I made a vow now that I am 59 my journey to 60 was going to be filled with health and wellness. I have started social media health groups and my followers are my inspiration on this trip so I knew I had to rethink my weekly shopping purchases!
I immediately took everything out of the refrigerator and laid it on the counter. I then took all the shelves and drawers out and scrubbed away. I neatly put everything back and sadly discarded the expired salad dressings and I am ashamed to list the many more wasted items. I did the same routine with the freezer.
After feeling proud of the clean refrigerator I did the same with my clothes closet. I began sorting and donating and saw many pretty blouses and skirts I had bought for special occasions in the past that never were worn again. Some things I had completely forgotten were in there. Like the refrigerator I tossed out the old and organized the rest.
The neat refrigerator and closets made me feel accomplished but at the same time sad. Compared to how they once looked they now seem empty. I know I can write honestly for many of you probably feel the same. Thoughts of having people around to cook for as well as events which required the outfits are no longer a part of my life. I continued to buy because it made me feel comforted to have so many things. Empty shelves are lonely.
We never see anything clearly when cluttered. Like everyone I needed to give myself time to sort my feelings. It took a few weeks to realize that I may not have lots of people over anymore or parties to attend very much but they are part of my memories. I do have a happy marriage, we both are putting our minds on our small businesses, I have time to do my hobbies such as writing, and I am making friends and am thoroughly enjoying getting to know them better.
It is not easy to let the routines of the past go because it involves change. Love lives in our hearts not on cluttered shelves. All the blueberries and salad dressing purchases in the world will not give me my old life back.
I came to the conclusion I don't want my legacy to be storage containers. Quite honestly I don't think too many kids want our stuff when we are gone. I have learned to rid myself now so they don't have to do it later. I am learning at 59 I want my legacy to be adventure, laughter, learning new things and staying as healthy as I can so I will be around for a long time.
I recently read a quote in an inspirational book I love that said.
"Nothing is wasted. Every single moment is preparing you for the next"
So, if you are like me and the people that live in your home has lessened you need to know it is time to purchase one pint of blueberries. Should you need more, the store will still have them. I know it is sad. Do not spend your time crying. Instead put on one of those special occasion shirts that you know are hidden in the back of your closet. I can now smile at the empty shelves for I have a lot less housework. With all of this extra time I can spend it with all my new amigos.
Nothing is a waste friends. It may not be the same but the story continues. Let us stick together and make these the best days of our lives.