Author: soloatsixty

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

Don’t you love those old Christmas songs? I do! Remember Christmas when you were a kid? The magic of the season? Looking through the Sears catalog (or Toys”R”Us for you younger folks) and dreaming of having all the special toys in the pictures. The anticipation of Santa’s arrival. On Christmas morning my kids would wake up and wait at the top of the stairs together before coming down to see what Santa left for them. They waited so that Mom (me) could get the video camera set up and record their first sight of Christmas. I treasured those moments and wanted to capture them forever. My Christmas joy. Santa did not wrap presents at our house, but left them by the hearth in line with each kid’s stocking, just like he did for my sisters and me when we were kids. However, I had some explaining to do since Santa DID wrap all the presents at our next-door neighbor’s house, where my son’s best friend lived. I told him our neighbor requested that of Santa, and somehow he believed it!

One year, my son and my next door neighbor’s son (both named Michael!) left Santa matching letters that all they wanted for Christmas was a tunnel between our houses so they could go back and forth all the time. (Like they didn’t do that already?!?!) So my neighbor and I wrote letters from Santa to the boys explaining why Santa could not build the tunnel that year. We used the same ink pen, paper, and I think only one of us wrote both letters – same handwriting. They fell for it hook, line and sinker! I loved playing Santa for my kids, keeping the Christmas magic alive for them.

“The love in our family flows strong and deep, leaving us memories to treasure and keep.”

Life is so simple for children who find Christmas joy easily. But we grow up and life happens. We become parents, have stressful jobs, and try to make it through each day, thinking, “if only there were more hours in the day.” And sometimes life throws us curve balls. As adults, we have to try a little harder than children to find that joy. But it is definitely there! I have always found joy in my Christmas traditions. As you know, I am not a big fan of change, so traditions followed us each year, especially at Christmas. But they were all fun and meaningful.

“The most treasured heirlooms are the sweet memories of our family that we pass down to our children.”

I went to a Christmas party 25 years ago in NC where the host family had decorated gingerbread houses. I saw how much fun this could be and decided I would do this with my family. I went home and made gingerbread houses for my kids to decorate and it soon became one of our most fun traditions at Christmas. All the kids decorated one, even the youngest in a high chair. Many years we invited friends and neighbors to join in. My children were very creative  and competitive in decorating their houses with ponds, sleighs, fire logs, wreaths, Christmas trees, snowmen… you name it! We used all sorts of candies (saved their Halloween candy every year) and always looked at candy as possible decorating material. Once their masterpiece was complete, I would sift powdered sugar over their creation as we all sang “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…” We decorated gingerbread houses through their college years. Last year, I continued this tradition with a very special group of children who were also experiencing a shake up in their family during the holiday season. What fun we had! We are going to do it again this year, and for many years to come.

Masterpiece!

So creative!

Such fun!

It was tradition that I got a new Christmas sweater each year. Many for my birthday (in November) and always one for the Christmas party my neighbor and I hosted for 15 years to kick off the Christmas season, get the ladies in our neighborhood together, and benefit a charity. I have quite a collection! And I have been sporting my collection each day since December 1st: “The 25 Days of Christmas Sweaters.” Here are this past week’s joyous sweaters!

I found Jingles the Elf!

Poolside Penguin!

Christmas Trees!

Fireside…

Yes it is me!

Christmas at work…

Who ME?!?!

Our family always sponsored children from an Angel tree at Christmas. This was a fun project for the kids when they were young, to shop for gifts for our “Angels”. I tried to choose children close to the ages of my kids. They got to “help” Santa and provide Christmas magic for someone else. It was a good reminder to them that there are many people less fortunate than they were. I continue this tradition each year.

When we were living in NC, Christmas breakfast at my sister’s house was the main event on Christmas day. Country ham, eggs, grits, pancakes, Moravian sugarcake, and fruit. And presents! (Does it get any better than that?!) I hosted Christmas dinner. Also fun! Once we moved to VA and stopped traveling for Christmas, we continued with a big traditional breakfast and Christmas dinner, all on Christmas china.

“Family, like branches on a tree, grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one.”

Last year, my first Christmas SOLO, my kids and I found ourselves looking to our traditions and each other for stability in our changing family life. So we had our traditional Christmas Eve dinner followed by church. We watched old Christmas movies till very late. But Christmas morning, they did not wait at the top of the stairs and let me videotape them! No, my older daughter and I went for a very early morning run and returned to wake up the others and have our traditional breakfast and open presents. My daughter and son-in- law went to his family for lunch and we all met back at my house for our traditional Christmas dinner. It was a wonderful Christmas with lots of fun, laughter, and love. No tears.

Today is my Granddawg Paige’s first birthday!  Happy Birthday sweet Paige! (Named after the great UNC basketball player, Marcus Paige!) Looking forward to her birthday pawty this weekend!

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…”

As we head into the final weeks before Christmas, look for traditions to rediscover or start in your family. Find your Christmas magic and share it. I plan to continue my traditions with my children. And I am thankful to be able to spend this weekend with my whole family, the people most important in my life, as we celebrate Christmas early and attend the candlelight Lovefeast at our home church, following our family traditions and making special memories. Try to spend time with those you love this Christmas season, because as we all know, none of us is promised tomorrow.

Merrily,

Leslie

“Happiness and cheer, fun for all, that children call, their favorite time of year…”

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

Christmas is definitely in the air. It is my favorite time of year. Yes, I love summer, but the excitement of Christmas is unparalleled. The smell of fresh Christmas trees, the beautiful decorations and lights, 25 days of Christmas sweaters (I began sporting my Christmas sweaters on December 1st and will continue until Christmas – see below), the holiday music, the wonderment on the faces of children seeing Santa, the frenzy of shoppers searching for that perfect gift. The panic of parents getting to the gym first thing and remembering “Oh Heck! Elfie needs to be moved before the kids wake up!”  (Elf on the Shelf)

December 1st

December 2nd

December 3rd

December 4th

December 5th

December 6th – Les on a Shelf!

“We miss something if we don’t see Christmas through a child’s eyes.”  Rosemary M. Wixom

Did you hear there is a new Elf on the market? No joking, it is the Kindness Elf. Unlike Elf on the Shelf, this Elf makes an appearance each morning with a kindness mission for kids and families. For example: today open the door for someone, make cookies for an elderly neighbor, sing Christmas carols at a nursing home. What better way to raise children in kindness? Also, Kindness Elf suggests fun things for families to do together such as piling in the car in your jammies to go look at Christmas Lights, dinner at a fun restaurant (no, not that fast food one again!), hot chocolate and ice skating. All to spotlight kindness and magic at Christmas time.

“Just remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.”  Santa Clause, Polar Express

I was at the mall this week and stopped to watch the children with Santa. There was a LONG line. I remembered standing in those lines. The Santa was a decent one, but geez, I have seen some Santas that I thought might have been pulled right off the street! Once I changed my mind about having my kids visit Santa at the mall after taking one look at him! Have you seen any like that? However, I loved taking my kids to see Santa when they were little, hoping to get that perfect picture for the grandparents. Most of the time, this was done at our church’s preschool where the REAL SANTA made an appearance. (Just look at Santa in the pictures below.) Depending on their age, the kids were either terrified of Santa or not interested in him at all, or they loved him and hammed it up for a great picture (and a candy cane).

My oldest giving her list…

My middle contemplating…

My youngest in awe…

My adorable great-nephew went to see Santa last weekend and was not impressed. My friend’s beautiful and spunky daughter also visited Santa and again, she was not buying it. I remember my son reacting the same way his first time. Now mind you, both of these precious children are only a year old and have not even made their Christmas lists yet! Just give them time. Soon they’ll run to see Santa with their lists and will be on their best behavior all of December (especially if Elf on the Shelf is watching!).

My great newphe, “Who is this man?”

“MOM I am not impressed!”

My son, not happy!

Don’t you wish you had created Elf on the Shelf?!? $$$ This was not around when my kids were young, but everyone I know with young children has one (or more!). Maybe adults need the Elf. Both the Kindness Elf and the “behavior” Elf. Actually, Elf is at my office. Yes, “Jingles the Elf” is hidden daily and the team member who finds him wins a prize for the day (we are all searching feverishly for it now!). Mind you, prizes are not behavior based (thank heavens!), and they sure are fun! Honestly, I don’t think most adults need the Elf at Christmas. This is the one time of year when people seem to be the most generous – volunteering and donating to more causes, attending church (you know the C&E attendees, Christmas and Easter, but hey, they are there!), going out of their way to brighten the holidays for those less fortunate. And people seem to generally be merry. Yet it is also a chaotic and stressful time with so many parties, baking, searching for presents, wrapping those presents, worrying about paying for those presents come January, and trying to do too much each day. With my new SOLO status and lifestyle, my life has become much less stressful during the holidays. There are less presents to search for, less family functions to attend. I discovered that stress is mostly self-created and I decided I would change direction and make the holidays more meaningful and joyful and less stressful. How? Less decorating for one. Two years ago I had 36 bins of Christmas decorations that I put out, this year only 8 bins, 2 which are my famous Christmas sweaters! I purchase fewer presents, instead concentrating on 3 gifts for each of my children and gifts for my family that are fun and more meaningful. And I am finding more time to enjoy the season by attending special events – tomorrow night I am going to a holiday candlelight tour of James Madison’s Montpelier, this weekend is my neighborhood’s Luminary and holiday party night.  I have my kids, my family, and friends, and am truly blessed.

“The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life better for those around us.” Terri Marshall

Christmas is not easy nor happy for everyone. It is a difficult time for those who have suffered losses. Grief doesn’t recognize holidays. And there is no time limit on grief. I know several families who will be spending this Christmas as the first without their loved ones. How can we help them through this holiday season? Remember their loved ones, share memories of them, cry with them, laugh with them, listen to them. Grief is real.

“Christmas… A season of blessing from heaven above, a season of sharing with all those we love, a season of caring, warmth and good cheer, a season of hope for the coming new year.”

It is also time to begin thinking about 2018. It will be here in 26 days y’all! Did you experience disappointment in 2017? Joy? Are you happy to say goodbye to 2017 and hello to 2018? What will you change in your life in 2018? What would make 2018 the happiest year for you so far? What challenges will you face in 2018? Start thinking about 2018… I am!

Take time to enjoy the Christmas season each and every day. Choose events and functions that are truly meaningful to you. Look for blessings daily. And share this season with those you love, because as we all know, tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

Merrily,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

I hope y’all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I did. I spent it with my family at the beach. Thanksgiving day was the first time I had seen my mom as a 60-year-old and her response was exactly as I had predicted. “Did you have a nice birthday?” “Yes, it was wonderful!” “How old are you now, 30’s?” (in all seriousness) “60.” “60?!? How can you be 60? How old am I?” “88.” “88?!? Are you sure? My hair is not white and I don’t have wrinkles. That smells bad (holding her nose for emphasis).” At this point, my son lost it with a mouthful of turkey. But that wasn’t all. Mom asked what we were going to do for the rest of the afternoon. “Well, we are taping the Carolina basketball game and going to watch it and probably take a nap. All this turkey is making me sleepy. It’s that Tryptophan.” “A trip to Japan?” I kid you not. We all lost it then. Mom is so entertaining! Bless her heart! (By the way, it is a myth that tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, makes you sleepy. However, is there anyone who is not sleepy after their Thanksgiving meal?!?)

Thanksgiving table…

Centerpiece… my sister is so creative!

OH Momma!

“What we’re really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean why else would they call it Thanksgiving.” Erma Bombeck

Friday night was so much fun y’all! We all went down to the Marshwalk in Murrells Inlet for dinner. The Marshwalk, similar to a boardwalk at the beach, was covered with Christmas lights. It was so beautiful! We walked the length of the Marshwalk while waiting for our table. Last year we ate outside and though it was mild, it was not quite as warm this year. Our restaurant has a live band every weekend but we never know what kind of music they will play. We were seated on the porch where the band was setting up. I looked at my sister and said  “maybe they will play some oldies.” She was doubtful. We decided to stay and listen to a couple of songs.  Well… they opened up with songs from the Doobie Brothers, Al Green, Four Tops, Bruno Mars, Commodores, and yes the Temptations, but it was “September” by Earth Wind and Fire that got my daughter and me up dancing. And dancing we did until we left an hour and a half later. The band was GREAT! Painted Man Band, a local band from the beach.

The Marshwalk…

End of the Marshwalk…

Fun night!

“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” Charles Schultz

On our way home, we stopped by a house in my sister’s neighborhood that goes WAY overboard with outdoor lights, but for a good cause. They take donations for their church. It is unbelievable! There is a combination of Frosty, Santa, Baby Jesus, and even a singing Bass fish! Over 30,000 lights and 500 man hours to set it up. Priceless.

Lights!

No words needed!

Nativity in lights…

It was hard leaving the beach – that sweet salty air. But I wanted to get home so I could decorate my house for Christmas. It’s going to be a busy December and this was my best opportunity. Besides, I always decorate right after Thanksgiving – I just cannot wait! My son-in-law’s Grandpa helped me get my tree. Remember last year when I called him to see if he would help me? And I failed to identify myself, but he said, “Sure! I am happy to help. Where should I meet you?”  Met him at Whole Foods (again this year) and he was happy to see what lady he was helping. Same thing this year except he knew it was me. Got a pretty tree and it is up and decorated in my den instead of the living room. Decided to put it where I can enjoy it every day. There’s nothing like that smell of a fresh Fraser Fir (except the beach air!).

I remember once when my neighbor was decorating her Christmas tree. It was the biggest tree I had seen! And it had toppled over a time or two. So her “fix”? She hung pocketbooks on the backside of the tree in the corner of her living room. Tree never fell over again! Pretty ingenious!

We can all learn something from gazing at our beautiful Christmas trees. Here are some lessons from my Christmas Tree (borrowed some):

1. Always be a light in the darkness.
2. Brighten someone’s day every day.
3. You were born to Sparkle.
4. We all fall over sometimes.
5. It’s ok to be a little tilted.

“Christmas waves a wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” Norman Vincent Peale.

This is my 2nd Christmas SOLO. Thankful to be where I am this year. Last year, I bought a lot of new decorations for my tree and my house. I added some new ones this year. I still have my starfish as my tree topper and saved all the ornaments that involved my kids, but discarded the others that were acquired over so many years, with so many memories that no longer hold special meaning. My tree decorations follow a different color scheme and center on family, love, friendship, the beach, and Carolina! When Mom moved to Assisted Living, we divided her special Christmas Village between my sisters and me, and gave one piece to each grandchild. My part of Mom’s Christmas Village occupies a special table near my tree. Christmas is so special to me. As I look around my decorated house, I am reminded of what is truly important in life – family and friends. The Christmas spirit.

Mom’s village…

OH Tannenbaum…

“Home is where love resides, memories are created, friends and family belong, and laughter never ends.”

We are at the end of November, our thankful month. Remember to take the time to think of something you are thankful for each day this week. Find the Christmas Spirit. And make an effort to reach out to those you love, because as we all know, none of us is promised tomorrow.

Best,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

I am 60. Sixty years old! Finally, legally SOLO at SIXTY! And happy about it! But geez…how did I get to be 60? I certainly don’t feel 60. Nor do I act 60. And I sure hope I don’t look 60! But 60 is the new middle-age, right?!?! And 6 and 0 is better than 5 and 9 any day in the sports world! (Just ask my Tar Heels!)

“I will never regret getting old. I know too many people who never had that privilege.”

Birthday Girls…

Sisters…

Remember when 60 seemed so old?!? Back when we were 20? I don’t really remember my 20th birthday, though I do remember my 18th birthday when I thought it was going to be all about me since that was a biggie – back then 18 was a BIG deal! But my birthday was all about my older sister because she was getting married! They are celebrating 42 years of marriage TODAY! I am so proud of them. Thankfully, my cheerleader friends made my 18th birthday very fun at our Fall Sports Banquet that year. I remember how special my 30th birthday was – I brought my younger daughter home from the hospital on my 30th birthday. Best birthday present ever! I worried over my 40th birthday – we had just moved to Charlottesville several months earlier and I thought I would have no one to celebrate my 40th with me. I had celebrated all of my girlfriends’ 40th birthdays in NC because I was the youngest. But up here I was one of the oldest! Low and behold, my dear neighbor (yes the one who moved to KY) and my girlfriends decorated my yard with lovely pink flamingoes, signs, and toilet paper. It was wonderful! My mom and her sister, my Aunt Jewelle, drove up to surprise me at a birthday lunch my neighbor had planned for me. Love my girlfriends! And my 50th? My sweet older daughter planned a surprise party for me with my girlfriends at my sister’s house when she still lived up here. So I have celebrated all my “BIG ZERO” birthdays in grand fashion. And I have never fretted over aging. Thankful for it actually.

“Age is an attitude, not a number.”

But seriously, I am so happy to be 60. To be where I am in my life’s journey. I have been through and learned a lot in my 60 years. I have loved and lost, endured heartache and survived, built a wonderful life for my family and now for me SOLO. And I have grown. I have discovered who I am beyond being someone’s wife (ex), mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin. I am me and I love who I am today. Although I loved being in all of those “roles”, I have truly enjoyed discovering who Leslie is. I learned how strong I can be when needed. I learned to turn heartache into happiness, devastation into opportunity, and everyday life into fun and adventure. And I also know the best is yet to come.

“Know that you are the perfect age. Each year is special and precious, for you shall only live it once.” Louise Hay

So what have I learned in my 60 years? Well I am still learning, but here is my TOP 12:

1. Change happens and it is ok. What seems like the end of the world may be the beginning of the best part of your life.
2. It is ok to splurge on yourself. Have your nails done. Have someone else clean your house. Buy those running shoes in every color and plenty of Lululemon pants!
3. You can live without a man in your life, but not without your sisters and girlfriends. Sisters and girlfriends are there for you and support you no matter what.
4. Most people would rather have your time than a gift. I always tell my children that I don’t want a gift; I want them to write a letter to me. And I save and treasure every one.
5. Forgive those who have wronged you. You don’t have to forget, but do forgive. Not for them, but for you! You only hurt yourself if you concentrate on who has done you wrong because honestly, they do not care, or they would not have hurt you in the first place.
6. You slow down when you age. And it is ok. Not running those 7 minute miles anymore! (Did I ever?) But I am still running and active and that is the important thing.
7. Always be kind. You never know what the other person is going through. Just always be kind. We need more kindness in this world.
8. Senior Discounts are GREAT! “Are you a senior?” “Depends on how much the discount is!” “Oh, yes, I am a senior!”
9. Always use sunscreen. And wear a hat in the sun. And if you can’t reach that spot in the middle of your back, get a Bendable Body Wand!
10. Be truthful. The truth ALWAYS comes out. Own up to your mistakes immediately. It makes life easier.
11. Look forward in life, not backwards. Your future is so much more important than your past. “There’s a reason the windshield is so big and the rear view mirror so small.”
12. “There is always, always, always something to be thankful for.” Look for it.

“Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that people who have the most, live the longest.”

My 60th birthday has been the best yet! And like a broken record, I have to repeat myself with “what a great weekend I had”. My sister and brother-in-law came for the weekend. My daughter’s 30th birthday was Friday, my 60th Monday. Saturday we celebrated together at King Family Vineyard with a “Cheers to 30 Years Plus 30 More” party! What fun to share the afternoon with our friends and family! And what a beautiful November afternoon it was. We set up outside and celebrated with wine, appetizers, and cake for hours! It was lovely to have my friends, who all know my daughter, and my daughter’s friends, who all know me, celebrating together. Like I said before, my kids have the nicest friends! And so do I!

30 Years Plus 30 More!

Girlfriends!

Cheers to dear Girlfriends…

And then there was Monday… my actual birthday. OH MY GOODNESS I cannot begin to tell you how special I felt! My team decorated not only my office, but our floor for my birthday. (I posted a video on SOLO at SIXTY’S facebook page). The time they spent getting pictures chronicling parts of my life, mounting and hanging them, not to mention all the “60” decorations, meant the world to me. Yes I cried. Because, not only did they get pictures, but they all know how much I love inspirational quotes and they found very special ones for me and posted them on my windows and hung them from the ceilings. And all were two-sided with separate sayings. This took a lot of thought, preparation, and effort and I appreciate it more than they will ever know. I continue to brag about the team I work with. I am so thankful for and love them!

The hall…

Do I look the same?!?!

Inside my office…

Outside my office…

My birthday was topped off with dinner out with my younger daughter to celebrate our birthdays followed by our tradition of getting Gelato (pumpkin for me, hazelnut for her). Perfect ending to a perfect birthday.

Birthday dinner…

Tradidional Gelato!

“A birthday is just the beginning of another 365 journey around the sun. Enjoy.”

Let’s not forget that November is our thankful month. I was blessed beyond imagination with so many things to be thankful for this past week. And with Thanksgiving tomorrow, we all need to stop and be thankful for all of our blessings. I wish for all y’all a blessed Thanksgiving. Enjoy your families and friends and let them know how thankful you are for them, because as we all know, tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

Blessings,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

We are still in the thankful month of November. Did you take time to think of one thing you were thankful for each day? Can you believe how blessed we all are?

I spent last week in Williamsburg, VA – Strategic Planning for work. Fall was in the air as we arrived to cold, rainy weather. Luckily,  the weather cleared and I was so thankful to be able to run on the beautiful property. We do get time to workout because, after all, we are a health club! It is always such fun and very productive to get together with teammates from all of our clubs to plan for the next year, set our goals, and brainstorm on how we can better ourselves and our clubs. I work with great people.

Meeting site!

Beautiful views…

My room’s view…

For one of our sessions, we took a “test” on Emotional Intelligence. Supposedly there were NO wrong answers, but somehow I had to repeat my test. Just saying. I scored very high on Happiness and Optimism, but very low on Adaptability – imagine that! Remember? I really do not like change!

“If Plan A didn’t work, remember there are 26 more letters.”

Strategic planning started me thinking about what plans I have for my life. Obviously, Plan A did NOT pan out like I thought! I had to regroup and figure out Plan B and how I was going to live my life in my new status – SOLO.  Luckily for me, the big decisions were already figured out for me: where I was going to live and where I was going to work. I was already moving into a new home (which I love), in a maintenance free neighborhood – perfect for a SOLO lady! Thankfully, I had a good job surrounded by supportive and caring teammates. With the big decisions settled, I had to decide HOW I was going to live my life. Was I going to crawl back in bed, pull the covers over my head and feel sorry for myself? Or was I going to look at this new “status” as an opportunity to discover what life really has to offer? I wanted to live with NO REGRETS. I would try to take the high road in dealing with my situation, as hard as that might be (and trust me, it was difficult at times). I would concentrate on my kids and myself. And I did. I did not want my children to bear the brunt of my new status. I did not want their lives to change. And I did not want them to worry about their Mom. She would be ok. Better than ok. She would THRIVE! So with Plan B I decided I would keep myself busy, especially weekends – working, beach trips as often as possible, fun plans with my kids, friends and family, and writing. Thankfully doing many things I had wanted to do but never seemed able to find the time or opportunity before. Now life would be on my timeline. And honestly, I love Plan B! And if for some reason Plan B fails, there is always Plan C. You see, I am working on that Adaptability trait.

“Today I know that I cannot control the ocean tides. I can only go with the flow of life.”

Plan B, being SOLO, brought about some challenges. Remember how I could never get suntan lotion in the middle of my back? That was solved with the Bendable Body Wand. As there is no longer a strong hand around to open jars/bottles/etc., I needed a new SOLO solution. Found the answer at TJ Maxx for $4.99 (also saw one at Mast General in Winston-Salem for $8.00) – the easi-TWIST. With this I can open anything. Problem solved. Solo! I am adapting well to the SOLO life! (Maybe I need to take that Emotional Intelligence test once more since I am becoming more adaptable!)

“Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me.” Carol Burnett

Once again, I had another good and busy weekend (part of Plan B!). My older daughter and son-in-law came for the weekend. Winter was the word of the day Saturday as my daughter and I went out to run in 27 degrees. She is the only one who can get me out in such cold weather. What a difference a week makes! Last Monday I was running in shorts and a tank top, and Saturday I was in 3 layers with gloves and hand warmers. Oh my, I am NOT ready for cold weather. However, I was so thankful to get to run with her. Cold weather or not!

“Your life doesn’t get better by chance, it gets better by change.”

I have to add that I was extremely thankful that my HEELS finally won a pretty big football game! Actually, just the fact that they finally WON a football game. And more thankful that basketball season started with a big win. WOOHOO! Lots to look forward to.

Speaking of looking forward, next Monday is my 60th Birthday Y’all! I am so excited and thankful to turn 60. Finally, legally SOLO AT SIXTY! There will be lots to celebrate as my younger daughter also turns 30. We’re going to celebrate “30 YEARS PLUS 30 MORE” together.

Remember to pause and reflect on all the blessings in your life this week. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how rich you are. And make an effort to spend time with those you love, because as we all know, none of us is promised tomorrow.

See you next week when this SOLO gal is 60!

Thankfully,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

I went to a yoga class this week. (Namaste Y’all!) The instructor spoke in the beginning about how it finally felt like the first day of fall – gray and chilly. A new season. She asked us to think about “what is going to support us in this new season.” And then we were told to set our “intention” as to what that would be. I thought about it and realized that my “intention” for the rest of this year is “Thankfulness”. Being thankful for all that is right and good in my life, and also for what might not be so great in my life. Because no matter what, every day that I wake up, I am thankful to be here. Plus I know that I am blessed and have so much to be thankful for. I just need to be more mindful.

Did you remember from last week that November is our “Thankful Month”? Did you take a minute each day this past week to stop and think of something you are thankful for? Were you surprised at all of your blessings? Did it change your outlook?

“Remember being happy doesn’t mean you have it all. It simply means you’re THANKFUL for all you have.”

I focused on all the blessings in my life this past week. And there were many.  I went out to run one day at noon in heavenly 75 degree weather (thankfully in shorts and a tank top I might add!). Came back to the club, showered and went back to work. That evening as I was getting ready to go out to dinner, I looked for my special necklace to wear. It was not in the box I always keep in my gym bag. Where could it be? OH NO! I then remembered that I had forgotten to take it off before my run (I don’t like to run with it on) so I had run back in the club, and hung it in my locker. And I left it there. I called the club in a panic to see if anyone had turned it in. Who would turn in a valuable necklace like this one?!? Nope, not in Lost and Found. I told them which locker I had used (I always use the same one – imagine that!) and when they checked – low and behold, it was still hanging there! I was thankful beyond belief! What a blessing!

I also tried to take every opportunity to find and share happiness (which is a blessing in itself). My older daughter teaches a great cycle class at our club in Richmond on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. But it is at 6:30 am and an hour away. Oh how I wish she lived closer to me! Last Thursday, my younger daughter and I decided we would surprise my older daughter, so we drove to Richmond to take her cycle class. Left home at 5 am to get there. And surprise her we did! The look on her face when she saw us made my heart melt. She said it made her day. Made ours too. What a great instructor she is! I was so thankful we could and did do this.

Ready for the surprise!

My daughter the instructor!

“We don’t need more to be THANKFUL for, we just need to be more THANKFUL.”

Then on Friday, my younger daughter hit a deer on the way to work. Actually, she got hit by a deer. (Anyone see the Gilmore Girls episode where Rory got hit by a deer? I thought no way. Well, yes way!) She watched several deer cross the road in front of her and after they crossed the road, she sped up. Only to get hit by one last deer. Out of nowhere. She was not hurt, just so upset. She worried about the deer. She stopped, but did not get out, and did not see the deer anywhere. The deer ran off, most likely with part of her grill. Thankfully, she was not hurt, no one else was involved, and she has insurance. Only her car was damaged which can be repaired. As I told her, now she will get all of the “dings” fixed on her car. Lots to be thankful for there.

“Be THANKFUL for every mountain, because it’s the mountain top that will give you the best view of the world.”

My daughter went to the funeral of a co-worker this week. A mom, 61 years old. Basically my age. She said the service was very uplifting and the minister said that when this mom told him she was dying, he asked if she had any regrets. She replied that she wished she had prioritized things in a better way. That she had not put off having coffee with friends when they always said “let’s get together”. Or doing things she really wanted to do. I have tried to follow this advice this year in my new SOLO life. I have gone to the beach every opportunity I could find. And met friends for lunch, dinner, glass of wine, anywhere and everywhere. I am so thankful to have done this.

And actually, I met an “old” friend I had not seen in over a year for drinks after work last week. Oh my goodness how much fun it was to catch up and joke around again. So thankful for this opportunity to catch up and enjoy being able to sit outside in November. Also went to dinner with another friend as an early birthday celebration. I plan to celebrate all month long!

I hope you will join me in focusing on our blessings. We all have so much to be thankful for, but if we do not make the effort to be mindful of the good things in our lives, they slip right past us. We take them for granted.

“Sometimes we don’t notice the small prayers being answered, the unspoken prayers, the wishes. May we stop and take account, and give thanks.”

According to Forbes Magazine, gratitude improves not only your psychological health but also your physical health. Gratitude increases happiness and reduces depression. Grateful people tend to sleep better, eat healthier, exercise more and generally take better care of themselves. WOW! These are “great” reasons to be grateful!

This is what I am most thankful for every day! My happy, wonderful kids!

My Son – and Favorite Guy!

My daughters and son-in-law.

What is your “intention” for the remainder of 2017? Could it also be thankfulness? How will you let it improve your life? Your outlook? Your relationships? Make an effort every day this month to stop and be thankful for something in your life. I believe you will notice a big change in your outlook. And make an effort to spend time with those you love, because as we all know, none of us is promised tomorrow.

“As you start and end your day, be THANKFUL for every little thing in your life. You will come to realize how blessed you truly are.”

See you next week,

Thankfully,

Leslie

Oh Lord! Not me, obviously!

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

I made a brick last Wednesday. Actually 2 bricks. I went to James Madison’s Montpelier, where they have been making bricks. Their archeology department recently discovered 2 buildings, and these bricks will be used in their reconstruction. To date, they have made around 8,000 bricks. It was not easy work! Dry clay was brought in from Williamsburg (they didn’t want to disturb their excavation area at Montpelier). Water was added and employees and volunteers “tread” the mud (just like mashing grapes – remember that “I Love Lucy” episode?!?!). Luckily, I did not have to take my shoes off and tread the mud. Once the mud reached a peanut butter consistency, I was given slab of clay, formed it in the shape of a ball, and rolled it in sand to prevent it from sticking to the brick molds. Believe me it was hard work getting the clay in the molds! I then used a strike to scrape the extra clay off the top of the mold. Our guide turned my bricks out to dry for several days, and eventually they will be fired for use. I was able to put my initials and thumbprint on my bricks. (Notice mine are not perfectly rectangular – told you it was hard work! But they will still be used.) My bricks will be part of the foundation of a historic building. How cool is that?

“Whatever good things we build, end up building us.”

Bricks…

Smoothing out…

My initials!

Ok funny story to share here. The song “Brick House”? Well… it was popular while I was at Carolina. My roommate was dating a football player whose first name was (still is) Rick. He was (still is) a BIG guy! I mean, he was a linebacker after all. Anyway, we called him “Rick House” after the song. When I sent them my wedding invitation, I addressed it to my roommate and Mr. Rick House. When my roommate commented how funny that was, I said I did not get it. What was funny? I had called him Rick House for so long I forgot it was not his real last name! I was so blonde (still am)! They got married (still are). Very proud of them. They have “the foundation.”

I believe it is important to have a strong foundation in our lives. My mother gave my sisters and me a strong foundation and set a great example of goodness and independence for us to follow. As I have said before, I come from a line of strong women who successfully enjoyed life SOLO. My mother set rules for us girls and we followed them (pretty much). I never wanted to do anything that might embarrass my mother. I respected her too much. We went to church. Every Sunday. She showed us through example that if someone was sick, or there was a death, you help out – take dinner, bake a cake, offer assistance in whatever area they need. (We did joke with Mom that she should read the obituaries and take a pie to a widower! She did not think that was funny. But I have a friend whose mother passed away and the women were bringing lots of pies! Oh Lord, don’t let my children get this idea!) Mom loved us dearly and did everything for us. We always had a new outfit (which she lovingly made) for every special occasion and holiday. I remember her being up late the night before every Easter finishing our Easter outfits. She encouraged, supported, and expected a lot from us.

I have tried to give my kids a strong foundation. They were loved unconditionally. (Still are.) They were expected to behave, be polite and respectful, be fair and honest, be kind, and do well in school. When my children were little, I went to a parenting seminar, where I learned that parents should EXPECT, not hope, that their kids behave. And I learned it is ok to say “because I said so” (which is good since I used it often!). When we moved to Charlottesville, one of the first things we did was find a church. In Winston-Salem we were Moravians and went to church almost every Sunday. Wanted to continue that foundation in our new city, even though there were no Moravians here. We became Presbyterians, while maintaining our Moravian roots. All my children went through confirmation. Maybe they do not attend church regularly now, but they have that foundation they can build upon.

“A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him.” David Brinkley

I have also tried to set a good example for my children. I want them to know that love, honesty, and respect are the building blocks for life. Thankfully, I established a firm foundation in my own life BD (before divorce) that carried me through AD (after divorce) –  my wonderful job and co-workers, my support group made up of my children, sisters, and girlfriends. My faith. Yes I had doubts, but I never lost my faith. And look where I am now, 18 months later. Successfully navigating life SOLO and very happy! Honestly, I love living SOLO. Never had the chance as I graduated from college and got married without ever living on my own, doing what I want whenever I want with whoever I want. Life goes on, and life is good.

“Whatever life gives you, even if it hurts you, just be strong. Remember: Strong walls shake but never collapse.”

Notice I did not start this blog with “I had the best weekend”. I could have – it was GREAT once again! After making my bricks and having lunch with my daughter, who works at Montpelier, I drove to the beach for a couple of days. Needed that beach air, sunshine, and ocean to renew my soul. It worked. It was beautiful and warm down there. Heaven on earth. My foundation. Luckily, my sister was there as well. Hated to leave but did not want to miss the UNC-Miami game in Chapel Hill Saturday. Yes, another loss, but it was still such a beautiful, fun day tailgating with my children and seeking that win, even though it eluded us once again. Carolina football is rebuilding their foundation this year. Laying “bricks” for next year. Just keep those “bricks” away from the basketball team.

Ahhh… heaven…

Sisters…

Bell Tower… Carolina skies!

Game time!

“There is always, always, always something to be thankful for.”

Today is November 1st. First day I can “legally” begin listening to Christmas music (according to my kids). For you XM Radio users, channel 70 is the Holly Channel starting today! Besides November being MY birthday month (WOOHOO!), I always consider November to be a “Thankful” month. I am so blessed to have wonderful kids, family, and friends to share my life with. Take time every day this month to stop and be thankful for something in your life. I believe you will surprise yourself with all of your blessings. And make an effort to spend time with those you love, because as we all know, none of us is promised tomorrow.

“The thankful heart opens our eyes to a multitude of blessings that continually surround us.” James E. Faust

See you next week!

Thankfully,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

Yes I know… I seem to keep starting my blogs with “What a great weekend I had.” But luckily, and truly, I have had the best weekends! Each and every weekend. And this past weekend did not let me down. It started Friday. It was a beautiful sunny, warm day. One NOT to be spent inside. Not your typical late October weather. Met a friend and tried a new place for lunch, the Market at Grelen, which is actually a nursery with the coolest shop and cafe. I went for lunch but left with a few plants! After that, we visited Barboursville Vineyard for a wine tasting. It was wonderful! There were 18 wines on the tasting. Wanting to enjoy the weather, we went to their Library as well to split a flight of their “special” wines – 6 more. Lovely. Sat out on their patio and enjoyed the view of the vineyard and mountains. Left with 2 bottles and 2 glasses. (I have started a collection of winery glasses.) As if I hadn’t tried enough wines, we made one more stop at a small vineyard, Chestnut Oak Vineyards, since it was still open and on our way back to Charlottesville. It did not disappoint! Another wonderful tasting and beautiful scenery.

Cheers!

Special flight…

What a view…

Saturday morning my younger daughter and I headed to DC for the weekend. We checked into our hotel, and headed out to meet her DC friends for lunch on the rooftop of Bar Deco. It was a gorgeous day and my daughter’s friends are wonderful. (All of my kids have the best friends!) After lunch we visited the Renwick Gallery (part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum) for an interesting exhibit “Murder is her Hobby: Frances Glessner Lee and the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death.” From 1943-1953, Lee, considered to be the “Mother of Forensic Science”, built very detailed miniatures of actual crime scenes (like little doll houses) to train homicide detectives in the determination of cause of death. Each piece was so detailed that she knitted stockings with straight pins, used real tobacco to roll tiny cigarettes, and wrote tiny letters with a single hair paint brush. Incredible. After we finished the exhibit it was too late to visit any other museums, so we walked to the monuments. Always memorable.

Renwick Museum

Murder Nutshell!

Monuments….

My girl and me…

But, as memorable as the monuments were, they were not the reason for the trip. The main focus of my weekend was the MARINE CORPS MARATHON. NO, I was not running it! My younger daughter was running it. We took the metro before sunrise to the marathon. She went to the starting line and I found my way to the best viewing spot. I must admit, I was totally out of my comfort zone navigating the unknown area alone. However, now that I am SOLO, I find myself much more confident, independent, and willing to go outside my comfort zone. Saw her run by in the beginning of the race and she saw me and waved, and the spectator beside me said, “Oh I am going to cry – I just saw your face when you saw your runner.” I was crying! It is very emotional. The race first began with the wheelchair and duo racers. I watched people in wheelchairs with no legs – their arms pedaling as fast as they could, and duos –  people pushing others who were unable to run for many reasons. Then there were runners carrying large American flags, even blind runners with guides. But mostly, I was emotional for my daughter starting out on a 26.2 mile journey. I headed to the next good viewing spot around mile 11, at the Lincoln Memorial. While waiting to see her, I felt as if I was in an episode of “Gomer Pyle USMC” as the Marine Corps Pep band continuously played the Marine’s Hymn (“From the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli…).  Shazaam! Truly the Marine Corps Marathon is a great spectator race.

Marathon!

Marathon morning!

“Courage doesn’t mean you don’t get afraid, courage means you don’t let fear stop you.” Bethany Hamilton

However, just as life is unpredictable, so was her marathon. She was running very well until about mile 9. Then her hips locked up. She made it to mile 10 and felt she could not continue. I met her at mile 10 and she stopped. She was so upset to not finish. Felt like a failure. But she is NOT a failure. How many people are even brave enough to attempt a marathon? 26.2 miles. Running a half marathon of 13.1 miles and turning around and running it again. I could not do it. Not many runners I know could or would do it. But she tried and I am so proud of her for that. It was on her bucket list that she makes every birthday. She has run 4 half marathons plus the Charlottesville 10-miler and the Women’s 4-miler many times, but this was her first marathon. She kept it fairly quiet, telling only her siblings and closest friends. And hated to tell them she did not finish. Life doesn’t always go like we plan. It rarely does.

“I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying.”  Michael Jordan

Once my daughter realized she physically could not continue, and was able to wrap her mind around it, she was okay. Disappointed. But okay. Her siblings and I are so very proud of her for attempting this feat. She is a trooper. And I am so impressed by the love and support she received from her siblings and friends when she told them she did not make it. One friend texted her ‘Your race today has no impact on what you choose to do next! If you are done with long distance running – that is a great realization. If you are more motivated to improve as a distance runner now and try another marathon, that is also great.’  How true is that!?! We should never let any one event define us or deter us from anything we want to do. We are all so much more than that.

“Like the marathon, life can sometimes be difficult, challenging and present obstacles, however if you believe in your dreams and never give up, things will turn out for the best.”  MEB

When life does not go as we plan or think it should, we must try a different path. Never give up. When I became SOLO, so much changed in my life. But the important things remained constant. What did not change? The love and support of my children, family, friends and co-workers. I found a way to forge ahead on a new path. I went out of my comfort zone and found life is truly fun and exciting. And I am very happy. Try something out of your comfort zone. Be brave. Be strong. Take a chance. Don’t be afraid to fail. Not all failures are really failures. Some are just stumbling blocks that build character and make us stronger. It’s how you react after a failure that counts.

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill.

Spend some time this week with those you love, because as we all know, tomorrow is not promised to any of us. And don’t forget – Hallmark Christmas movies start this weekend – October 27th ! OH YES!

See you next week.

Best,

Leslie

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

Ok… It’s not what you‘re thinking!

Blue first. CAROLINA BLUE! Once again, what a fun weekend I had. I met my kids in Chapel Hill Friday night for LATE NIGHT WITH ROY, and it did not disappoint. What is LATE NIGHT all about? It is a night of entertainment by the Carolina Men’s and Women’s basketball teams complete with skits, dancing, and eventually an exhibition of basketball. This year’s LNWR was very special as the 2017 MEN’S NCAA BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP banner was hung in the rafters alongside the ones from 1924, 1957, 1982, 1993, 2005, and 2009. Honestly, it was incredible! The Dean Dome was PACKED. When my older daughter was at Carolina, she was the student sports marketing director for the Carolina Athletic Association and worked on Late Night with Roy for 3 years. I have not been to one since she graduated. My son loved LNWR as he was in Chapel Hill April 3rd for the championship game, celebrated the win on Franklin Street, saw the team receive their championship rings several weeks ago, and now, full circle, saw the banner!

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.”  Michael Jordan (GOAT – Greatest Of All Time!)

Packed Dean Dome!

Go Heels!

Joel Berry II

Count ’em 7 banners!

“Talent is a gift. But character is a choice.”  John Maxwell

Of course, we tailgated Saturday before the game. It was a beautiful summer- I mean fall- day and we enjoyed the sunshine playing corn hole, watching other games on TV, eating, drinking, and visiting with other tailgaters. We visited one tailgate whose theme was Breast Cancer Awareness. They gave out pink ribbons and had bras flying up their flagpole! Creative!

BRAS!!!

Chef Love….

My People!

“You learn more from failure than success. Don’t let it stop you. Failure builds character.”

And yes, we suffered another loss. This is a character building year for all Carolina Football fans. (Bring on BASKETBALL!) We stayed until the last second ticked off the clock, then walked to HE’S NOT HERE to drown our sorrows and get a PINK cup. This is Breast Cancer Awareness month and everything is pink, from the football players’ compression sleeves to UNC t-shirts to HE’S NOT HERE cups. By the way, these cups can hold a bottle of wine or a couple of beers – needless to say, I did not finish mine! But I wanted that pink cup. We all did. And we got ‘em.

HE’S NOT HERE, But we were!

Fun at the student store!

Is there anyone out there who does not know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer? No, I did not think so. Currently, I know 18 women, including my mother, who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Did you know that, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her life? Every 2 minutes a woman in the US is diagnosed with breast cancer and every 13 minutes, 1 woman dies of breast cancer.

“When life kicks you, let it kick you forward.”  Kay Yow (NCSU women’s basketball coach)

One of my dearest friends stayed with me last week as she was in town for her annual breast MRI and oncology appointment. She was diagnosed with breast cancer 6 years ago. Her family history with breast cancer is stronger than most – her mother died of it at the young age of 30, her aunts, cousin, and grandmother in their 40’s and 50’s. She had genetic testing to see if she had the gene for breast cancer. She did not, and she let her guard down. Skipped a Mammogram. Luckily, her breast cancer was found very early and after lumpectomies and radiation, her outcome was successful. Yet every year when it is time for her MRI, the fear of the unknown is forefront. Actually, it is always there, yet she does not live her life in fear; she lives in gratefulness. Though it is a big part of her life, she does not want breast cancer to be her identity nor does she want to be defined by it. Every woman’s journey is different. My sweet friend wants to tell all women not to skip their mammogram. And don’t take life for granted.

This week another friend shared with me that she has just been diagnosed with breast cancer. The mere word “cancer” struck fear in her like nothing else. It was caught early through her annual mammogram. She is a fighter. And she does not fall into any of the categories you would expect for this diagnosis – doesn’t smoke, is not overweight, works out all the time – except she is a woman. A cancer diagnosis is life changing – it can be life threatening. On a more positive note, there are 3.3 million breast cancer survivors in the US.

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop and look fear in the face.” Eleanor Roosevelt

So ladies, grab that courage and make an appointment today to get your mammogram. Mine is next month – I always schedule it in my birthday month. At my first mammogram, the technician had a heating pad on the metal plates. Ahhh… much more bearable. Of course that ended when the Fire Marshall squashed that plan (yes a pun intended!). Mammograms are not the most enjoyable experiences, but are vital. Don’t underestimate the importance of a breast self exam – no one knows your ta-tas like you do! And if someone else knows them better, make sure they tell you if there is a change! Be proactive with your health. Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week. Limit your alcohol to 1 glass of wine or beer a day (or less). But most importantly, don’t let what happens to you, define you. It is how you react to what happens to you that defines you and your character. We all face obstacles in our lives, be it an illness, death, or loss, but life goes on. If there is one thing I have learned being SOLO, it is that life goes on and I am stronger and better for it.

Spend time with those you love, because as we all know, tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

See you next week,

Best,

Leslie
Continue reading “PINK AND BLUE…”

O’Keeffe that is!

Welcome back to SOLO at SIXTY!

What a fun weekend I had! My younger daughter and I traveled to Winston-Salem, NC (our hometown) Friday evening to celebrate my sister’s birthday and to experience Gallery Hop. What is Gallery Hop? Well, Winston’s downtown area has revitalized and there are many wonderful restaurants, shops, and art galleries. On the first Friday of each month, several downtown streets are closed to traffic, and the artisan galleries open their doors to the public, displaying their works. My sister is a talented artist. She shares a studio, “Art Cellar Studio”,  with 2 other artists. Their studio and the other artists in their building participated in Gallery Hop. It was a lovely night – the weather was perfect! We met my sister and brother-in-law downtown at Sweet Potatoes for a wonderful dinner and were able to eat outside. Then we visited her studio and the others in her building, where I got to see a high school friend whose career is that of a truly accomplished, professional artist. We spent the evening strolling downtown, going in and out of other galleries and shops. By the way, my sister sold 2 paintings Friday night!

“Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.”

My sister’s art!

High school friend, Patti Bailey Sheets, Artist!

Very cool pottery…

“To create one’s own world takes courage.” Georgia O’Keeffe

Saturday morning we toured Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Their featured exhibition, “Georgia O’Keeffe: Living Modern” is wonderful! I thought I knew who Georgia O’Keeffe was – I mean everyone recognizes her red poppy picture, right? But that one was not even included in the exhibition. After viewing the exhibit, I realized that I truly had no idea who Georgia O’Keeffe was. She was a modernistic artist whose dominant colors were black and white in both her art and her clothing. She was discovered and made famous by her well-known photographer husband who loved photographing her. Honestly, looking at some of her art, you wonder if someone else had painted and presented these pieces, would they have been considered valuable art? Then there are others that take your breath away. What dynamics. By the way, O’Keeffe spent time in VA, specifically in Charlottesville and studied art at UVA!

Impressive!

Fun!

“I often painted fragments of things because it seemed to make my statement as well as or better than the whole could.” Georgia O’Keeffe

More than O’Keeffe’s art was on exhibit. Photographs of her taken by Alfred Stieglitz (her husband), Ansel Adams and others, as well as many of her garments were displayed. She was known for wearing black and white and nothing was ever “fitted”. She made her early clothes and the detail of the garments was astounding. To this end, O’Keeffe reminds me of my grandmother Isabel, also an artist, who also made her clothes in such a detailed way. Both women were widowed at an early age, and both were extremely independent and strong women. But my grandmother loved colors in her clothing and in her art. O’Keeffe did not venture away from black and white until later in life when she moved from New York to New Mexico and the natural colors of the landscape and sky inspired her. Still, in most of the photographs and portraits she is clothed in black. And truly, you cannot tell if she is male or female, an example of her beliefs relating to “modern art, women’s culture, and identity formation.”

“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life – and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.” Georgia O’Keeffe

O’Keeffe lived to the age of 98. She suffered from macular degeneration – how tragic for an artist.

Besides the O’Keeffe exhibit, we also toured the house and enjoyed the history surrounding this wonderful treasure. My daughter loves history and in the last couple of years I too have developed a greater interest. I cannot believe I lived in Winston-Salem for 40 years and never visited Reynolda House. Why is that? What a treasure it is. It was the country estate of RJ Reynolds (of tobacco fame – you’ve heard of Winston and Salem cigarettes?). Reynolds was credited with the economic development of Winston-Salem and was well known for his charitable contributions. His wife, Katherine, is responsible for the country estate which originally spanned 1,067 acres, and named it Reynolda (the feminine version of Reynolds). It was a model farm, producing all of their food, meat, and milk – the most modern dairy in the country at the time. In addition to the large house (they referred to it as a bungalow, but with 8 bedrooms and 15 bathrooms, is that a bungalow?), there were horses, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a bowling alley, and even a golf course on site. Reading about their lives made me think of “Dynasty”. Remember that show back in the 1980’s? The glamorous and social lives of these people!

Funny story here about my Mom and grandmother: When my grandmother (a history buff) was still living, my mother would bring her up to visit me in Charlottesville and I would always plan a historic tour of Monticello (home of Thomas Jefferson), or Highland (home of James Monroe). The last time we went to Highland, as I was purchasing our tickets, my grandmother said, “Why are we here?” “This is the home of James Monroe.” “Is he gonna be here?” “Lord I hope not – he has been dead for a LONG time.” “Then why are we here?” “Because it is history.” At this point I am paying for our tickets when my proper grandmother replies, “I don’t give a S#%T about history.” To which my also proper mother said, “You do like history Momma!” What she really liked was lunch at Michie’s Tavern on site! I thought the lady giving me our tickets was going to choke trying NOT to laugh. My mother was mortified! Today, this would be my mom and me … we have come full circle. And my poor children are thinking this will soon be their mother and them!

“History has no present – only the past rushing into the future. To try to hold fast is to be swept aside.”  John F. Kennedy

Reynolda House opened as a museum in 1967 and now boasts over 200 pieces of art. Wake Forest University sits on donated land from the Reynolds family. The 650 acres, including Reynolda Gardens, were donated to entice the university to move the campus. It worked.

So to continue celebrating my sister’s birthday, we picked up my brother-in-law and drove out to Jones-Von Drehle Vineyards and Winery in Thurmond, NC (about an hour from Winston). We had a wine tasting which was a lot of fun for my daughter who pours wine a couple weekends a month in Virginia. The owner, who was familiar with our Virginia wineries, poured for us which made it more special. We all got a glass of wine and toasted my sister’s birthday and enjoyed the scenery of the winery. Finished the day meeting my younger sister and mom for a birthday dinner downtown at West End Cafe. Bless her heart, but Mom kept asking “is it my birthday?” What a fun weekend and so special to celebrate my sister’s birthday in person.

“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it is called the present.”

We did miss the Carolina game (another loss) but will be back tailgating when UNC hosts UVA Saturday. Yes, another fun weekend planned! I am so lucky to be able to spend time with my family. Go out and visit a museum or an art gallery. Broaden your horizons like I am as I keep myself busy, discovering new hobbies and embracing who I am in the newest chapter of my life. Like Georgia O’Keeffe when she moved to New Mexico. There’s a wonderful, fun world out there. Take advantage of any opportunity to spend time with those you love, because as we all know, tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

See you next week.

Best,

Leslie