Things I have Learned

The past three weeks I've learned a few things about myself.

For instance, life is going to happen no matter what I think or feel. I can sit and pout or I can get motivated. That's simple enough, isn't it?

I love having "Perfect World" visions. You know where you envision how things would go in a perfect world and would just work out to your advantage with no tears- just smiles, lollipops, and rainbows. P.W. visions keep me sane some times when I get overwhelmed.

My family and I are going to survive this retirement. We really are. I don't know where we are going to end up when all is said and done, but I have faith that God knows and He will reveal it to me in His time. God also knows I'm a planner and I just know He won't let me suffer too much. Maybe just enough to be a touch frazzled and call on Him a little bit more, you think?

My husband finally gave me a tentative retirement ceremony date yesterday. It's going to be around mid-September. The date isn't set in stone, but it gives me a day. A day to plan somewhat. That date grounds me. Even if it changes, it will only be the week before or the week after. I have peace in knowing I have something to work with.

I also know my children will be okay. My Paige is a good kid. She has had to plan her classes for next year this past week. This is hard for her since she doesn't know where she will be finishing up 10th grade next year. What did she do? That girl got all proactive and looked at a couple of high schools where we *might* end up. She studied their requirements and compared them to what she can take here and finish there. She has a plan for next year for her classes. I never had to do a thing. She took care of it so that she, herself, could have peace of mind. She is just like her mother, that one. Give her a plan and she's set. She has reconciled herself with the fact that she has to leave this school she loves. I really hate having to do this to her- more than she will ever know. But, she's going to be just fine.

I have learned that I have amazing friends here where I am. The past two weeks have found me helping Neighbor Debbie with getting her homes taken care. Carla and I helped her clean the one she was leaving and we painted the one she was going to. It was back numbing work with long hours, but it's done! I would do it again in a heartbeat. That's what friends do, you know. They jump up and help without a second thought. I feel lost now, like a part of me is gone because we've been next door to each other for almost three years. Neighbor Greg had it pegged right when he said we needed to wean from each other a little bit. I have to say I agree with him. At least I can still see her on a regular basis and our dwindling group can stay intact for a few more months.

Ultimately, I have learned that I'm going to be okay. I say that now, but the closer it gets.....the more I'm sure I'll need nerve pills of some sort. I will plan what I can as I go and let God handle the rest. Now, if I could just follow my own advice, I'd be good to go!