New Beginnings

Two thousand five was a big year for me! After 25 years of family life, my lil nest emptied; my children went off to venture and build lives of their own choosing. As the oldest of six and then raising four of my own, all I’d ever known, up to this juncture, was a care-taking style of living. So, naturally I floundered; what now?
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Uncertain as to how to define this pondering, I packed my things into a storage unit, loaded my car with books and bike and outdoor equipment and set off on a 5 month driving venture in an attempt to answer, “Now what?”

Two Thousand Fifteen, also, proved a big year for me!!! I underwent testing for cancer (thankfully - none existed). I underwent major surgery which was followed, two days after my discharge from the hospital, by a visit to the Emergency Room due to complications with my breathing. Everything turned surreal as medical staff descended upon me in the concern I’d developed a blood clot. The ER doctor advised me of the potential of another (emergency) surgery and too of the possibility I may meet with my Maker. Staff hurriedly placed me on a gurney and wheeled me down a long corridor and into a room where a Tech preformed a cat scan on my heart . . .
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I walked away from this experience determined to make changes in areas of my life that I’d shelved away for - future attention. After working nearly fourteen years in an industry governed by contracts and statutes, I now spend the bulk of my time and energy investing in creative endeavors. I set healthier standards of conduct in relationships I’d enabled and where I’d failed to set healthy boundary lines of respect. My people pleasing ways and my inability to execute an appropriate “no” not only did not seem to please, but, upon reflection, did not benefit the ones I’d placate. Now, in the best interest of others and, too, of myself, in spite of the potential for anger or isolation, I issue a healthy no. My spiritual focus is much more clear these days. And, adventuring is a priority.

Repositioning is no easy feat. Nearly four years have passed and my life is still in process as I work toward goals important to my heart. I recently purchased a motorhome with the aim to head south this Fall or this coming Spring. My goal, my intent is to continue my creative, spiritual and adventurous ways of living.

I wrote the posts, that precede this blog entry, in 2005 to family and friends who asked to follow my happenings during the 5 months I spent traveling. I hope that you enjoy reading as my writings provide you with a small window into the direction I am currently heading.

Here is to new beginnings - whatever our season in life.