Looking back

I had to stop at the library last night to drop off some books. It was just before dark and there were some kids practicing soccer on the field behind the library. Oh did that take me back. I remember taking my kids to and picking them up from soccer practice. I remember going to their matches. I remember the years that 3 of my kids practiced on different nights of the week so every evening was rushed dinner, rushing to practice, and then rushing home to finish homework, get baths, and go to bed. Our world was spinning so fast at that point that I don't even remember being aware of the noise of soccer practice: the coaches hollering at the kids to do this, do that; the players giggling over whatever it was that little kids giggled about; and moms shouting to their sons and daughters to 'hurry up, we need to get home'. But those memories came back to me last night - snuck up like a thief to remind me of what I had back then. Those times were good and I wish I'd had more time to savor them.

A new leaf, a new life

 To say that retirement has been the best decision I've ever made is an understatement. After not being employed for 8 months, I took a part-time job for a few hours a week. It takes advantage of my love of the early morning hours and gives me the chance to talk to people in my community. And it is only 5 miles away from home. Despite living in this area for over 25 years, I feel like I never really got to know my neighbors. By volunteering with the fire hall and the library, I'm meeting more and more people and am starting to feel connected.

10.9.23

 

Plans for today: work on Christmas quilt, put new needle in Kenmore, sew at least 3 rows of church quilt.