’s a big aspiration as I’m trying to wind down a highly focused business that I created and have run for nearly 30 years. At the end of my life, I don’t want to only be able to realize that I created a successful business and spent quality time with my family and friends, but that I spent leisurely time with my family and friends when some of the most important moments occur.
Good to hear you are well. You are Truly a very wise woman and hope you live many more years doing what has value. I’ve traveled the world professional and personally since I was a child. I’ve spent so much time away from home that the time has accumulated to well over several years. I absolutely love to travel….but as we are just a few years away from being truly empty nesters (kids in college who return frequently), I dread not eating meals with them or just pondering what we may watch all together on Netflix. We had our children late in life so we’re over 60 and my bucket list has changed….top priority is to live longer and as healthy as possible that dietary, exercise and what I pay other people to do that I can and would have done but don’t wish to spend my time on as time is my most valuable asset. Thank you.
I’m 73 and building a new home. More optimistic than I ever thought I would be. I work harder at staying healthy so as to enjoy whatever time I have remaining.
I think lot about time too. I just turned 70 and am finally an empty nester and have more time for myself and my husband. I have been a life long tennis player and have been playing for over 60 years. I decided to learn something different this year. I am taking golf lessons this summer and while I am terrible, I like being with younger people and learning something new.
Turning 73 next month. I truly cherish times with my family and good friends. I have not hit an age yet where I feel old.
Grandkids definitely keep you young. Truly believe that you should spend time doing what you really want to do. That is a benefit of aging….it is ok to say “No”! My mom just passed at two months shy of 100 living her best life. Cheers to all you aging lovely ladies!
After the initial shock of a birthday with a 6 in front, you will absolutely embrace it. You are triumphing your world. Getting to 60 makes you so grateful for the blessings and you have the ultimate gift in your beautiful grandson, Philip.
Just ENJOY it all and a little ache is just a sign that you are alive and vibrant.
Sickness and deaths have become more of me focusing on life. My age at 68 does not concern me….I’m thankful everyday to be doing well. I live one day at a time just enjoying what I like to do…and always praying. I’ve always been the “yes” person too. I will until I can’t.
You and I are on the same page regarding age and travel. I turn 70 this year and really cramming in my bucket list items. So start now and keep moving. I write you from Maastricht in the Netherlands. Attending a Andre Rieu concert after having completed a 2 week Grand European River cruise (fabulous). Post concert on to Amalfi Coast, home for 3–4 weeks and on to an exploration cruise—Iceland and Greenland. . In May we did a 1 week Burgundy River cruise. At year end (for my actual birthday) we are going Around the World! My recommendation is start now and don’t wait until 70 or a milestone birthday. There is an old saying about travel:
Age 50s: Go! Go!
Age 60s: Go
Age 70s: Slow Go!
Age 80s: No Go!
I live by this mantra.
On my bucket list is returning to Amsterdam for Keukenoff Gardens etc. can you please reply back with a link for your Amsterdam trip blog which inspired me.
Safe travels and enjoy life!
Tina, it seems like only yesterday you turned 50. My, how time flies! I got older right along with you. I am now in my 70s and it seems like I should be in my 60s. I have enjoyed following your blog over the years and furnishing my home with purchases from your spectacular on-line interiors shop. As for travel, I too want to do more of it. Happy travels to you and all of us!
Your post really hit home! Today I go see an Ovarian Cancer Specialist. People see me and say “you certainly don’t look sick”…lol
I am not worried at all. Life is short and I have lived amazing life. I’ve packed in a lot in my 66 years. Traveling, houses etc. But the most important is your family and friends. I have so many people lifting me up in prayer. I still enjoy decorating and friends are always calling me to “help” them with their homes (just got a call last night). Always keep smiling!
Lovely post! I try to Enjoy my life and stop to relish the little moments. If you have people to travel with you are lucky. I find many spouses do not enjoy it. Finding friends or a group to go somewhere with can be a challenge but doable. Live. All the best!
Hi Tina this was such an excellent read. Thank you I am just a little behind you. I am 59 and turning 60 in December.
Funny, somehow saying I’m in my 50s makes me feel very young, but I can understand how entering a new decade might take some getting used to. I think the key is happiness in life. I am blessed to have a good solid family. We live in a beautiful home, we are able to afford nice trips, nice cars, and what most people consider the luxuries in life. I have a job that I love my husband is semi retired and I would say that we have a full and good life. Not to say we don’t have problems or hiccups as anyone does, but overall life is good.
I’ve started exercising for the first time in my life this last year and it has made a huge difference, not only in my appearance, but mostly in my emotional and mental state. It really has done wonders and I plan to continue until I no longer can.
I relate to you when you say that you feel so much younger than you are I feel the same way and when I saw your picture on Instagram, you look like you could be 35 years old. How do you stay so young looking!
I think it’s great that you’re learning to say no I also tend to be a yes person but starting to put myself first in many occasions and happy that I am. There’s so many things. I don’t really feel like going to, but feel obligated too and now I have no problem politely saying no so that is very empowering. I agree.
I really enjoy these post and look forward to your next one
81 checking in!! I do not know “how one is supposed to feel” at this age…but, I STILL wear my western (“Cowboy”) boots, visited Ireland last year, hip replacement next week, ❤️ my kids & grandkiddos, have thee BEST husband one could ask for…I feel BLESSED!! franki
I turned 70 last December (there seem to be many December birthdays among this group) and don’t feel or look it (according to others). I have always exercised which has helped but have steered clear of pickle ball due to two knee replacements from long standing athletic injuries. I enjoy vigorous shallow water aerobics that has made a huge difference in my health and have developed an extensive group of friends through that.
Ten days prior to the Covid shutdown, I brought home my beautiful Cavelier King Charles puppy, “Lady Charlotte”. It must have been divine intervention because walking her around the neighborhood I got to know everyone which also added to my friendships.
I travelled extensively in my 20’s, had my son at 29, divorced in my early 30’s and never remarried, so I spent decades working in corporate sales and raised my son…so a very different experience from my early years in a two income household. Fortunately I was successful, but building a house on my own at age 35 and buying only what I could provide, has made me appreciate the small things in life. I love hearing about the trips and things others can do and live vicariously through all of your experiences. I still travel on occasion, but even if I don’t go anywhere ever again, I love my life, my son, my beautiful home and many wonderful friends.
Since I love to entertain, I have continued to do that through each decade of my life and still enjoy it. Turning 70 has made me far more introspective regarding the number of years I have left and how I will live them. Obviously, family and friends, first, things second and of course good health if key to living hopefully many more years to enjoy them.
Almost 81 traveling and doing..so far a trip to France and Ireland this year,,,I’m slower,but can do what I want,,,planning lots more traveling,,,don’t wait,,,go explore and enjoy🥂
Loved this post! I am 54. I stopped working last year as an attorney and am now pursuing something I have always wanted to do, painting. We take 2 big trips a year, one family and one couple trip. It fills my bucket for adventure!
And on saying no- good for you. I used to be a ridiculous people pleaser, went into therapy over it at 45 and was taught it’s ok to be a little selfish and to put myself first half the time. That’s what I do and as you said it is quite liberating. I say yes to things I want or feel we must do (often family events but not all!) but no to things I am on the fence about or really don’t want to attend. We live one life- lets make them most of it!
Tina, I UNDERSTAND, UNDERSTAND, understand……
When I hit the big 60, it was not that noticeable to me as my considerably older husband was about to retire, My widowed mother was ill, A daughter was just finishing grad school and I had a baby grand from the other daughter that had been born with birth defects requiring many hours of surgery and more surgery and years of PT. There is more STILL more events in that timeframe but not going into all of it.
Cutting to the chase, one morning pretty recently, I woke up and I was turning 7o! 70?? WHAT? how can that be? 70 is when you are “old” right? I remember as a kid wondering how much longer I had with my grandparents when they experienced the 70.
Well, as you say, 70 (or 60) is not our grandparents 70 or even our parents. 60 the same. We look (and feel!) differently now at these milestone birthdays. I have a brand-new grand baby, I REALLY want to experience her growing up years and be there for the older two grands for all those important graduations, recitals, etc,
What you said about not putting things off…. For me, its not the travel(as for you) but other things like biting the bullet and moving MUCH faster on things. The things that you can take more time to think of like in the 50s. I lost a beloved dog in the winter and although it seamed too fast (for me) I took the opportunity to contact a breeder in April, across the country, of the little rare breed, ball of fluff I had been thinking of and researching for years. BTW, I’m the one that has been in “the dog world” and show ring for some time and gave you advice some time back about the English cream Golden 🙂 Not to listen to the nay sayers and go ahead! I’m sure you had many comments about NO NOs on “selective breeding” and telling you to ONLY “rescue” and not buy. I have done both over the years but this time it was a search out and buy. This little pup has really changed things up here as there have been NO puppies in many, many years (I forgot how much it is like having a newborn in your house LOL) I have rarely thought much about my age since the cross country flight nanny put her in my arms! Try it Tina! So much more spring in my step now (and I was reasonably fit and “springy” before anyway!) I think a puppy can “remove” 15 years!
Yes, enjoy every day, and do what your heart tells you whatever that might be. My grandmother, at 91, told me that she still felt 25 inside. I didn’t “get it” at the time but as I have aged and am now nearly 77, I “get it!”:-)
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Hi everyone, changing things up a bit and posting at night, which I occasionally do. It’s time for another edition of Let’s Talk. I always fill in the text with pretty pictures just because it breaks it up and its always nice to see something pretty:) I have to say, these have kind of become my favorite posts. I love that I can chat about whatever is on my mind and open the floor to hear what you have to say. It’s always so interesting to gain new perspectives.
Today’s topic is something I find fascinating—and I think many of you might relate to it. And for those who don’t, maybe it’ll plant a little seed of thought. Yes, it’s touching on aging (again) but also more about challeneges, how we choose to spend time and how prioritize shift as we get older.
I’ve decided to give myself a daily challenge: every single day, I’m going to do something that either pushes me outside my comfort zone or gets me thinking a little differently. It could be something ridiculously tiny—like trying a new coffee order (tried matcha for the first time a few days ago)—or something a bit more substantial (was contemplating making a decision on something that I normally would have to “sleep” on but jumped in with both feet and didn’t look back).
But once a day, I’m committed to shaking things up, even if it feels slightly terrifying and even if its something really small. I’m looking at this as my own personal growth plan—because who says evolving and taking on new challenges has an age limit? Plus, it keeps life a lot more interesting than just sticking to the same old routine….and one thing I get bored of quickly is routine.
Another big one for me is learning to say NO. I tend to say yes a lot as I want to make everyone happy, be the “fixer” and for that reason, tended to always say yes and push myself (often when i didn’t feel like it). But in the last year or so, I have gotten so much better about saying no. Recognizing my limits, valuing my time (and however I want to spend it) over feeling “obligated” or overly committing myself to things I may not have any interest in. It’s pretty liberating I will admit to be able to do this…I am a work in progress on this front!
Turning 60 has been a truly pivotal and symbolic milestone in ways I wasn’t entirely expecting. In my mind, I guess I thought I’d just…stay in my 50s (or better yet my 40’s) forever! So hitting 60 kind of threw me for a loop, if I’m being perfectly honest—and yes, at the risk of sounding vain, it was a little hard to accept. Especially because I really don’t feel 60. But I also recognize that 60 today is nothing like the 60s of my mother’s generation. People are generally living longer, healthier, fuller lives—and God willing, I’ll be one of them (if I am even half of where my dad is at 85, I will feel like I won the lottery).
One thing I’ve noticed since that birthday is how much I’ve been thinking about time—and how quickly it goes. I find myself looking back on my life: the experiences I’ve had, the places I’ve been fortunate enough to travel, the homes we’ve built, the life we’ve been able to create for our boys, and the dreams I’ve managed to fulfill in my career.
But make no mistake—there’s still plenty left on my bucket list! Some things I feel confident I’ll achieve, while others…well, time will tell. Time is the one thing we can’t control. And it’s not infinite. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself valuing years, days, months—even hours—in a way I never did in my 20s, 30s, or 40s.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how I want to spend the time I have left. I’m craving experiences. I want to travel more—and I don’t want to waste time postponing it. Last year, I set a personal record: I went to Europe three times in one year. For me, that was huge, both because I’m a nervous flyer and because it meant stepping out of my comfort zone. But those three trips were some of the best I’ve ever taken. I felt so fortunate to be able to go—and also incredibly proud of myself for pushing past my fears. The rewards were more than worth it.
So travel has been on my mind a lot lately. There’s still so much I want to see and do. So, hoping for the second half of 2025, I have some fun travel plans in my future! Not to mention, checking things off my bucket list and of course continuing on with my “once a day” doing/trying something new! How about you, does any of this resonate? As always, love to hear from you and what you have to say on the matter. Your turn….
Great heartfelt post! And good reminders to take advantage of this age. I recently turned 60 and feel very much the same way. Thanks for sharing!
And just thought I’d share….Making your Mediterranean Greek salad tonight. It’s a family favorite! ❤️
I, too, turned 60 this year and have always had a hard time saying no as I have my own consulting design business as well as work as a designer in a firm. But everything changed once I became a grandmother for the first time last year with a beautiful grandson! Now spending a couple days a week babysitting him is my first priority and I wouldn’t give it up for anything!
I think you have always been pushing yourself out of your comfort zone – with great success! That’s why you don’t feel 60 – whatever 60 is suppose to feel like. We are more active in our lifestyles and mind than our parents at the same age. I am 67 and the idea of 70 overwhelms me. I do not feel at all like my age – physically or mentally. I continue to push myself too and agree it is good for us. Enjoy this time when you have already done the hard stuff of living and know who you are and what you like. I stopped coloring my hair and am getting use to my new blanc du blanc Irish looks and the hassle-free maintenance. Enjoy and fear not 60!
I understand what you are saying. I had no difficulty turning 60, but I will warn you, turning 70 was REALLY hard for me. I’m 73 now and definitely do not have the energy I had at 60. I also want to travel and have experiences. Life is still very good, but I need to take advantage of it!
I’m 76 and worked until 73 as a designer traveling over seas and cross country on a constant basis, weekly and monthly. I’m blessed to have seen much (good and bad) and feel I have a better eye regarding humanity over all. My husband and I took a few trips in the last couple years and had the luxury to stay much longer since we had no constraints on time. It definitely makes traveling more enjoyable when not on a schedule or time table. My husband is from New Zealand so we’ve spent a great deal of time there.
But honestly this year we are just getting in the car and seeing where it takes us.
Throwing things in a car and not having to go through airline baggage and checking and immigration is fine by me. I’m looking for a slower more comfortable pace at this point. I’ve lost several healthy younger friends lately and that is a constant reminder; each day is a gift.
In 2020 at the height of the pandemic, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although my doctors wanted me to have surgery immediately, the city government wouldn’t allow hospitals to have the normal schedule of surgeries nor could I have anyone with me at my medical appointments; consequently, the cancer progressed and because of complications, I was told that I might not live through the surgery. When I was taken to the operating room and was being put to sleep, the very caring medical staff suggested that I think of where I might like to travel, but I immediately replied, “No, I want to think about my family.” The reply was automatic and not considered. I love to travel and have been fortunate to experience many parts of the world, but my family is clearly my real world. I’m healthy now and will enjoy traveling, but as time is not in our control, I hope to make each day valuable by not rushing and truly finding what God has in store for each moment. fyi: That’s a big aspiration as I’m trying to wind down a highly focused business that I created and have run for nearly 30 years. At the end of my life, I don’t want to only be able to realize that I created a successful business and spent quality time with my family and friends, but that I spent leisurely time with my family and friends when some of the most important moments occur.
Good to hear you are well. You are Truly a very wise woman and hope you live many more years doing what has value. I’ve traveled the world professional and personally since I was a child. I’ve spent so much time away from home that the time has accumulated to well over several years. I absolutely love to travel….but as we are just a few years away from being truly empty nesters (kids in college who return frequently), I dread not eating meals with them or just pondering what we may watch all together on Netflix. We had our children late in life so we’re over 60 and my bucket list has changed….top priority is to live longer and as healthy as possible that dietary, exercise and what I pay other people to do that I can and would have done but don’t wish to spend my time on as time is my most valuable asset. Thank you.
Travel and new experiences are great but friendships are SOmmuch more important. And if you can do both, all the better!
I’m 73 and building a new home. More optimistic than I ever thought I would be. I work harder at staying healthy so as to enjoy whatever time I have remaining.
I think lot about time too. I just turned 70 and am finally an empty nester and have more time for myself and my husband. I have been a life long tennis player and have been playing for over 60 years. I decided to learn something different this year. I am taking golf lessons this summer and while I am terrible, I like being with younger people and learning something new.
Turning 73 next month. I truly cherish times with my family and good friends. I have not hit an age yet where I feel old.
Grandkids definitely keep you young. Truly believe that you should spend time doing what you really want to do. That is a benefit of aging….it is ok to say “No”! My mom just passed at two months shy of 100 living her best life. Cheers to all you aging lovely ladies!
After the initial shock of a birthday with a 6 in front, you will absolutely embrace it. You are triumphing your world. Getting to 60 makes you so grateful for the blessings and you have the ultimate gift in your beautiful grandson, Philip.
Just ENJOY it all and a little ache is just a sign that you are alive and vibrant.
I could have written this myself. I am 61 and it is hitting me the same.
Sickness and deaths have become more of me focusing on life. My age at 68 does not concern me….I’m thankful everyday to be doing well. I live one day at a time just enjoying what I like to do…and always praying. I’ve always been the “yes” person too. I will until I can’t.
You and I are on the same page regarding age and travel. I turn 70 this year and really cramming in my bucket list items. So start now and keep moving. I write you from Maastricht in the Netherlands. Attending a Andre Rieu concert after having completed a 2 week Grand European River cruise (fabulous). Post concert on to Amalfi Coast, home for 3–4 weeks and on to an exploration cruise—Iceland and Greenland. . In May we did a 1 week Burgundy River cruise. At year end (for my actual birthday) we are going Around the World! My recommendation is start now and don’t wait until 70 or a milestone birthday. There is an old saying about travel:
Age 50s: Go! Go!
Age 60s: Go
Age 70s: Slow Go!
Age 80s: No Go!
I live by this mantra.
On my bucket list is returning to Amsterdam for Keukenoff Gardens etc. can you please reply back with a link for your Amsterdam trip blog which inspired me.
Safe travels and enjoy life!
Tina, it seems like only yesterday you turned 50. My, how time flies! I got older right along with you. I am now in my 70s and it seems like I should be in my 60s. I have enjoyed following your blog over the years and furnishing my home with purchases from your spectacular on-line interiors shop. As for travel, I too want to do more of it. Happy travels to you and all of us!
Your post really hit home! Today I go see an Ovarian Cancer Specialist. People see me and say “you certainly don’t look sick”…lol
I am not worried at all. Life is short and I have lived amazing life. I’ve packed in a lot in my 66 years. Traveling, houses etc. But the most important is your family and friends. I have so many people lifting me up in prayer. I still enjoy decorating and friends are always calling me to “help” them with their homes (just got a call last night). Always keep smiling!
Lovely post! I try to Enjoy my life and stop to relish the little moments. If you have people to travel with you are lucky. I find many spouses do not enjoy it. Finding friends or a group to go somewhere with can be a challenge but doable. Live. All the best!
I relate to everything you said. Wait un til your 70! I am and I don’t feel it but that’s when it all hit me. TIME is key. Thank you
Hi Tina this was such an excellent read. Thank you I am just a little behind you. I am 59 and turning 60 in December.
Funny, somehow saying I’m in my 50s makes me feel very young, but I can understand how entering a new decade might take some getting used to. I think the key is happiness in life. I am blessed to have a good solid family. We live in a beautiful home, we are able to afford nice trips, nice cars, and what most people consider the luxuries in life. I have a job that I love my husband is semi retired and I would say that we have a full and good life. Not to say we don’t have problems or hiccups as anyone does, but overall life is good.
I’ve started exercising for the first time in my life this last year and it has made a huge difference, not only in my appearance, but mostly in my emotional and mental state. It really has done wonders and I plan to continue until I no longer can.
I relate to you when you say that you feel so much younger than you are I feel the same way and when I saw your picture on Instagram, you look like you could be 35 years old. How do you stay so young looking!
I think it’s great that you’re learning to say no I also tend to be a yes person but starting to put myself first in many occasions and happy that I am. There’s so many things. I don’t really feel like going to, but feel obligated too and now I have no problem politely saying no so that is very empowering. I agree.
I really enjoy these post and look forward to your next one
81 checking in!! I do not know “how one is supposed to feel” at this age…but, I STILL wear my western (“Cowboy”) boots, visited Ireland last year, hip replacement next week, ❤️ my kids & grandkiddos, have thee BEST husband one could ask for…I feel BLESSED!! franki
I turned 70 last December (there seem to be many December birthdays among this group) and don’t feel or look it (according to others). I have always exercised which has helped but have steered clear of pickle ball due to two knee replacements from long standing athletic injuries. I enjoy vigorous shallow water aerobics that has made a huge difference in my health and have developed an extensive group of friends through that.
Ten days prior to the Covid shutdown, I brought home my beautiful Cavelier King Charles puppy, “Lady Charlotte”. It must have been divine intervention because walking her around the neighborhood I got to know everyone which also added to my friendships.
I travelled extensively in my 20’s, had my son at 29, divorced in my early 30’s and never remarried, so I spent decades working in corporate sales and raised my son…so a very different experience from my early years in a two income household. Fortunately I was successful, but building a house on my own at age 35 and buying only what I could provide, has made me appreciate the small things in life. I love hearing about the trips and things others can do and live vicariously through all of your experiences. I still travel on occasion, but even if I don’t go anywhere ever again, I love my life, my son, my beautiful home and many wonderful friends.
Since I love to entertain, I have continued to do that through each decade of my life and still enjoy it. Turning 70 has made me far more introspective regarding the number of years I have left and how I will live them. Obviously, family and friends, first, things second and of course good health if key to living hopefully many more years to enjoy them.
Almost 81 traveling and doing..so far a trip to France and Ireland this year,,,I’m slower,but can do what I want,,,planning lots more traveling,,,don’t wait,,,go explore and enjoy🥂
Loved this post! I am 54. I stopped working last year as an attorney and am now pursuing something I have always wanted to do, painting. We take 2 big trips a year, one family and one couple trip. It fills my bucket for adventure!
And on saying no- good for you. I used to be a ridiculous people pleaser, went into therapy over it at 45 and was taught it’s ok to be a little selfish and to put myself first half the time. That’s what I do and as you said it is quite liberating. I say yes to things I want or feel we must do (often family events but not all!) but no to things I am on the fence about or really don’t want to attend. We live one life- lets make them most of it!
Tina, I UNDERSTAND, UNDERSTAND, understand……
When I hit the big 60, it was not that noticeable to me as my considerably older husband was about to retire, My widowed mother was ill, A daughter was just finishing grad school and I had a baby grand from the other daughter that had been born with birth defects requiring many hours of surgery and more surgery and years of PT. There is more STILL more events in that timeframe but not going into all of it.
Cutting to the chase, one morning pretty recently, I woke up and I was turning 7o! 70?? WHAT? how can that be? 70 is when you are “old” right? I remember as a kid wondering how much longer I had with my grandparents when they experienced the 70.
Well, as you say, 70 (or 60) is not our grandparents 70 or even our parents. 60 the same. We look (and feel!) differently now at these milestone birthdays. I have a brand-new grand baby, I REALLY want to experience her growing up years and be there for the older two grands for all those important graduations, recitals, etc,
What you said about not putting things off…. For me, its not the travel(as for you) but other things like biting the bullet and moving MUCH faster on things. The things that you can take more time to think of like in the 50s. I lost a beloved dog in the winter and although it seamed too fast (for me) I took the opportunity to contact a breeder in April, across the country, of the little rare breed, ball of fluff I had been thinking of and researching for years. BTW, I’m the one that has been in “the dog world” and show ring for some time and gave you advice some time back about the English cream Golden 🙂 Not to listen to the nay sayers and go ahead! I’m sure you had many comments about NO NOs on “selective breeding” and telling you to ONLY “rescue” and not buy. I have done both over the years but this time it was a search out and buy. This little pup has really changed things up here as there have been NO puppies in many, many years (I forgot how much it is like having a newborn in your house LOL) I have rarely thought much about my age since the cross country flight nanny put her in my arms! Try it Tina! So much more spring in my step now (and I was reasonably fit and “springy” before anyway!) I think a puppy can “remove” 15 years!
Yes, enjoy every day, and do what your heart tells you whatever that might be. My grandmother, at 91, told me that she still felt 25 inside. I didn’t “get it” at the time but as I have aged and am now nearly 77, I “get it!”:-)