MVP

If you're anything like me—a grandmother in her super-duper, incredibly-late 50s—then this blog is for you. For over 38 years, my family has been my top priority. And for the first 28, it was all about my kids. Then, about 10 years ago, the grandkids, those adorable little chaos-makers came along and it was like adding a bonus level to a video game. Now, I'm looking at being the family MVP until, well, I kick the bucket.

Here's the scoop for all you future moms out there: Parenthood doesn't end at 18, or 21, or even 37. It ends... well, it never really ends, so buckle up! Be ready to make people you didn’t even give birth to a priority. And I'm not just talking about those sweet grandbabies. Oh no, I'm talking about your kids other halves. Yeah, the inlaws become a priority too. Welcome to the never-ending ride called motherhood! 🚀👵

Don't be the Dragon!

They say you get wiser with age. I'm almost 60, and honestly, I'm still waiting for that wisdom to kick in. I've been seeing all these Facebook posts about not letting people into your life if they don't have time for you. Sounds great, but what if those people are family members? Can't just unfriend Aunt Mildred, can you?

Here's my take on it—if you don’t value me, then you’ve become as useful as a screen door on a submarine. It doesn’t mean we won’t have awkward Thanksgiving dinners together; it just means I know where I stand. You’re in my life, but you’re not getting any of my good wine or my Netflix password.

People who are deliberately harmful? They can take a hike. And those who only find me valuable when they need something? Yep, they can join the hiking club too.

I've seen folks get what they deserve—both the good and the bad. Sometimes it takes a whole village to help someone through tough times. And if you’re not part of that village, well, you're basically the dragon they’re fighting. 🐉

Hi Mean Girl... I'm Batman!

Recently, I've noticed some high school drama vibes creeping into my workplace. Now, I'm more of a lone wolf—think Batman but with fewer gadgets and more coffee. But even I can see that exclusionary behavior is a one-way ticket to Hurt Feelings-ville, especially for those who are already feeling down or just trying to fit in.

Take, for instance, my birthday last year. Everyone at the office dressed like me. It was hilarious, inclusive, and nobody looked as fabulous as I did. Now, compare that to the mean girl antics where only a select few get to join the "cool kids club." Spoiler alert: it's not cool; it's toxic.

What should you do when faced with this pettiness? Should you confront them with a dramatic monologue worthy of an Oscar, or serve up a dish of their own medicine, chilled to perfection? While the answer isn't straightforward (and confronting them with a Shakespearean soliloquy might be overkill), it’s crucial to remember that being exclusionary is never okay.

To those indulging in mean girl behavior, a word of advice—karma’s a boomerang. Treat others with kindness and inclusivity. Not only will you create a positive environment, but you'll also set a great example for future generations. Remember, your kids are watching, and they're learning from your actions. Don't be a Regina George; be a Leslie Knope. Because nobody wants to end up lonely and realizing too late that genuine, supportive relationships are what truly matter.

My Turn!

I've realized it's time to stop making sacrifices for others and start prioritizing myself. If I don't take this step now, it might never happen—and that's a daunting thought. For so long, my life has revolved around meeting the needs of those around me, without anyone asking, "What about you? What will make you happy?"

It's time to change that narrative. I'm ready to focus on my own happiness and well-being. If I succeed, I'll share my journey and the strategies that helped me get there. Let's make our happiness a priority! 🌟

Where are my Thoughts?

I haven’t been blogging much lately, and I’m not entirely sure why. I have the time and plenty of thoughts to share, yet I rarely sit down to write. The issue might be that my ideas come at the most inconvenient times—like when I am making my bed and not near my computer. As a result, those thoughts go unwritten, which is a shame because articulating them could help clear my cluttered mind for new ideas.

It’s a shame because getting these thoughts out really helps clear my cluttered mind. Without that outlet, I find it harder to make good decisions. My old blog posts fill at least three thick books—real, substantial collections of my musings on life, the world, and everything in between. Over the past year, though, I haven’t blogged at all. Does this mean I’ve lost interest in my own life? I’m not sure.

But I’ve decided it’s time to start again, even if I feel like I have nothing significant to say. Someday, I’ll open one of those big books and find a blog post about a recipe I’d completely forgotten. And at that moment, it will all feel worth it.

Dennis is UNHAPPY

Life often presents us with difficult decisions and unexpected changes. Currently, we are contemplating whether to build a new house or buy an existing one, primarily because Dennis has grown tired of the pool we installed four years ago. His discontent has affected my own feelings toward the pool, and now it feels like a burden rather than a joy.

When you invest time, effort, and money into something, and it isn't appreciated, it can be disheartening. This extends beyond just the pool; it applies to the entire home. Our house is beautiful, with immaculate landscaping and a backyard that resembles a vacation oasis. But Dennis's reluctance to maintain the pool has dampened my enthusiasm as well. Everything in life requires effort, from maintaining our homes and bodies to enjoying activities outside. The yard should be no different.

However, Dennis's persistent complaints have led me to reconsider our living situation. I don't want to stay in a place where neither of us is happy. Yet, I also don't want to move into a house that lacks the amenities we currently enjoy. If we decide to move, the new place must meet all our needs, including spaces for our grandchildren to play when they visit.

Ultimately, we are at a crossroads. Whether we choose to build a new home, purchase an existing one, or stay put, our decision will shape our future.

Where are my people?

Am I the only one seeking more grown-up experiences? While my friends seem stuck in teenage habits, I'm craving connections with people who understand the challenges of adulthood. I want to bond with those who have kids, grandkids, and relatable life experiences. I'm not interested in chasing youth, finding new relationships, or obsessing over our looks. I want friends who accept that aging is a natural part of life and share similar perspectives. Are there others out there feeling the same way?