Contemplating the year ahead has given thought to the advantages and blessings of being the age I am. I say advantages because I choose to look at the positive side of life! After all, there really isn’t anything I can do to change what stage of life I am at, and it’s a lot better than listing all of the unfortunate maladies, doctor’s appointments and issues of aging!
So here goes, my Baker’s Dozen!
- I’ve survived and actually thrived during the very busy child rearing and career building years.
- After 56 years of marriage, I am still NOT sorry; I’m very happy and thankful for my soul-mate.
- I am familiar with my strengths and weaknesses and I am comfortable with them—I try to operate in my strengths.
- I realize I cannot please everyone and stay true to my principles; I wish I could please everyone, but I can live with it if I don’t.
- Interruptions and surprises don’t bother me as they used to, I’ve learned to appreciate the serendipity of the moment.
- Laughing about my physical changes and stories about my personal weaknesses lightens the mood and expectations of others; we may as well laugh and not get tense!
- When I get into my car, it isn’t as a chauffeur—I can actually pray, listen to music and put two thoughts together without any distractions.
- My feet are very happy! No spiked 3” heels and pointed toes for me! Comfort and cushioning is what I strive to find! And I’m no longer worried about the fashion police.
- My sleep, though often shorter than I’d like, begins on crisp yet smooth sheets, several fluffy pillows, and cuddly comforter. My bedroom is a cozy haven and retreat.
- My eyes thank me for the multiple pairs of cheater readers located in every room of our home. I no longer consider them a flaw, but a fashion statement!
- My pocketbook thanks me for all the “senior” coupons and discounts at restaurants, theater and Kohl’s on Tuesdays.
- Using my “free muffins” coupon at a cute cafe, my girlfriend and I can share about our family’s, our Bible Study, our favorite e-Book, and solve the world’s latest crisis!
- The longer I live, the more I realize that my relationship with the Lord will reflect in every area of my life—whether good or bad. I want it to be great!
“ LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. ~Psalm 16
I am counting my “advantages” as blessings and I am thankful for good health, a happy marriage, children who love us, and good friends to help me celebrate another year of my life, knowing the Lord is in control of all of it! How about you? What “advantages” and blessings are on your list??
Pam’s background has involved teaching, whether at women’s retreats, Bible Studies, or Personality Seminars. She also owned her own businesses: one in the medical field and then in Real Estate, which she did with her husband Bob. They have just moved to a condo in Branson, Missouri, and look forward to more adventures in their RV! Pam and Bob have loved their life experiences—wherever they took them—from the States and Canada, to a cruise in Tahiti—Living Their Best Life has always been their goal!
Pam!!!! This is good and so true! THANK YOU For the positive reminders… I lost three pair of bifocals last year…😳 and I’m excited to finally found a pin to hold them to my clothing instead of chains! LOL! because of this post, I am no longer embarrassed ! 😉😉😉
Too funny, Debbie! We’re all in this together, right?? Thank you, now I feel better too! 🙂
Your Baker’s Dozen is right on target, for me. I don’t cook as extensively, as I used to, love where I am in life, and am much more appreciative than ever of my many blessings. It really is “Living Out ‘My’ Best Life”.
Yay, Jacqueline! Identifying what “works” for us and getting a better perspective on life means a lot! We are free to be our Best self…
I’ve read it and at 87 years old I’m blessed to be here to enjoy my life my family, my grandkids and great grandkids. God is good . You taught me so much and I’m grateful.
Wow! I do believe I needed to find this today! We moved after 36 years and a pastorate in Florida to be closer to our daughter’s family. We ended up 40 minutes or so away, but can at least see them more often.
We were retired. My husband was starting to get depressed. He never has…but this was a totally new situation and we weren’t adjusting well.
Then 2 1/2 years ago he was asked to substitute at 2 small churches one Sunday, then til they found a new pastor, and we’re still there! It’s a real blessing! We have services at one, then travel 8 mile or so to the other church! We love it! They are small congregations and every month that has 5 Sipundays, we meet together for service and a potluck dinner!
But because we’re so far away, we haven’t made really close friends that we see a lot. Marita’s ideas and your message have really inspired me to figure out how to get acquainted and closer to some gals I know. I’m 81, and hopefully can get this going. Thanks so much!