I Want To Be A Cool Old Lady

I tend to think of myself as an 85-year old woman, sitting in my nursing home room, reflecting back on my life. It’s an occupational hazard, but one I’m happy about. I take the long view of things, and have embarked on adventures now because I don’t want to be regretful later. The hours I’ve logged talking to old folks, my teachers, have made a huge impact on me. Some people are inspirational, some are cautionary tales, but I learn something from everyone with whom I come into contact.

For me to be a cool old lady, there are certain things I’d like to have accomplished by the time I reach my 85th year, or at least to have tried my darnedest. I’d like to have maintained a good marriage and to raise my child to become a happy, decent, confident person. I hope to show up for the important people in my life without giving myself away. I’m going to try to keep myself in shape and looking good “for a woman my age,” whatever the age, and to feel comfortable with the age I’m at. I’ve traveled quite a bit, but traveling even more would make me cooler. I want to publish at least one book, a goal I’ve had since I learned to read. I’d like to spread the word about what I’ve learned working in nursing homes so when I move into one, I can live the difference I’ve made.