A Peaceful Retirement

 

Yesterday as the clerk rang up my groceries at Trader Joe's, he asked me what I had planned for the day.  "Chores," I answered, cheerfully.  "Are you going to do anything fun?" he persisted.  I felt a little bit annoyed, as I was just there to shop, not to explain how and why I spend my time.

I had run the dogs along the Walkydog that morning.  The exercise was energizing for all of us, and I love the buzz of endorphins it brings.  So do my canines.  I told him that I was looking forward to making delicious meals with all of the items I had purchased.

I thought about the times when I was a dance teacher making barely enough money to make ends meet.  Grocery shopping in those days took careful planning, so I that didn't go over my small budget.  My mom used to tell me on the phone that she wished I didn't have to work so hard.  It was a difficult and strenuous time, but I got through it.  Sometimes she would slip me a gift card for groceries in the mail.  It was our secret.  I always appreciated it.

So, now that I'm retired, it is a relief to be able to relax at the market and be able to buy what I want.  I can splurge on blueberries, raspberries, popsicles, cookies, and candy.  There was a time when I only made my desserts from scratch, and bought all of the ingredients in bulk.  There were no extras: no vacations, meals out, new clothes, etc.  It was part of the sacrifice of being a dance teacher.  

Tight finances make life very tense.  The man behind the register didn't really understand all that, but your priorities change as you age.  I am happy sitting on my porch, gazing at my glorious garden, and reading an entertaining library book.  A happy and peaceful retirement is built over time.  It takes planning and preparation.

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Hollyhocks, Roses, and a Green California Front Garden

 

With the change in weather we've been having, our gardens are lush and green!  Normally it is very hot and dry this time of year.  Right now, the weather reminds me of London or Alaska.  The roses love it.  If you zoom in on this photo, you can see the baby Algerian Tangerines on that tree on the left.

I was afraid that this rosebush had died last year, but it came back with a vengeance!  It's very fragrant and healthy.  The mulch seems to do an excellent job of slowly feeding everything.  I did notice some small snails out there, crunching under my hiking boots, this morning, though.  I plan to collect and remove them all this afternoon.  You always have to keep an eye on your plants and protect them.

The scarlet Hollyhocks are still bright and beautiful.  They are my favorite old fashioned flower.  They are so tall and colorful.   People stop and gaze at them when they walk by the house.  The vinyl fence has been an excellent investment, too.   It is such a relief not to have to paint it or worry about termites.  I may have the gates replaced, too.  My neighbor gave it to me. 

How is your garden growing?  I just finished the last of the ripe, orange apricots.  They were so sweet and juicy.

Thank you for your comments.  They add so much talent and energy to the blog.  Please reply in English.  I'm sorry, but those with links will not be published.  If you enjoy the posts here, please share them.  Comments may take a few days to appear; they are moderated.