Growing Older

As I go about my daily chores. You know, the usual things; shopping, cleaning, cooking etc, I feel as young as ever. I sing along to the radio, wiggle my hips to my favourite songs (both classic and modern I hasten to add). I don't feel worn out or ancient. Oh no, not at all, I feel young, vibrant and happy go lucky. I stroll around the shopping mall without a care in the world. Then my children pay me a visit and all that changes.

For instance, I will give my opinion on some new fangled technology or new TV talent show and their response is usually the same "your so old" they will say. Or I will wear my new jumper or blouse that I so carefully chose whilst shopping. What is their response to my new article of clothing that I love so much "mum, that is so old fashioned. Why don't you try something from Top Shop". Well, I do look in Top Shop you know. Honestly I do. But their clothes are too young for me, I feel I would look like mutton dressed as lamb.

Then I get ready for bed and take off my make up. Oh my goodness.....there is another wrinkle. I am sure that one was not there this morning and my frown line is deeper now that ever. Botox crosses my mind briefly. I spot a mark on my hand and take a closer look, that is not a freckle; it is an age spot. I brush my hair and a glint catches my eye. What was it, I look closer, then go to the bathroom where the light is better, I look even close and what do I find; a silver hair (not grey, SILVER). I pull on my nightie and something else catches my eye, Oh no! Cellulite, not just a little. Where did that come from? Liposuction is now in my thoughts. Then I begin to feel my age.

When I have suffered enough, I go downstairs to make a cup of tea, or better still, pour a glass of wine (by this point I need it). I settle down with my husband to watch TV. We snuggle up close as we always do. Then a program will come on. The woman in the show looks very plastic, a bit like a Barbie Doll. Her lips look as though they have been blown up and are now out of proportion. The heavy make up making her look fake and orange. Her boobs poking out a little too pertly to be there of their own accord. My husband pulls me a little closer and says "I love you, you are natural and beautiful". Do you know what, Who needs plastic surgery, Botox or anything like that. I am me, I like me, and what is more important than anything in this world.......My husband loves me as I am.

In the eye of the beholder

I was enjoying a nature program on television the other evening; it was a beautifully photographed documentary.  Then I got to thinking about the birds I regularly sit and watch as they feed and flutter in the garden, merrily tweeting away and generally enjoying their life.  How I love to see the colours on the different variety of birds.  The delightful red breast of the Robin, the wonderful colours of the Blue Tit, the many Finches that we have fluttering in the Laburnum tree.  Even the Wood Pigeons and Collard Doves are truly beautiful to look at.


In the spring and summer, I love to walk and take in the beauty of the flowers and trees. The bright yellow of the Daffodils, the amazing display of Tulips, Geraniums, Busy Lizzies, Rhododendrons and Azaleas. The pink blossom of the Cherry and Apple trees, which grow into the most wonderful stunning fruits. All of these exciting colours.  Then of course there are the beautiful insects that frequent these flowers, making them come alive with activity. How stunning are the Bees that move from flower to flower, pollinating and helping our world to thrive.  The delightfully attractive Butterflies that gracefully glide from bloom to bloom. The many varieties of Beetles that flourish and work their way around the garden enjoying the plants and flowers.
Nature is such an amazing thing and very inspiring.  It made me stop and think about how lucky I am to have my sight.  It is something to treasure and look after. 

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