The Daily Prompt is “stump”. Sometimes a single word can uncork bottled-up feelings and thoughts. I’m in a season of change that I’ve been unable to put into words – until now.
Four years ago I moved to be near two of my three sons and their families. This is the place where they were born. My first marriage that lasted only as long as our children were at home is a time-worn story. Its ending was sad but necessary for me to move on. I remarried and followed my bliss to a vibrant city. City life, travel, lots of learning about myself enriched me greatly. In time I discovered I had once more moved beyond my present circumstances. By now my sons were married and grandchildren were born. I chose to live near them and be part of their lives. I used to wonder about my obituary describing me as a twice-divorced woman and think that’s not me. But it is. I’m single now and maybe I was headed here all along to be at home with myself.
Four years ago I put down new roots. I loved being with my family here. My grandchildren are awesome! I made friends in the apartment building where I live. I found a transportation service for seniors to get me where I want to go since I no longer drive. I found new doctors. All the mundane things that make up daily living fell into place. Until change happened all over again.
Several of my doctors retired or moved on and I had to get new ones. I had found a delightful new car service. However the sole driver recently told me that he is moving to California this winter. Aging is slowing me down. My energy is lessening. It doesn’t hurt but arthritis is making my body crooked. My children and their families are busier than ever growing into their unique family groups. My oldest grandson graduates from high school this year. Family remains my greatest joy. In the midst of these changes I now foresee the necessity for me to change as well. The hardest change facing me is giving up traveling. Flying in particular just wears me out. I told my son I was planning on skipping a beach reunion of my siblings and our children and grandchildren in August 2017. He replied that I should do what was best for me but to think about it. I did. When I called to tell him I was in, he offered to bring a beach chair for me. I’m getting excited and looking for flights.
I’m looking at things differently now. I got a Smartphone primarily so I can use Uber. I like the spontaneity of leaving home at will. I haven’t quite made that leap but I’m teaching myself to text my grandsons, who prefer to communicate that way. When I have my annual physical I’m going to ask my doctor for an order for a Rollator which Medicare will pay for. A Rollator is a well-wheeled walker with a height-adjustable handle bar, a hand brake, a seat to sit down in if the driver gets tired and a compartment under the seat for carrying things. This is the latest toy and craze for the Senior set. If you know what to look for they are everywhere. I have a friend, a former tennis player, who runs with hers to prove to herself she can. I plan to use mine to visit my son who lives close by. Uneven sidewalks between his house and my apartment have been a deterrent for me. I like change when I’m its author.
poetrybyheart.me 
Thanks for the opportunity to get to know you a little more! Blessings and peace in your unstopped life!
Thanks, Dennis.
You are moving with life’s changes gracefully which is a huge blessing and a wise choice. I admire you! xxx
Yes, I am blessed with being able to roll with aging. Your support means a lot to me. Thanks.
I think that is awesome and admirable to accept life and each special phase! most welcome xx
Oh yes! I know this song. I love my rollator mostly to always have a seat available. I challenge others to races and warn people that I am armed and dangerous, so watch their toes. I now have a doctor for every body part and several of them, I am pretty sure, are in their teens. We went to the South West of France with a rollator, a wheel chair, two CPAP machines, and enough medicines to start our own pharmacy. One of our grown and unmarried sons went with us and drove. Unfortunately all that equipment required a large car in an area of medieval towns with very narroiw roads. The car was smaller when we returned it! The main changes for us now are stopping more frequently at side walk cafe’s, once in a while grabbing a “snap” (short nap) between returning to our rented apartments and going out to late dinner, and taking out lots of insurance to bring us home on life support or in an urn. 🙂
Wow, Eileen! You are a veteran rollator traveler. I love your feistiness! I belong to the Illinois Cremation Society and carry a card when I travel abroad to insure I will be returned home if necessary. The policy is called Welcome Home.
I love your honesty! So many things you share ring true for me also. Have been feeling bluesy about travel too. Have fun with Uber-I haven’t tried it yet. :0 Cheers and hugs for your bravery.
Bluesy is a good word. Underneath my many upbeat moments lies a kernel of something sad I can’t put words to. Thanks for your cheers and hugs.
I’ll have to look up the Rollator! It sounds handy! And I love the Uber idea.
I’m glad you like my new ideas. Thanks for letting me know.
Glad you decided to join in on the beach reunion next year 🙂
Thanks. I know I belong there. 🙂
Sounds like you have the right attitude to keep rolling merrily along! As one of my theme songs says “you’ve got to roll with it, baby!”
I like your theme song. I hope to continue “rolling with it, baby.”
You go! One day, I’ll follow!
I’ll welcome you.