by Andrea Erickson
Back in my 20's, 30's, and even well
into my 40's, I always had an touch of 'wild and crazy' in my blood. Whether it
was biking with a group of friends for 50 miles, skiing in a snow squall,
hiking down a remote trail in the wilderness, or hopping on a train in Europe
with no destination in mind to see if I could find the sun. These days, my
'wild and crazy' has been changed due to my reduced ability to walk long
distances, and my life responsibilities. Pet dogs cannot always come along, and
when they can join us, their company requires oversight. So, no spontaneous
trips that force us to leave them behind.
But, life is far from boring! These
middle age years have given me a true appreciation of classical music, opera,
ballets, contemporary music. I've also learned to love the wonder and beauty of
museums, from art to science to astronomy - we finally have the time and a
little money to squeeze in visits and shows. It's wonderful to be able to soak
in these experiences! And then there are the vacations we're able to savor -
short stays or longer. I've seen more of this country now than ever before -
local areas and long distance. There are surprises and fun around every corner.
Finally, there is my new career -
writer, blogger, poet. These were activities that were former hobbies, but I'm
embracing then as a new source of inspiration for me as a profession. Money is
not the motivator now, it's my ability to call my own shots and work with the
freedom I've acquired in these 'middle' years.
But, maybe that's the way life works.
Our life experiences and memories keep us remembering those 'wild and crazy'
moments, so we can laugh, reminisce with friends and family, and chart our next
course of discovery. As the author, Jules Renard noted, “It`s not how old you are, it`s how you are
old.”
