August 27, 2015
It had been quite some time since we last ventured outdoors, and let me tell you, our garden and lawn were in serious need of some TLC. We spent the better part of the day outside, tackling weeds and filling up six yard waste bags. It felt amazing to finally take action! Our neighborhood property values seemed to bounce back to where they ought to be.
But come Sunday, I felt it. Every time I moved, it was like a reminder of my gardening escapades. My arms ached, my legs were sore, my shoulders had had enough, and my back? Well, let’s just say it was singing a painful tune. My husband was in the same boat. Meanwhile, our kids seemed completely unfazed by the labor (and yes, they had been right there working alongside us the entire time).
So, I woke up today and headed to the clinic where I work as a doctor to see my patients. I had managed to get through the initial temperature fluctuations of perimenopause and survived the physical aftermath of our weed war. By the time I arrived at the clinic, I was feeling significantly better. I got there early, ready to tackle the day, and struck up a conversation with one of the medical assistants. She was gushing about her adorable 3-year-old son, and I couldn’t resist asking to see a picture. Once she showed me the photo, I couldn’t help but compliment the little guy’s cuteness.
Then came the question that threw me for a loop. The medical assistant asked if I had any children or grandchildren. Grandchildren? This was a first for me, and while I am in my mid-40s, definitely at the right age to start thinking about being a grandmother, it made me ponder. Oh, how I dream of having grandchildren in my future! I’ll leave the rest to your imagination regarding the whirlwind of thoughts that danced through my head in response to that inquiry.
I often tell my kids how much I cherish each stage of life I’ve experienced, how life just keeps getting better and richer as I grow older. Deep down, I truly believe this. I’ve earned every hot flash (though I wouldn’t mind if they took a permanent vacation), every gray hair, and every muscle that protests after a long day of battling weeds. I’ve come to terms with the fact that it’s been ages since anyone asked for my ID. And you know what? I’m loving this no-drama, I-don’t-take-crap-from-anyone phase of life.
So, I’d like to kindly suggest that people ask me about my kids. When the day comes that I have grandchildren, I would appreciate it if you could react with surprise and mention how youthful I look to be a grandmother. And hey, don’t forget to crank up the air conditioning while you’re at it!
Eager for more? Check out our other blog posts, such as this one on home insemination kits for all your parenting needs. And if you’re looking for excellent resources on pregnancy, don’t miss out on March of Dimes.
In summary, life is a journey that keeps getting better with age, and while I’m embracing every moment, I look forward to that next chapter, hopefully filled with grandchildren.