Aging ...

Unfortunately, I seem to be seeing the results of age. It is not pretty!

In my younger years, people always seemed to be surprised at my age. They seem to be surprised now, too. The difference is that I USED to look younger than my age. Not so much now.

Last night I went to my "Tuesday Club" meeting. (For those who don't know - at Ross stores the Tuesday Club means that the over 55 bunch gets 10% off their total purchase!) I happen to be older than 55. A few years ago I had to show my ID to get the discount. Now, there is no question. They just automatically give it to me. The last 6 1/2 years have aged me.

The beautiful sun tans that I used to work so diligently to have are showing their ugly side. The chicken skin neck and the droopy bat wings are far from attractive!

The other day Hugsum and I were riding along discussing the aging process. I stated that I really don't MIND getting older. In fact, I don't FEEL old - until I look in the mirror. I despise the old look! He looked at me and stated, "you don't like the way you look, huh?" Then he glanced in the rear view mirror and said, "well, I still look pretty good!"

I didn't know whether to laugh or cry or slap him! I figured that the last two options were not good ones, so I just laughed.

I've determined that I'm going to enjoy "me" in whatever state I'm in. I enjoyed my tan. I would do it again. I feel better with a tan. I might not do the tanning bed as often to maintain my golden brown, but I would use it for a starter tan... the main thing is DO NOT BURN! That is where the damage does the most harm.

As I've said, I don't feel my age. When I think of how old I am, I normally think that I'm 23. Not so much ... try 61 ... I've enjoyed my life. I've been blessed and I don't have many regrets. (except the ugly age showing up - hehe)

I'm learning to cope with it. I'm learning to accentuate the good parts and help the other ones. First - I'm drinking more and more water and tea and skipping the cokes (or soda or pop - depending on what you call it). I'm trying to "move" more - as in exercise. Get more aerobic activity into my life as well as stretching. I'm trying to eat better. Cut out the fried foods and sugars - eat more natural. FRESH is always better for you. White stuff is bad.

I plan to age gracefully and thankfully...