Hi. Grandma Trisha here. I’m just back from visiting grand kids in Oregon and still full of the big, soft heart I felt every time I got called “Grandma”. Cuz that’s who I am now. I’m even growing out my grey silver hair, but then there’s always that problem with different colored roots:
Oh wait, that’s grass that grew from seed under a pipe. That’s why it’s white at the base.
Here’s my hair:
Seems to me that I can either fight my advancing age, or celebrate this new phase of life that Jim and I have entered, somewhere around our 70th birthday last fall. I’m choosing celebration.
Here’s the good news for those of us who just turned 70: We’re still alive. As a biologist (and a recent reader of the obituaries page), I’d like to note that that’s a great accomplishment. Here’s the bad news: The years we have left to live our life as we do now are limited. Very limited. How many years can Jim and I walk up and down the steep hill behind our house? Catch and hold sheep when they need worming? Walk the dogs through snow and ice in the woods? Ten years, til we are 80? Holy god, 10 years doesn’t sound very long now, does it? But wait, there’s more good news: Facing a limited future is liberating. If we don’t do the things we’ve always wanted to do now, when will we do them?
In spite of feeling stunned by a deeper acknowledgement of my mortality (not to mention all the physical signs of aging–good grief), I also feel a sense of lightness. Wheeeee! What if I spent less time working and more time playing with my own dogs? What if I spent less time traveling and more time gardening, cooking, and seeing friends? And what if. . . wait for it . . . I tried my hand at writing fiction?
That’s what I wanted to do over 10 years ago, when I called my agent and an editor at a big publishing house and threw out the idea of writing fiction. They both strongly suggested that I reconsider. “Oh, Trisha, the fiction market is so competitive. It’s simply impossible to get into.” “Why don’t you write a memoir?” said my editor friend. “No, I have no interest in that,” I said. Yeah, I know–a strange start to writing The Education of Will.
But now, at this age, who cares if a publisher wants to take my stories or not? I’m going to try, fully aware that writing fiction is HARD (yeah, I’m sort of yelling). Really it is. But I’m going to start playing with it, and who knows what will come out of it.
Of course, this means I’m going to do less of other things. You’ve no doubt noticed that I’ve slowed down already in some ways. Not doing any more seminars (last one is on February 1st at Oakland University outside of Detroit, but note I’m speaking in the morning, not the afternoon). Not seeing clients. Much quieter on Facebook and Twitter. The fact is that I needed a break, after giving about 45 speeches about sexual assault and the effects of trauma in people and dogs since my book came out. It was an honor to do so, and I don’t say that lightly. I will forever be grateful to the thousands people who listened with open hearts, and who had the courage to tell me how much The Education of Will meant to them personally.
But there is a cost to talking about one’s own traumas, and the process of healing from them. So forgive me my moment of refreshment, but if you will, continue with me on my journey into this different phase of life. The one thing I haven’t wanted to give up is this blog–it’s the professional community to which I feel the strongest of ties. And I love doing podcasts (talking to fascinating people from my own desk, no travel, bad hair… what’s not to like?) and speaking at libraries and smaller groups. That will start up again in late summer.
I’d love to tell you a little about the fiction book that I’m thinking of writing, but writers wiser than I have advised me to hold my story close to my heart until it is more fully formed. I’ll just say this: I think you’ll like the plot, if I can learn enough to write it well enough. And, of course, there will be dogs. I know, I’m teasing you. Sorry.
Here’s the newly remodeled study in which I’ll be writing. Cozy, and expansive at the same time. My desk is on the right, Jim’s is on the left out of the picture.
And here’s my 2019 “Not-Resolutions” (since no one keeps resolutions):
*** Dedicate a few hours three times a week to fiction writing. I’ll try this for 3 months and see how it’s going.
*** On Friday mornings, write some letters and postcards to friends and family. Don’t you love getting real mail?
*** Keep up with Maggie’s PT exercises every week. (More on this later; I just made big decision not to do arthroscopic surgery on her. I’ll write more about this sometime this month, because I think so many of us are or have had to deal with difficult decisions regarding the medical care of our dogs.)
*** Take as much time as I need to stay strong and healthy as I can be.
What about you? Any “non-resolutions” or hopes for 2019?
MEANWHILE, back on the farm: Just back from being Grandma to two amazing grandchildren, Taylor (11) and Quinne (4). Played Candy Land and Chutes & Ladders. Saw Mary Poppins (loved it, tho’ terrible beginning–just ignore it and be patient). Went riding with Taylor on a retired dressage horse, Lottie, thanks to patient and generous mom, Rachel. My legs were sore for a week, but it was worth that and so much more.
Ate steak and Dungeness crab for New Year’s dinner thanks to step-son Shane. Yum.
But now it’s back to reality, in which I need to lose the 5 pounds I’ve gained over the holidays, get back into all my exercise routines, jump back into work and being a committed, active citizen and crazy-in-love-with-my-dogs animal behaviorist. I’m ready.
We came home to a lovely bit of snow:
But now it’s raining and beyond yucky outside. I’ll spare you the photos of mud. But here’s another one of the BCs the morning after we got home. I think they like snow as much as I do.
Looking forward to hearing what you are anticipating in 2019!
lak says
I let my hair go natural (white) over a year ago, since that time I have had so many women tell me how nice they think it is, and then say they wish they could do it. I did not deal with roots, just had my head bleached, toner applied, and cut super short, grew in fabulously.
I too, like getting older. Can’t wait to officially retire (3 years until part time, additional 2 years part time) then done. Hope to volunteer fostering dogs once officially retired.
New Years goals, to lose weight and keep it off, just 12#, do what I can to stay healthy. Enjoy my dog, family, friends, and neighbors. Hope to see you at Oakland University in February.
LisaW says
I’ve been silver-haired since my forties and now there is a very similar silver color that hipsters are sporting. I actually like my hair color, and yes, some of that is from outside reinforcement. People stop me in grocery stores and comment on my hair. It’s flattering (the comments not the hair). Recently I used Dame Judi Dench as a model and got my hair cropped, and I love it. My haircut has been christened “The Dame” by my hairstylist. And, I’m surprisingly very okay using Judi as a model and not Jennifer Lawrence (or anyone else under 40). Lots of new possibilities with your new hair. Can’t wait to see what you do.
I have a dear friend that still writes letters, and I hop with joy when I get one in the mail. She is a wonderful writer, and I treasure her letters and notes.
Your study looks very cozy and a perfect place to write and ponder. You may be the writer that leads me back to fiction. I abandoned the genre years ago when I started reading John McPhee and never looked back. The world of non-fiction was so enthralling and true! Good luck getting started, that seems to be the hard part.
We’ve been through some facing mortality lessons in the past year, and my only hope for this year is we move through what we’ve learned with grace and a bit more wisdom. We have a new-to-us house, new community, new job for me, new landscape for the dogs, and new routines for my SO. Now we can settle down a bit and take a breath.
I’m so looking forward to reading more about your medical decisions for Maggie – a subject near and dear to my heart.
Frances says
Another one here who gave up hair colouring some years ago. It was an excellent decision – hair has turned a good clear silver and it is such a saving in time and money. And as one who accidentally retired at 50 (it was meant to be a sabbatical, but stuff happened…) I cannot recommend it highly enough – the bliss of waking up each morning with a whole day ahead to do as you please, after a night sleeping rather than worrying about work problems!
Your study looks the perfect space for new beginnings. All good wishes for your novel, and for a time of peace and recovery.
Chris Wells says
Happy New Year. We are still here, that in itself is an accomplishment. I always felt that coloring my hair was too much work and way too expensive to have done professionally , so I opted years ago to just let it go. Now I have highlights by God! This is a big year for me, my first year of retirement! I am still trying to find my new normal, but I am definitely loving it!! I am a nester by nature, so I love being home!
I glad you are not giving up the blog, I so look forward to them and all the commenters! Well here is to 2019…and off we go!
Lainy Young says
Believe me when I say,’ if you write it, they (we) will read it’. Can’t wait to read whatever you write. I’ve never been sorry to live in upstate NY except I’ve never made it to any of your seminars. I just turned 65 and the hair that has been pepper with a dash of salt for so many years has def gone to salt with a sprinklings of pepper☺️It’s a wonderful time of life with the right attitude! I call it, Me Time, it’s all about me and my dogs and what makes us happy. I’ve read everything you have written and can’t wait for the next one! Hug yourself, and keep writing!❤️🐾🐾
Elizabeth Dougherty says
Bravo! I discovered your site when we were having behavior difficulties with our puppy, and now love reading it just because. My mom, at 73, just retired from her job as a full-time pastor, which is really more a complete existence than a job. She’s figuring out what she needs to do to keep her mind and body active and healthy, her definition of retirement is just moving on to the next challenge.
Also love your take on the pursuit of fiction writing. I just published my first novel in June. It’s a long road, but so gratifying when you hold a book in your hand. I’m sure you know that feeling with books already published, but it’s especially sweet when a project even more challenging becomes something real, something physical. Best of luck to you!!
Mary Ellen H says
I’m so glad that you are not retiring your blog. I look forward to it every week and when I see it in my inbox, I save it for “last”, just so I can relish it.
Erin says
Will your last seminar be live on Facebook? I really enjoyed being able to hear you speak as i dont have the means to follow you around like a Trisha groupie, but you know all of us would if we could! My not resolutions this year are to give more and to be on time! Happy New Year amd I hope you keep your fiction resolution because I cant wait to read it!
Adrienne K. says
Waking up one day and realizing I was actually 73 was quite shocking. How did I get here so quickly? Then I discovered there are some really good things about maturing; like realizing that one has garnered some wisdom, patience, sense of humor (especially about self), compassion towards others and admiration to those who have paved the way for me and my duty to give back to others in my 12 Step Program. My four year old moyen poodle Zasu is a constant companion. I can spend as much time with her as I like and she needs; like romping in the snow this morning on our first walk of the day. I embrace the things I love and let go of the things and noise that are irritating. I don’t have time for that. Mostly I am grateful for all the gifts and love that are a part of my everyday life. I retired in 2004 not because I wanted to but because my company went out of business. That too was a blessing. Now I must confess that so far I have not embraced the idea of letting my hair go au natural. This comes from one who back in the eighties had dyed purple hair. Thankfully I worked in New York City and they “understood”. It was fabulous.
Christine Johnson says
Growing my hair out is one of my New Years thoughts too. Just need to keep the bangs trimmed but otherwise, let it grow!
My new year is a year of firsts. I lost my beloved husband to an extremely aggressive cancer in October. We’re not to close to 70 so it was a shock. 15 months from diagnosis to death, all of that care-taking has taken its toll.
Dogs are a comfort, as are friends and family. I’m glad to be able to continue to read your blog, it’s been a welcome and thoughtful diversion from my day to day.
Kathy Rost says
I live in Oregon. When your new book is done, include Oregon on your book signing tour. Would love to meet you. Love reading your stories. So glad you are continuing your blog. Happy New Year. My sister and I agreed that we will color our hair until we are 80. Maybe I won’t wait that long.
Rra104 says
I’ve given up coloring my hair (except for pink highlights once in a while because that’s fun) and am just going to let it go grey on its own terms. I’m tired of fighting and plucking and all the other nonsense involved, and hey, a lot of women look really good with silver hair!
Other not-exactly resolutions:
1) I joined Noom (an app) to work on portion control and healthy eating, as I’d basically given up and my weight was ballooning. Lost 3 lbs. the first week simply by measuring and logging my portions (no more filling the bowl to the brim with ice cream, but I still get some!) and putting my step counter back on my wrist. This tells me that my portions were totally out of control. My husband is being supportive, which really helps, because he’s a fantastic cook!
2) Train my little 4 month-puppy to get him really ready for his conformation debut in March. I want this little guy to be super-confident and not (too) overwhelmed.
3) Train my giant puppy (1.5 yrs old) in multiple aspects – conformation, heeling, beginner agility, nosework, etc. He’s kind of been neglected due to my severe back pain that’s persisted for about forever, but I recently had a treatment that has really reduced the pain and I’m optimistic for the future. I love this boy and he really needs more “mommy time.”
4) Continue to take improved care of myself. Pain control, exercise to tolerance, improved eating habits, quality sleep, etc. are all part of it. When I have a bad day and can’t get much done, forgive myself that the house is a mess because no one has died from mail and other papers on the table or a dirty bathroom sink!
Cris Welisch says
Dear Trisha, Happy New Year! I smile whenever I see your email come up in me email. I too relish it, deleting all the relentless junk and saving it to enjoy reading when I can take my time. You and how you experience life comes right out of the words; joy, disappointment, surprise at all the things in your life, including the dogs and nature. I love it. I end up with reflection upon my life and memories of times and places I might of forgotten. You are a wonderful writer. I’m thrilled you will try your hand at fiction! Can’t wait to see it come out one day!
Good for you for going au natural with your hair. I have never dyed mine and feel the color is representative of the wisdom and understanding about life at this age. I’m 60, but was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 3 years ago. Learning how to appreciate life and do the things I love; creating critters in ceramics and volunteering at my local humane society, working with dogs. I don’t have time for things that don’t make me happy. My non-resolution is to be healthier through walking and eating more healthy.
Glad you will continue to blog. Cheers! Cris
Barb Stanek says
Well, I have to tell you the unexpected on my end. When you said that you were staying with the blog, my eyes spontaneously teared up! I am very glad to have your posts to look forward to and relish. I just didn’t realize how much I looked forward to them!
As 71 year old, I can tell you that I am faced with some of the same wonderful challenges. Who knew we’d live this long! And now what? Figuring out the best path to being a contributing member of the country, state, and my local community is one thing. What about the dogs?
I have decided that I want to have one more puppy. I would like to continue the training work that I do with my dogs. Working dogs helps me stay in some kind of physical shape as well as being a reason to stay in shape.
As far as teaching others to work with their dogs, I can’t see as far as I’d like to down that path. Perhaps I will start again and see where it leads. The good news is I’m still here to take the walk.
Happy New Year to all!
Jann Becker says
I hadn’t colored my hair for years–sort of patchy pewter effect, not awful. Then I had cataract surgery last spring, so almost no more glasses (occasional readers.) In June I started a total replacement of old dental work so my teeth look better than they ever did…so to enhance the transformation I went blond over Labor Day, bleaching the pepper instead of dyeing the salt. Definitely the easiest of the 3.
Trisha says
Aww geez, Barb, don’t get me teared up too! Thanks though for your support, makes me all wussy inside. One more puppy? Whooo hooo, you go girl!
Trisha says
Cris, thanks SO much for the support! So glad you enjoy the blog, and yay yay yay for you for responding to your diagnosis with such a positive attitude. Here’s to doing what you love.
Trisha says
Let’s hear it for pink hair. Or purple. How cool is it anyway that we live in a world in which we can do that? I’m considering some crazy colors too once my hair goes all the way out. Why not?
Trisha says
Don’t do it til you’re ready, but I can tell you that I absolutely ADORE my new hair. Only downside is I don’t have time now at the hair salon to read trashy magazines. (That I would never buy, but pick up in an instant in a waiting room.)
Trisha says
Oh god, Christine, I am so sorry. This reminds me of “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” as Mary Oliver wrote. Every day, every day only is all we have. I think I need to go and hug Jim. Hugs to you too over cyberspace.
Trisha says
It is a shock, isn’t it! A good one is so many ways if we are lucky enough to be healthy. I am now spending a ridiculous amount of time (and no small amount of $) staying healthy. Pilattes 2x a week. (There’s a sign at my studio that says “Oh! I thought you meant Pie and Lattes” that makes me laugh every time I see it.) Meditation group once a week and daily practice. Lots of walks with dogs. Going to try Tai Chi out for a while. And more fun, less stress. Adrienee–brave you for going purple in the 80’s!
Trisha says
Sorry Erin, no plans for this to be on Facebook. But yay for you for your not-resolutions!
Trisha says
Music to my ears Mary Ellen!
Charisse Andrews says
You wrote about so many of my thoughts! And believe it or not, we are thinking of building an office addition just for me so I can write more, and so I concentrate better, away from the dogs…..at least some of the time. Having a dedicated space helps immeasurably. Go for it Tricia, I just know you can do it, and do it very well. And what a wonderful gift for your grandchildren to have….a book by you. Best to you in this New Year.
Margo says
WONDERFUL!!! (yelling…) How exciting, that you’ll write fition, excellent! Would love to hear more as you go along. Your study looks very cozy and inviting! The Education of Will is so captivating… so that must be a good start, right?
My husband and I are planning some renovations and have agreed that anything we do will be geared towards being able to stay on our little farm as long as possible (I’m almost 60, he is 63…time is zooming along…).
I also would love to hear more about difficult health decisions in regards to our dogs.
Congratulations on your new hair, “Grandma”!!
Alee Karpf says
Loved new book though very painful at times both in empathy for W and resonating my old traumas with yours. Thank you for your authenticity. I’d like to be part of your blog community but never did it before. Do I just sign up here and press SUBSCRIBE?
soyoung says
we will love to read any book you publish, fiction or not! it sounds like a very exciting time for you and your family, and trying new things is what keeps us sharp! if fiction is calling to you, we are all the richer for it!
my not-resolution is to do more self-care, and not feel guilty about it. for us that means more trips to the mountains.
i say own your silver! we’ve earned them! :0)
i had stray silver in my hair even as a teen, but after years of coloring and cropped boy cuts, i finally let my silver grow out about 3 years ago–it’s about 40% silver/60%black. it’s now practically to my waist…and i love it. i am 45 now and it was so liberating–no worries about roots, coloring, etc…no more trying to impress anyone –i mean, my flattie paco could care less what color my hair is, hehe–just feeling comfortable in my own skin and with being middle aged. a few friends felt like i had “let myself go” and told me i should make more of an effort to look young, but more often than not, women have stopped me on the streets and in the supermarkets to say they are inspired to let their silver grow in, too! i think aging can be beautiful–i had photos of linda rodin on my refrigerator for whenever i was tempted to color again. i think i’d rather look like a fantastic and energetic 45 year old, than a tired, worn down 29 year old!
we love this community you’ve created here! happy new year to you all!
JOAN L LINDBERG says
Just ordered your book, looking forward to your next one. I, too, just got into my 70’s but my health hasn’t remained as steady as yours. My hair turned more silver in the past years but now I’m thinking of dying it pink! I figure it’ll match my blushing (rosacea) face and maybe the root will just blend in with my scalp?
When our collie rescue group first started (Minnesota Wisconsin Collie Rescue) back in 2001, a friend and I were thinking of writing a children’s book about one of our early intakes. Goldie came to our group at the age of 12 after his 90+ year mom fell down the stairs and ended up in a nursing home. She was at the bottom of her basement stairs for a couple days and Goldie stayed right next to her the entire time. We never gained momentum on the project, but the writer titled it “Good as Goldie”. Just a thought, maybe you could start with a children’s book of stories about the dogs in your past and present. It wouldn’t be complete fiction, but you could embellish the stories?
Christine Weber says
No question how old we are, if we are still curious about any subject, it keeps the heart young!
I wish you all only the very best in this 2019!
Barbara says
Good for you! I stopped coloring my hair four years ago when I retired from a job near my sister-in-law’s hair salon. I decided not to drive that far even for a great discount. I’m now 71 and while it’s not silver, my hair color is no longer mousy.
I so agree on thinking about how to best use the time we have left. Does taking a nap fit in there? I have three German Shepherd Dogs, the oldest age 11, the youngest age 3, and while I love them to pieces it is getting more challenging to take care of so many big dogs. I must pace myself. I don’t try to bathe more than one dog on any day. I home-prepare their raw meals and it is a huge task, but I believe in it so much I can’t go back to kibble. Two dogs are still in training and trialing although I have given up tracking for the much less physically demanding but still fun K-9 Nose Work. Right now I am dealing with the winter blues. It is dark and dreary in the Pacific NW. Despite all the work, its hard to imagine life without my lovely dogs. I may be 80 by the time I lose my youngest. No more GSD’s in my future, so probably no more dogs. Oh, geez, Barbara, cheer up! Get outside and play with them right now!
Abby says
I applaud you for taking time to do the things you want. Self publishing is freeing in and of itself 🙂 Can’t wait to see where your fiction work will take us all. I’m overjoyed that saying no to surgery for my pup worked out. I’m glad people like you are learning the other options available. I’ve noticed we seem to be in a place where we think surgery can fix everything.
Warms Wags for 2019
Joyce Loebig says
A few years ago I started creating a yearly “quit list” instead of making resolutions. It was much more effective. My list usually includes things to help move toward living my life more proactively vs. reactively. I’m also pleased to see your blog continue, as I also look forward to it. Happy New Year!
Elizabeth says
Love your not-resolutions! I’ve decided to accept my love of crafting and stop seeing it as wasting time (a lifelong legacy from my late father who taught us that anything other than academic/intellectual pursuits was trivial and silly). Jigsaw puzzles on the scroll saw, knitting, decorative painting… I started letting my hair go silver after turning 60 last year – I would have done so earlier but my husband didn’t want me to. I realized he looked fine with silver hair and quietly started just having lowlights. He didn’t say anything for a while then admitted he liked it. Not that it would have changed my mind! I think doing new things is the best thing for our brains as we get older – have fun with your fiction!!
Trisha says
Here here for doing things you love!
Trisha says
A ‘quit list’ is brilliant! It reminds me of the derivation of the word “decide,” which is to cut. As in, cutting away what’s not important. Love it.
Trisha says
Yes, yes, Barbara, seize the day! Sorry about your glum skies. I had a terrible time living in Ketchikan, Alaska because of the long stretches of cloudy weather. Was hard for a girl from Arizona to take. Hope you see some sun soon!
Dorina says
Happy New Year! I am pregnant this year. But yeah I am trying to not pressure myself with resolutions. We are trying tonprepare Pongo oyr australian cattle dog and our cat Cordelia for the baby and the changes. So msny things on my mind but I am staying positive. I think its hard at any age to give yourself space to rest or have fun so good for you.
I have read all your books. As a poetry writer and fiction writer yes makung tge switch fiction is hard. But man I think you will be amazing. Love your hair! My hair journey could fill a book or two lol. Good luck in the new year to you Jim and the pets! I know stopping seminars was a long hard choice but im glad i got to go to your philly one and your online videos and books continue to teach.
Melanie Hawkes says
I’m 40 in November and love colouring my hair! It’s only short so use only half a box of colour each time – very cheap. I love the way it feels after colouring and the shine. I only use semi-permanent colours so they wash out and don’t get the regrowth.
Glad you will keep writing this blog. When will The Education of Will be available in Australia or in ebook format? It is top of my must-read list! I have a reactive dog so want to learn what you went through with Will. I have read many of your books and will make an exception to read your fiction as I currently don’t read fiction. People’s stories are fascinating. Memoirs are my favourite genre.
Silke - Ryca says
Dear Trisha,
there is so much wisdom in your words and at the same time one can feel that it is not always easy to be that wise. I can relate to every word. Beeing in my early fifties (very short grey hair, nearly white, by the way) I had to stop working 2 years ago due to a drastic deterioration in my health.In addition to other physical limitations the epileptogenic drop attacks had already made it more and more difficult for me to leave the house without beeing afraid and they also made it more difficult for me to walk or move properly. Medication helped a bit, but I had the feeling I needed something else. Beeing a dog lover for all of my life I decided that I would like a seizure alert service dog.The miracle happened at Christmas 2015 and with the encouragement of my children and friends Holly came into my life. A dear friend and service dog trainer helped me training her and we have become a great team. Her emotional support and ability to alert about 10 minutes before a drop attack makes everything more managable for me; she also helps my by picking up things of all kind and makes me laugh. She has taught me to face up to my disabilities, to accept my early retirement and to focus on everybody and everything I love in life. Your Blog and your memoir, dear Thrisha, have not only been a treasure chest for Holly’s training, but gave me motivation, encouragement and emotional support. I have even dared to start therapy to cope with the effects of emotional and psycholocical abuse. Life has a whole new quality and meaning. My doctors are stunned by Holly’s positive effect on all my neurological disfunctions. That is why I took a leap of faith two months ago and got my second dog, Nate (23 weeks old), mobility service dog in training. I cannot put in words how grateful I am for this chance and I am looking forward to continuing our voluntary work for Associata. Reading your Blog or listening to your podcasts already available will be my treat.
Karen says
I’m jumping up and down at the idea of you writing fiction! I’ve long been a fan of your blog, and more recently, your books also. My husband and I chose to celebrate Jolabokaflod (the Icelandic book-giving tradition) this year instead of Christmas, and the one book I requested was “The Education of Will.” I spent Christmas day curled up with a cup of hot chocolate and your book, constantly interrupting my husbands reading, to read him beautifully written passages from your book.
Do it! Do it! Do it!
Chris from Boise says
Late to the party as usual, but congratulations Grandma Trish on choosing Celebration! It’s a great time in your life to prune away the ‘shoulds’ and build in what brings you joy. What brings me joy is that you’re continuing to post here. You have built a great community around this blog, and you have taught us all so much. So happy you’re not pruning this off yet.
Diane says
Happy New Year..to you and yours. I’ll be in line for your next book!
Enjoy your life. I say it like I know what to do and I’m in control, but grappling with aging is difficult.
Yet I still have a good job and a good life compared to so many. I need to adjust and find more for myself and my family, and accept and be happy with all the good I currently have.
Adjustment and comfort in who you are and what you still can be….I wish that for you (and for me too!)
You are enriched with the title Grandma!
I’m enriched and so happy you will continue your blog.