A few years previously, all the children grown and independent, my husband and I began to discuss downsizing. Simultaneously, our divorced daughter, single mom of two, was yearning to move to a better school district. We purchased a larger home with massive yard and moved in together along with their dog. The boys are now teenagers, daughter travels frequently for work, and hubby and I look at each other and wonder how we got here.
I now understand why older people appear confused: life is full, hectic, challenging. Although I am fairly tech savvy, changes in devices come just as I am beginning to master the old one. Feeling I can schedule appointments any time, I find my schedule filling irregularly. Promising myself to tackle an unwanted chore, I then relegate it to a later date, knowing “I can do it anytime.” Finding quiet in our household with people coming and going, boys calling for transportation, laundry running, and dog begging for a walk can be a challenge. Living with the surliness of teenagers is exhausting.
I assert that my challenges are the result of my blessings. What better blessing than to be surrounded by children and grandchildren who, although occasionally sullen, are for the most part loving and fun. Although my personal space is limited to a corner of the bedroom, I share a large home and yard with my immediate family and entertain many guests frequently. Not only do we get to welcome our friends, but our daughter’s friends have joined our circle. I have learned to appreciate pets, to prioritize my activities and chores, and to hide away whenever I need to.
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