55+

Prior to moving to our current home, we lived in a very nice apartment complex for two years. It had a diverse population and we definitely were part of the smaller, "older" crowd. This was most noticeable when we went to the pool. When you are typically the oldest person in a group, and not in the kind of shape you once were, you actually start to think more about your age. And not in happy fun ways.

Then we moved to a 55+ community. I strongly recommend every one who can, to seriously consider moving into a 55+ community shortly after turning 55. It is sooooo fun to be the "youngster" again. To have people ask, "are you old enough to live here?"  Hee hee

I hate to be about ego, but this is really good for my ego. :)

I have had more compliments from sweet old men in the few months we've lived here, than I've had in a number years!

And I see the way the "older" women look at my hunk of a husband. You can tell they are not disappointed in the eye candy that has moved in. :)

So, consider this post to be words to the wise. If you are younger, store this idea in the recesses of your memory. If you are around 55 and want to feel young again, consider moving. If you are part of the older, more mature generation a 55+ community might be for you as well. You never know who might move in next door. :)

New home

After years living in apartments with about 1K square feet of living space and owning a home that had slightly less, we are currently in a home with about 1,800 square feet. It is so fun to have space and room again. Even now, I am at my desk, in the office/music room! I'm hoping this new space will encourage me to get back to my writing. I sit looking out the window enjoying the soft breeze. It is not a scenic view as the house next door is only about a car length away. But to some degree that is not bad. I will not be terribly distracted and yet I can see geckos playing, grass, a few plantings, sky and the tip of a palm tree peeking over the neighbors house. In other words, HEAVEN. :)

The first thing I noticed, living in a bigger house again, is that I can't just reach out and touch my husband. Shortly after moving in I was in the back room and called his name. No response. I called again. No response. I found him in the kitchen oblivious to the fact that I had been calling him. Yes, with more space I need to learn to use my "outside" voice again.  Lucky Gary. :)

I feel so blessed. We've been in this home almost 3 months and every day I thank the Lord for this answer to prayer. We have a 2 car garage, a patio, and a "Florida room", which I am not sure is called that in Florida. Ha ha!

My parents are less than 2 hours from here and we get to see each other often. I've seen my siblings more as result of this move as well since they come and visit the folks on a regular basis. Just an added perk I did not expect with the move to Florida.

All our kids and grandkids were here in January. AND we actually had room for everyone!

I work with and serve along side some of the best women I've ever had the joy of knowing. They inspire and encourage me on a regular basis.

Yes, life is good. Perfect? No. But good. We have settled on a church home but I don't think they know that yet. But they will. Gary is not playing music yet. But he will. I have not golfed on the course in this 55+ community we live in. Not yet. But I will.

Here is the biggest thing. The apartments were a place to live. The last house we had was a house. This sweet place has become "HOME". And every time I walk through the door my stress level goes down and I just give a big sigh, "Ahhhhh". Home. A place to rest and love, a place to make sweet memories, a place to live, laugh, and learn.

Shortly after moving in I was reading a Bible I bought for my oldest Grandson. I'm reading every page and writing thoughts and notes that hopefully some day will mean a great deal to him. I hope I get it done before Christmas so I can give it to him then, or for his 6th birthday. Once done, I'll buy another and do the same for my second Grandson, and then the third, and then...

Anyway, back to when I was reading this Bible. I was in Genesis reading about Jacob (wow) and got to Genesis 32:1-2. Jacob went on his way and the angels of God met him. And when Jacob saw them he said "This is God's camp!" As I read those words I wept. That is what this home feels like to me. God's camp. An answer to prayer. AMEN!