Holy moly…where does time go? Unofficially, summer starts May long weekend. Gardens are usually planted that weekend. The danger of frost is rare. My neighbours plant flowers and vegetables in their raised beds in the back ally.

Carol, my writing companion, and I decided on a summer-break from our monthly meetings, in large measure, because we couldn’t find a day to meet up. We were both busy. That business seems on-going. Today is September 1st. Labour Day long weekend which traditionally marks the end of summer. At least, it marks summer’s end for students, parents and educators.

I feel shocked at how fast these months have passed. Life seems to be speeding up. I turned 65 in June. That got my attention. I am officially a “senior” with all of its perks. Of course, I’m changing wrinkle by wrinkle. My energy remains youthful and yes, sometimes I don’t dress my age. I remain committed to my eclectic style.

In spite of all the business I make time to recharge. The introvert in me requires it. It’s not an option; not a luxury. I learned that the hard way. It took a couple of hard knocks of burn-out before I got the message. I savour my down-time and protect it fiercely. I am proud of the fact that I can now enjoy “doing nothing”.

On the other hand, what have I been doing?

I’m working a job which I throughly enjoy occupying 4 days a week. I am a bit more tired at the end of the week. I hope to work another few years as long as I can contribute. I trust, I will know when it’s time to leave. If not, my boss would make the suggestion, kindly. I may simply work less. Of course, I’d like to leave on my own terms.

On my weekday off I schedule medical appointments and coffee or lunch dates with friends. I have a couple of new friends and we’re delighting in getting to know each other. Also, I love visiting with long-time friends.

Bob and I spent a week in Vancouver to visit friends, at the end of June. One couple flew in from Tennessee. We first met these two in Penang, Malaysia in 1990. We hung out with them for several days. We shared lots. And laughed a lot. Bob and I then spent a few weeks in Revelstoke. Canyons Hot Springs Resort/Campground was our go to destination for decades. The hot pool is good for the body and soul. We did tent and cabin camping. I was grateful for the connections and the comforts. I returned to work fully rested. Yay!

August is a blur. Trying to fill in the blanks is a challenge. What stands out, in my heart, is we went to a few barbecues with a new group of friends. We are the oldest and I’m honoured we were included. We also hosted a barbecue. We had a marvellous day at our place in the country. As one woman put it, “its just so nice to get out of the city for a day.” The weather was a perfect 23 Celsius and sunny. The gathering was a “just because” event, however, we secretly planned to sing “Happy Birthday” to Bob. He didn’t see the cake when it arrived and was quite surprised when we started singing to him with this beautiful cake in tow. I love it when your ideal vision manifests!

As I post this, yet another month has passed. It’s autumn. Edmonton’s river valley is absolutely gorgeous! The deciduous leaves are a golden yellow and the bushes are fire-engine red. An abundance of conifers pepper the landscape. I live south-central a few blocks from the ridge of a coulee. On my commute, I get an expansive view of the river valley. A heavy fog sat in the low laying areas yesterday morning. The drive was magical.

It’s October 3rd. I’m on an early flight to Toronto. It’s a whirlwind trip; Friday morning to Sunday evening. I’m going to visit my mom and have dinner with a few friends from high school. Ah…we are beginning our descent into Pearson Airport. Time to sign off.

What did you do this summer and early autumn? Have you taken time to reflect on your heartfelt moments? Do you write about them?

In gratitude,

~Barbara