During my adult life I’ve tried not to think too much about age. Each decade has been different, with their ups and downs but all different. I must admit that approaching 80 felt quite diaunting but my health and fitness were still at a high level.
My birthday came and was celebrated in style with a fantastic party organized by the whole family. We had a wonderful tea party at my sons; bunting galore; every type of scone, cake and savoury; tea served in beautiful china cups from proper tea pots – all perfect! Many, many guests attended, some not seen for years. It is a memory that will live with me forever. There were loads of photos in a lovely album …. maybe my granddaughter will share some!
Then unfortunately my knees began to be a concern. Twelve years previously after my hip replacement I was warned my knees could become a problem – how true! In the last five years both have been replaced. The right one, no problem.
But the left has dictated a change to my whole life; only being given a 50-50 chance of a full recovery has been hard to accept. Many activities I took for granted – long walks, dancing, yoga – are no longer possible. Getting around day-to-day – housework and shopping doable, but not the pleasurable stuff that I loved.
Ageing is inevitable – th’is nowt to be done about it! We all have something to put up with. And it could be worse – like a car the engine slows over time and bits wear out. On the positive side I am surrounded by family and friends who support and encourage me.
I live in a lovely flat which is light, airy and easy to get around, surrounded by grass and trees. I have my own car – a family gift for my 80th. I’m often taken to the theatre to see ballet and musicals which I enjoy very much ….. and of course there’s the Pantomime every Christmas!
We eat out , trying many and varied types of cuisines and styles – a particular favourite currently is Vegan, a fantastic and amazing discovery after my youngest Granddaughter introduced me to it!
Maybe these later years are not as physically fulfilled as I would have wished, but in all other ways I am content. I’m so lucky that food and my cooking can give me a purpose and keep me in touch with people.
On a more personal level I must say my grandchildren give me so much pleasure and interest – watching them develop from cute and loveable children through their teens into hardworking, responsible young adults who luckily still find the time to keep me and part of their new lives even though they live, study and/or work in ever changing locations.
I love them all dearly xx
Gran E Bakes 