Being in my mid-30s may not seem particularly old, and I still get mistaken for younger occasionally, yet lately, I’ve started feeling the weight of time. Here are some indicators that suggest the inevitable march of age is upon me.
- Nature Appreciation: I’ve found myself enjoying birdwatching. Just the other day, I was admiring a lovely female cardinal at my bird feeder—something I requested for Mother’s Day. I can only imagine my children will soon be gifting me bird-themed items for Christmas, and I’ll be that person wearing a bird-emblazoned sweatshirt at school functions.
- Chronic Discomfort: My back has been sore, and I often complain about it to my kids, who are then tasked with giving me back rubs. I instruct them to use their elbows, and though it hurts, it’s a familiar pain I’ve come to accept as part of aging.
- TV Preferences: I’ve started recording late-night shows like The Tonight Show. As much as I appreciate the humor, I prefer my sleep over staying up late. Who really stays awake that long anymore?
- Game Shows: I find myself tuning into Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. Admittedly, I get a rush when I know the answers, reminiscent of a bingo game. I won’t actively turn on these shows, but if they’re on, I’m not changing the channel.
- Weather Savvy: I can accurately predict the week’s weather, having anticipated a cold front recently. My kids know better than to leave the house without a jacket, and I always have an umbrella on hand—preparedness is key.
- Random Aches: Right now, my neck and thumb are sore for no apparent reason. These unexpected pains have become a part of my existence, and I find myself relying on Bengay for relief. The scent of menthol has become all too familiar, reminding me of lost youth.
- Slang Confusion: I admit, I’m out of the loop when it comes to contemporary slang. Terms like “bae,” “fleek,” and “turnt” mean nothing to me. I still use phrases from my youth and often find myself searching online for the latest teen vernacular.
- Social Media Fatigue: I gave Snapchat a try but found it frustrating and pointless. With my aging eyes, seeing the pictures without my glasses was a challenge, and the fleeting nature of the messages made it even less appealing.
- Child Interaction: Small children can be overwhelming. My own kids are capable of making breakfast without my help, which I prefer on lazy Sundays. I find myself anxious at the thought of spending time with younger kids; the baby phase feels long behind me.
- The Need for Sleep: Sleep is now a cherished luxury. If I’m not sleeping, I’m daydreaming about my next opportunity to catch some Zs. Social events seem less appealing if they interfere with my much-needed rest; I just can’t muster the energy to attend.
Reflecting on these signs, I realize that the passage of time inevitably changes us. The youthful version of myself would likely be disappointed, but I’m learning to embrace the wisdom and experiences that come with age. While I’m not ready to become a “cool grandma,” I’m stocking up on comforting items like hard candy and Bengay for what’s to come. For more insights on navigating life changes, check out this resource.
In summary, the signs of aging can manifest in various ways, from physical discomfort to changing social preferences. Embracing these changes with humor and grace can help ease the transition into this new chapter of life.