I've been thinking about summer and how its meaning has changed for me over the years. Being a working mom, there was the time off from school for the kids and figuring out childcare (thank you mom and dad), summer activities to keep the kids busy, fitting in an actual vacation for the four of us, and generally wishing that I wasn't at work.
Then the kids got older. I didn't need to be so hands on. They came to work and hung out in the afternoon after school or even all day during the summer. For a few years, work had a summer camp for kids that went on all summer. They had a blast.
Then the day came when they were both grown and living their lives in college, their own work, activities with friends. I was still at work and found myself in a five year countdown to retire. Oh, how I did not want to be working anymore. I sooo wanted the freedom to do nothing, something, everything.
That day has been here for two years now. I look back gratefully on the time I had at work. For the most part, I wouldn't change anything but OH! I am so glad now that . . .
Every Single Day is a Holiday.
For more childhood dreams and dreams of summer,
5 comments:
Isn't retirement wonderful? Glad so see you met the challenge at IA, I hope to post and entry this week too.
Darla
Wow! We have a lot in common. Everyday's been a holiday for me since I left work 2 years ago. I was joking with my hairdresser that the only bad thing about retirement is no more 3 day weekends. Needless to say, she didn't feel a bit sorry for me.
I love the story you share with your artwork. Stopping by from IA. Thank you for sharing.
oh, you retired people...I am so trying to be nice to you!! just kidding (somewhat -LOL). I probably will be working until they roll me out in a wheel chair and drive me to the home! I got to be a stay at home mom for a short time and then went to work. I never wanted to be anywhere but home. I just hope when I retire, I am not too old to do what I love, or can still remember what it was! LOL
Enjoy your week. I have enjoyed our blog! It's back to work for me tomorrow!
Filled with gratitude, but still feel the need to whine now and then.... :)
I loved your story and words, and it was so cool to realize the hidden sheer image through the calendar! I'm glad you are enjoying retirement-- on one hand the prospect scares me (because I work several jobs which do not really put money towards a package, so it's up to me to take care and save-- plus I'm a bit of a workaholic), and on the other hand it seems like such bliss to have time for yourself. It's great to hear about it, and very glad you are happy! Thanks for posting your words and art.
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