Random Monday Thoughts

This photo was taken yesterday, the temperatures were spring like and the daffodils were beginning to bloom. We went to the Gardens after church for a little walk....we knew what was on the way. You know the saying, if you don't like the weather wait a minute it will change...that's how it rolls around here. Today the temperatures have dropped 45 degrees and it's been sleeting/snowing most of the day (hopefully the snow/ice will provide a protective little blanket for those newly opened flowers)

I have celebrated another birthday, and am a year closer to ending yet another decade. I am trying to figure out how I feel about that...getting older that is. There IS a lot that I like about this age, I love being a grandparent and I enjoy having an empty nest again. (raising sons was fun too) I like being one of  the "older" woman in my group of friends, and the opportunity it gives me to mentor younger woman. Mentoring is a wonderful thing and I would encourage you to befriend a woman who is in a season or two younger than you and encourage them in their journey. I am liking this season of change I have been in, I am beginning to find a new rhythm, my days as a homemaker are full and it's been a good thing.

The things that are more challenging about this age are mostly physical. After a full day of grandchildren I am just as tired as they are. I nap when they do. 

I used to be able to dig out new flower beds, now I just spray the outline where I want them and let the men do the digging. I probably should have been doing that all along. Most lifting is out and I don't see any marathons in my future. (not that I ever did any before) I wonder how things will change as I continue to age. My parents are in their eighties and still living independently in their home, it would be my desire as well. I try not to spend to much time worrying about the future, but birthdays have a way of making you stop and think.

Another thing about this age, I've seen a lot of stuff, I've experienced good times as well as bad, I have had to trust the Lord in some difficult things (and continue to do so) and I have learned that the Lord is faithful. Situations that seemed hopeless, he worked for good, difficulties experienced that he used for his purposes. There are still things that I don't get, situations that seem hopeless, prayers still not answered but I know He doesn't change, I know he will continue to be faithful no matter what the future holds

Still an Influence

We had an overnight visit with the grandchildren Saturday night. The plan was for some decorating, always more fun with children, and some cookie baking.

I enjoy having my grandchildren around, I consider it a blessing that they live close and that their parents make it a priority that they have the opportunity to spend time with us. We do not take it for granted.

The three younger children are very close in age, then there is a five year gap between child number two and child number one. It wasn't a real big deal when they were younger but now that the oldest is eleven, her interests are changing. While the little ones are playing she is often just reading a book.

The "light bulb" came on a couple of weeks ago...she still wants to come over to visit.....we still have influence....we need to make the most of the time we have been given....we needed to get her engaged in activities she would enjoy. My husband took the lead in this...he used her as an "apprentice" when he helped a friend fix a dryer, she was a great help to him and she loved helping. She has also shown an interest in using my camera....I was reluctant at first....not my camera... but then realized that it could be a great opportunity...this grandma is still learning.... I don't want to miss these chances to be that influence.

The weekend was a busy one, we decorated, we baked cookies and that evening we went out in the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights, this was one tired grandma by the end of the day but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

My prayer is that I will continue to see these opportunities....that I won't be so self focused that I miss them.