Last Saturday, I attended a birthday lunch for my brother-in-law, Winslow who was celebrating his 75th. Reference was made to it being his "3/4th of a Century Birthday."; that really put it all in perspective. I'm about four years behind him and have had many conversations with my peers about life passing by so quickly. … Continue reading Keeping Our Dreams Alive
growing older
Livin’ the Dream: Phases
This week I enjoyed a late morning walk on the paved path around Hunter Street Park. The weather was perfect and the leaves were hinting at fall with branches displaying some orange-gold color. The nice thing about retirement is that I don't have to walk in the early morning darkness like I did all those … Continue reading Livin’ the Dream: Phases
Surrendering to the Seasons of Life
Last year in August when I walked on the Portuguese Coastal Path of the Camino, I was amazed that there were flowers blooming that are at their peak in spring and summer in North Carolina. I was surprised to find a pumpkin growing on a garden fence which we'd typically see in September. In that … Continue reading Surrendering to the Seasons of Life
Bittersweet: Watching Our Children Grow Up
This week marked the beginning of a new year for the schools in our area. My grandsons have been anticipating the first day, the older one, Baker would be entering second grade and his younger brother, David "Parks" would be in kindergarten. I've been reminded of the benefits of having an older sibling as I've … Continue reading Bittersweet: Watching Our Children Grow Up
Remembering Ms. Pauline
Over the eight years that Mama lived at Parkview Retirement Village, I saw many of my high school classmates when they were visiting their mothers. One of them was my classmate-from-first-grade, Bragg Cox. That friendly guy with the blond hair and easy smile was attracted to another one in our first grade class, my friend, … Continue reading Remembering Ms. Pauline
Choosing Freedom
As we've moved past our July 4th Independence Day in the US, I'm reminded that we're now into the second half of 2025. During the first half of this year, I've found myself learning how to relax in the flow of life. Through most of my years, I've been a planner, goal-setter, and daydreamer about … Continue reading Choosing Freedom
The Gifts of Reading
This year I've had the joy of reading to my younger grandson, Parks and his Pre-K class. Next week he'll graduate in preparation for entering Kindergarten at the end of August. I've watched him grow over the past year, with increased concentration and ability to sit and listen without interrupting -- waiting to raise his … Continue reading The Gifts of Reading
Planting Seeds: Allowing the Space for a Slow Process
This morning I spaded holes in my patio garden for the six sunflower plants that survived being washed out from downpours. I bought a third packet of seeds, determined that this year I'd have enough of the tall ones to stand watch at the back of the garden and small ones in front to cut … Continue reading Planting Seeds: Allowing the Space for a Slow Process
Lessons learned by a Drop Out Knitter
Years ago I entered a phase of intense experimenting with different crafts and arts. I'd held in my creative urges when I was raising my boys -- given I had so little time for anything after work. Once my sons were in high school and more independent, able to drive themselves to their activities, I … Continue reading Lessons learned by a Drop Out Knitter
Dealing with the Seasons of Life
This has been a season of stark contrast between life and death. During the past month, I spent time with my boyfriend, Chris and his family as they took care of his father during his last days. The atmosphere of that somber time was accentuated by the Erie, Pennsylvania weather -- cold, overcast, blowing rain, … Continue reading Dealing with the Seasons of Life
Connie Rosser Riddle 