As we age, we tend to lose people.

[Tree Lady]

19. You are so correct

And not just losing but watching friends and family deal with operations, cancer, limitations, etc

My close friend just had a hip operation 5 days ago and my heart breaks knowing she is in pain even though I know it won’t last forever.

My good friend and neighbor has pancreatic cancer and is on her third different chemo and courageously fighting to stay alive.

The new neighbors we went to dinner & play with few nights ago had a hard time walking and didn’t drink anymore.

I love to hike and feel lucky that my body can still do short hikes, long walks, yoga and other exercises. I miss having friends to do these things with and joined classes for a few but around here hiking clubs even senior ones are hard core that go much further than I want to.

My friend who got hip operation plans to do pt and hopefully heal enough to go with me, my fingers are crossed.

I have been lucky so far to only lose older family members but probably next year my neighbor friend will go.

This past year especially with Trump, aging and needing to feel hopeful, I have been more mindful and appreciate each day. I am thankful for my golden who is 9 and getting older also.

For many years at Christmas I stayed home, away from family because my husband prefers to stay home, not liking family stuff. I visit my kids and grandkids throughout the year alone. This year I booked a flight leaving on Christmas Day for a week staying with my older daughter and my younger one is also flying in with family and staying nearby.

Merry Christmas and I am glad you are here. I am not close to many here but this is my place, my people I feel safe with and has been for over 20 years.