It is almost Fall. And I am also in the Fall or Autumn of my life.
How lucky can a girl get! To be literally in the season and figuratively in the season.
Today I’m not doing a fall project, although that wreath can be used as inspiration. Today I am getting together with a group of my blogging friends who are over Fifty and we are going to share all about being Fifty and Fab!
Let me take you on the journey that has led to the Autumn of my life.
The Early Years
The first years were good, very good. I have been blessed with four children and a wonderful man by my side. As my family grew, so did my happiness. I must admit it was difficult at times to adjust to this, strange for me, culture but for the most part it was a joy to live here. We tend to think of our childhood home is based on what our parents remember. I had this nostalgic picture in my head, a relic from the early 1960s. The reality was far different.
As the children grew, I entered menopause. It was the strangest time of my life. Feeling like I didn’t belong in this body. Feeling like my head was in an oven for most of the day. Of course, the famous Greek heat did not help things at all. And to top it all off, the economy took a turn for the worst in 2008 as in the rest of the world.
Spiraling Downward
In 2011, we made the most difficult decision of our lives and had the older boys move back to the States. This was very hard for us as we have always been a very close knit family.
I remember thinking that this was not possible. We had moved to Greece to avoid this exact situation. It was then that I hit rock bottom. A sense of despair, a sense of hopelessness came over me. I would watch the TV news and not be able to make any sense of the nonsense that was being thrown at us. Lies upon lies were being fed to us and yet my sons were six thousand miles away because of those lies.
Hitting Rock Bottom
And yet, there was no end in sight. We were heavily taxed to sustain the banks and not to pay off any loans. And I … I was waiting? What was I waiting for? My younger kids to grow and then what? Would my obligations be over? What would I do with myself? I needed to get a job but there were no jobs here. I felt as if I had been spiraling downward along with the economy.
The years passed and I bided my time waiting…
…waiting.
A Light at the End of the Tunnel
These simple acts gave me life, and hope. And most of all, a purpose which I felt had been lacking for a while
The Decision
Of course, at this point I had nothing left to lose. I turned off the TV once and for all – that instrument that had been feeding me lies and bringing me down – and opened my computer!
I started a blog and visited other blogs, met other bloggers and realized that there was a whole community of like-minded people out there. And after a few months, there was an explosion in my brain. It was as if the right side of my brain had thrown off the cobwebs and started to work properly.
The Hibernation is Over
I am living proof that life is not over after Fifty. In fact, it is better than it has been in a long time. Instead of letting the economic crisis beat me down, instead of giving up, instead of having a sense of defeat, I have taken my life into my hands and created.
Yes, I have created something out of nothing. A bit like giving birth. And believe me this is one of my babies. This blog is a labor of love, for me and for those who come here every week to see what I am up to. It has given me joy and connected me with a whole world out there that is positive and vibrant. No negativity and a defeatist attitude here … not any more!
We are always learning in life. Never let anyone tell you that you are too old to learn. In a year and a half I’ve learned more than I had learned in the past ten years. I’ve learned things that I didn’t know existed! And I have picked up a camera, which has been a revelation all by itself. And I am the better for it! I guess the old foggy brain still works. And let’s not mention that right hemisphere which had been rotting away for a long, long time.
I am in the Autumn of my years! And yes, I am Fifty plus and Fabulous! There is so much more to learn, so many projects to make, so many posts to write! The second half of my life has just begun!
So don’t be shy, go and visit my Fifty and Fab friends!
This blog is for entertainment purposes only; my DIY tutorials are not professional advice. Read my full disclaimer here.
I love it when I get your comments and I will reply to each and every one of them. Please do not add a hyperlink to your comment, otherwise we cannot publish it.
Your story is proof that hardship either breaks or makes people more resilient. It didn’t break you! It must be tough to have your kids live miles away, but knowing that they’re better off makes it somewhat bearable. I commend you for refocusing your energy . You made blogging world greater and we are blessed to know you! Hugs!
P.S. I couldn’t leave a comment earlier, so I hope this one goes through.
Thank you dear Jas. I know you have been to hell and back and you are also a survivor. It is definitely good to come out on the other side of the tunnel. We all make up a puzzle of a wonderful community.
Mary, I’m so thrilled you pulled yourself up and started your blog. You have so many great ideas to share with others. But it’s got to be hard to have your kids so far away. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and I pray that this crisis will eventually come to an end. It’s been going on for so long. Hang in there, my friend!
Carol, thank you for your sweet words. If only those politicians would listen. But sometimes I think if the crisis had not occured I would have been complacent and not done anything and so I would not be where I am today with this blog and with all of you wonderful ladies. Starting this blog has been a real eye opener and has broadened my horizons so much. I feel so blessed and am so grateful that I was nudged in this direction.
Mary, I can’t imagine what it would be like to have your beloved homeland falling apart. You were so brave in the decisions made. I can truly understand what you are saying about feeling more alive now. When we are younger we don’t know what hard things are to come. Nobody ever could have convinced me that menopause could mess up my brain the way it does some days. You have taken control to some extent and it’s a good thing. 🙂
Stacey that menopause it a real drain. After all these years I still get hot flashes, but now because I am so focused on the blog they don’t bother me as much as they used to. So there’s another reason why blogging is good for us.
You’re amazing, Mary! I’m so inspired to read about your journey… and so happy you took it, because it’s how we met! ;P
Sarah Eliza you make plans in life and sometimes you end up having to readjust because things don’t go according to plan. The important thing is that we have control of our attitude and not let the situation bring us down.
Mary, I read your story the other evening and I have been anxious to get over to you and comment. First, what an inspiration. You certainly have been through many obstacles, however you never gave up hope. I find that as I am at this season of my life and more determined than ever to push forward and never give up. I am so happy you joined this blog hop of ours. It’s been really nice to read the stories.
Debbie, I thank you for being the mastermind in all of this. Because of your idea we have all gotten to know each other in a more personal way and come to realize just how much we have in common. And we also see that we are indeed made of strong stuff. And sharing all of this makes us even stronger. I am looking forward to the next blog hop already!
Μαίρη σε καταλαβαίνω απόλυτα, άλλωστε και εμείς φύγαμε από την Ελλάδα το 2009 διότι τα πράγματα ήταν σίγουρο πως δε θα οδηγούσαν πουθενά με την πολιτική που ακολουθούν οι μεγάλοι της χώρας μας. Μακάρι να περάσουν όλα αυτά γρήγορα γιατί και οι δικές μας οικογένειες διαλύθηκαν και βρέθηκαν αλλού και αλλού.. Αν και πλέον δεν είμαι σίγουρη, τουλάχιστον για εμένα, πως θέλω να γυρίσω πλεον στην Ελλάδα. Όσο και να αγαπώ τη χώρα μου αυτό που συμβαίνει δε το αντέχω.
Ελεάνα και εγω αισθανομαι έτσι. Έχουν φύγει τα παιδιά και η νεολαία. Κι όσο κι αν θέλουν οι νέοι να δημιουργησουν κάτι, δεν τους αφηνουν να σηκώσουν κεφάλι. Κρίμα να κόβουν τα πόδια από τόσο κόσμο για τις βλακείες τους. Εγώ εχω ακόμα δυο κορίτσια εδώ. Για να δούμε πώς θα πάνε τα πράγματα, αλλά δεν είμαι αισιόδοξη. Ας είμαστε καλά όπου κι να είμαστε.
Thank you for your story. I can’t imagine how hard it was to send your boys so far from you. That would be so difficult for me I know. Bless You!
Thank you Trish for taking the time to comment. It is very difficult knowing they are so far away but at the same time I feel blessed knowing that they had somewhere to go. There are many other young people here who have no way out. And the governement will not encourage growth so they cannot even start a business and hope to succeed.
Mary, I am so glad you shared your story. I loved reading it.
I think those of us in the U.S. see other beautiful countries like Greece through rose colored glasses. It’s easy to believe you wouldn’t have a care in the world if I only lived somewhere other than where you are.
You opened my eyes as you opened your heart.
Lisa you are so right. Greece was once a true paradise. We had it all, but the mistake we made was in the gov’t borrowing money to sustain a bloated public sector that we did not need. We are a small country. We never encourged private entrepreneurship. Everyone wanted to be a civil servant with the gov’t blessing. That was our downfall. And the irony here is that we have been bancrupt before for the same exact reasons.
We are lucky that we have our sun and sea. That is what keeps us from falling into certain deperession.
Mary, what a touching post! Loved reading your journey and how your blog brought light back into your life. I have loved creating my blog as well! I agree, fifty is fab; and sixty is nifty. That’s where I am and loving life! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
hugs,
Jann
Jann thank you for your uplifting words. We are truly blessed to be able to do what we love at this time in our lives.
Mary,
Reading your story inspires me! You are a strong woman and I am impressed with how much you’ve done in such a short time.
We truly are not getting older, but getting better.
Take care!
gail
And gaining lots of confidence along the way. Thank you Gail for being a mentor to all of us.
When I saw the subject line of your post in my inbox, my jaw dropped. Just yesterday I was pondering how I am in the Autumn of my life, and that perhaps I should write a post about it. I actually started the draft last night but am finding it difficult!
Your struggles have only made you stronger. It is because of what you’ve been through that you are who you are…a vibrant woman full of warmth with so very much to offer your family, friends, and anyone who has the pleasure of meeting you.
I started my blog at 58 (so I guess that makes me 62). You’re so right Mary, it keeps us on our toes, doesn’t it? Soooooo much to learn!
xxx
Doreen, I am in this group for seasoned ladies who blog about home decor and diy. If you would like to join us we’d love to have you. Just say the word. We had planned this a few weeks ago but can you imagine the coincidence?
You know I love your blog and look up to you. And you by your example have given me much strength and encouragment. Thank you dear friend. .
Mary, I remember hearing the challenges your country was going through. It’s wonderful to read how you’ve overcome and the happiness finding a new beginning has done for you. There is a lot of friendship and healing in the blog world. So glad to be a part of it with you.
Yes Amy. It is exactly as you say. Friendship and healing. We are all blessed to be part of this special group.
Oh Mary, your words are strong and what a story you are living. My heart breaks for you living so far from your children. But you have allowed your inner strength and gifts to come out and will be a refuge for you. I think that is what we do. The gifts we are given are a joy for us and others. You are giving yourself what we all need, purpose, creativity and a love for what you are driven to do. Being another one in my fifties I find it liberating to be here because we know this is it. It’s time to do what we always wanted to do and time is of the essence. Thanks for sharing your story!
Jan thank you for your comment. You have said it all perfectly. We all need to have a purpose in life. I think I would have sunk into depression if I had to sit here with a feeling that my life was over. This blog has given me so much purpose that I am brimming with joy and creativity. And I’m sure all us bloggers know what I’m talking about. Thank you for your sweet sentiments.
Great job expressing yourself, Mary. We said so many of the same things, but in different ways. This is such a fabulous journey, and I’m thrilled (like you) to be on it.
The sense of community this blog hop has fostered is really incredible. All of a sudden, even though we range in what we do, we have come together with a common cause. Thank you Pam for your comment and I am already looking forward to another blog hop like this one.
Mary I am so happy that you have found your stride and let your blog lift you out of the slump. Life is indeed fabulous after fifty!
Yes it is Michele, and if you would have told me this a few years ago I would not have believed you. But now I am living proof that a change in attitude can change everything.
Hi Mary. Thank you for this wonderful post! I too am in my 50’s. I have realized that there is more to life than the daily 9 to 5 routine in the corporate world and am seeking more. I enjoy your blog and this post is especially inspiring! We need to remember that we are still fabulous! Thank you!!
Melanie, the confidence that comes with age is what makes us fabulous. We know what we want out of life and we go out there and claim it. For me it was especially poignant as I felt I had come out of a deep sleep. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment.
This is so much fun! I wish I would have had time but work got in the way.
I just turned fifty and will be earning my grandma wings in a month. Life is moving more quicly now than ever! lol
Love and peace to all of you fabulous bloggers… 50 is the new awesome!
Pam
Pam it is awesome. We know what we want and we go out there and claim it. Congratulations on becoming a grandma soon, and we will have to add you to the group.
Time to get the brain cells moving again! I love this! Congrat on embracing this Autumn…I’m right behind you!
Sue the brain cells are getting quite the workout and that is a great thing. I’ve never b een happier. It’s even better than the twenties because we are doing what we want and not just going thru the motions.
Enjoyed your honesty in your post, Mary. I look forward to reading more posts.
Thank you Mrs. A. There is no other way to tell a story like this. It is raw and it comes from the heart. It’s a shame that the news focuses only on the economics and the banks and not on the impact the crisis is having on the people.
Hi Mary,
What a woman! Thoroughly enjoyed reading about your adventures (challenges ?). So glad you never gave up and found your blogging heart!
Thank you Julie. I am also glad to have met so many like minded ladies who are strong and resiliant. Because to have a blog and be successful you need to have perseverance.
Beautiful post. TFS!
Thank you Amy. Thank you for stopping in.
Mary, thanks for sharing in such a vulnerable way. I could not imagine being so far away from my children. That you can find joy and purpose in your life of blogging and be at peace that they are so far away is such an amazing accomplishment. I am so happy for your joy!
Debbie, I am at peace, at least now I know that I have made the right decision. Time has shown us that things are only getting worse here and that there seems to be no end to this economic downward spiral. We all want our children to grow up and become self-sufficient adults. Here in Greece this is not possible. I certainly did not expect to get this happy side effect of the blogging but I am sure glad it happened.
Mary – loved this post and learning more about there. I think the more we are open to learning new things, taking chanced and exploring the possibilities, the better we are. And with this age comes a bit of the freedom to do this. Great post!
Thank you Cathy. I think you know this better than everyone when you took up cross fitting. Bravo to you for doing this. I can only look and admire.
Great post Mary! I am of the same ‘vintage’ as you but looking at my 50’s as a totally new experience. Life with young children. After trying for children since I was 36, it just didn’t happen. Four miscarriages later, I eventually had my daughter at 40 and my son at 42. I have no regrets whatsoever. I felt I had a wonderful, full life before children and now, at a time when most people are empty nesters, I’m only beginning that journey of being a Mum and I’m loving it. You know me, I love frugal living and that’s what my blog has been about for me too. Sharing my frugal ideas to help other people and show that you can have a rich life by making a few changes no matter what the economy is like. It’s happening all over the world including here in Australia but I like to think that what I do here at home is rubbing off on the children (which it is) so they too know how to manage financially when they get older. Thank you so much for sharing your journey at Thriving on Thursdays. It was wonderful to read.
Anne xx
Anne, you may have had your children at an older age but you are giving them much wisdom that younger moms don’t have. I also had my two youngest after 35. And with wisdom comes the ability to make choices that suit you and not the marketing department of a major store. I too love frugal and find great satisfaction in it. And am happy to be able to combine all these things in the blog. We have so much to share and give, we are far from done. Thank you for your heartfelt comment.
You go girl! Good for you for not letting the negativity rule your life. We’re never too old to learn something new; in fact, I think it’s easier at this age without all the distractions.
Thoroughly enjoyed this post. Keep doing what you’re doing!
Thank you so much Betsy for your encouragment. It has been a life changing experience and all it took was a change in perspective. It is great to be alive.
I can’t imagine what you and your family has gone through. I know that it has to be hard for you to have the boys so far away. Especially as close as you all are.
I am inspired by you, always. But even moreso after reading this. Greece is a gorgeous country and I envy you that, but the rest of it sounds very difficult.
It has to be hard to watch the country your family has roots in change so much.
That brain of yours is certainly firing on all cylinders now and I am so happy that you were able to pull yourself out of a dark place. I treasure you, my friend!
It has been hard Nikki, but every day we feel vindicated in our decision because, and I say this with sadness, we are not improving at all.
But there is always another side and that is what I am focusing on. I too am so grateful for having found you. What were the odds? And I think we make a pretty good team.
Wow Mary….So glad I read this post just now, was just about to shut down n head to bed. I was meant to read this. Like you ,,same name even.I’ve a very rough time for too long now one thing after another…cancer, fibromyalgia ,rheumatoid arthritis ,and very painful days, lost my work ,home all day ,four kids on my own, seperated..,bills piling p no money when we use to live ok and have things..I have been so down in despair wondering what I was even doing..I had just started a blog .something i had wanted to do for over a year but too afraid to do it due to only basic computer knowledge and technology I cant keep up with! I had started it didnt have money for a few things, others I got stuck didnt know what to do and its been frustrating along with so much else going on.and ended up in just in lingo for two weeks. Your post just shook me up.. it is time to brush off the cobwebs and get moving, Finish up he blog one step at a time call support for help .. and who knows one day at a time, what I can control I will figure out what I cant, I will let go and create instead! Thanks more than you know! Refreshed!
Mary I am so glad you reached out to me. I too started out with no computer skills. I used Weebly which is a very simple system of drag and drop, there is no codes involved. We learn as we go along. I am still learning so much every day. Don’t be afraid to take the plunge. I think the hardest step is this first one. But once you have begun you will see that it gets easier. For me it is like talking to my friends over coffee. Also reach out to the community they can be a great source of support and encouragement. You can even send me a message and I will be more than happy to help. Go for it Mary, it will open up a whole new world for you.
Mary,
Life is definitely a rollercoaster ride with its ups and downs. In my mid-30s I had to have a hysterectomy which threw me into menopause abruptly. The doctor had prescribed a hormone pill, but my body did not absorb the hormone and I developed severe headaches, along with depression. After changing my prescription several times, I had a physical with tests. That’s when the doctor discovered I had not absorbed one drop of the hormone. He gave me an injection of hormones while in his office and within 24 hours I began feeling better. It was that quick. That period was when I realized how much natural chemicals affected our bodies and lives. All those years I thought I was in control because of my mental attitude when in reality, chemicals determined how I felt. For years I took hormonal injections every month. When I hit 50 I was doing much better than that 1st year after surgery. Truly 50 and fab!
Judith
I am so glad to hear this Judith. It is so important that we take control of our bodies and our lives. I know that menopause was also very difficult for me. But it is slowly subsiding. Stay well and always be healthy!
Mary,
What a beautifully written ‘from the heart’ post. You are an inspiration and a joy to all you have touched and reached through your blog. It’s full of hope and honesty and real life. You are right where you were meant to be. Hope you continue to enjoy the journey every single day.
~Laurie
Laurie, thank you so much for that heartfelt comment. It is good to be alive, everysingle day! All it took was a change in attitude and just a little inspiration from all of you ladies who have been blogging and showing me that it can be done.
Such a heartfelt, honest and beautiful story Mary. Thank you so much for sharing something so personal openly. I can’t begin to imagine the struggles you endure, especially with your children being so far away. However, to find hope and joy in visiting with them and creating that into an awesome outlet that you have passion for is inspiring. Thank you again. P.S. I really like the site design changes, I may be a bit late in noticing, but very bright and pretty.
Mistie thank you so much. All this feedback I have been getting has left me speechless. I feel as if I am living the best years of my life now, doing what I love and meeting so many of you wonderful bloggers who share my enthusiasm for diy and crafting. We all have the potential to follow what we love, in my case I felt I had nothing to lose at this point and that is what prompted me to follow my dream. Thank you for the compliment about the site. It needed an makeover too!
Indeed 50 and fabulous as your wreath Mary! I got a lot of positive vibes throughout your post and it gives me strength!
Thank you Katerina, I know that you understand me better than most since you also live in this crazy country. It is really amazing to have found myself with so much zest and life when a few years ago I thought I was finished. Stay well and strong Katerina.
It is amazing how good creating and photographing can make us feel, isn’t it? I’m so glad that you’ve been joining our Monday Socials.
Creating something from nothing is the greatest feeling Eilis and when you see that other people like what you are doing the reward is doubled.
This was such a wonderful. inspiring, uplifting post and one I really needed to read. This week I turn 41 and have been feeling well…old. My body is changing (as I read this I am lying in bed with a bad back) and I just feel different and like I am not who I was before. Your post made me realize that this change might not be a bad thing after all. It might be just a step in the road I am meant to travel.
Melissa I have also been down that road but now I feel as if I have a new lease on life. Don’t worry with age comes wisdom and a confidence that you never knew was hidden inside. I know all this may sound like a cliche but it is all about the attitude we have. In my case I just needed to focus on doing what I love instead of all the negativity around me. There was a period in my fourties where I was a bit foggy and that had to do with the onset of menopause. But now I am much better. You will come out of this much stronger. Hang in there and just see it as a phase.
Mary, I read this last week but didn’t have a chance to comment. This is an honest, poignant post — and wonderful. You’ve become more real to me. We all are on journeys are littered with trials and doubt but we must persist with a glad heart. Thanks so much for this post.
Words of wisdom Ann Marie, life is not an apple pie and it is us who must choose how we handle it. Thank you for y our continued support. I honestly cannot believe the feedback I have gotten on this post. Maybe I should give up on the diy’s and become … I don’t even know what. haha.
Although it’s sad the economy forces drastic changes in our lives, you are proof that determination and self motivation is key. Regardless of age. It has brought out the best in you. Your creations are amazing and I’m so happy you share them, Mary. You’re truly a Fabulous 50 Inspiration!
Thank you so much my dear friend. I feel like I’m just getting started. Let’s hope the old body holds up.
I’m “almost” into my 50s, and feeling some of the same things. It is a bit unsettling as the kids launch, and we need to find our new feet. Living where the economy was tanking could only have made it all more difficult. I love hearing stories about how perseverance and tenacity, along with being open to a new path, resulted in something beautiful! (visiting from #BragAboutIt)
Thank you Seana. It is indeed a new phase for us but one that is liberating because we no longer worry about the conventional rules. We have earned our confidence thru all the trials we’ve been thru and so can move forward with purpose.
Mary, what a beautiful journey you’re on. I could barely read your post through tears. Your story is one of hope and encouragement. I love that you are a shining example to your daughters of how vibrant life can be and how full it can be lived, if you just go for it. You’re amazing Mary!!
Thank you sweet Keri. I have been so lucky to turn all this negativity into a positive. And I have been blessed to have met so many of you ladies who support me and are always here for me. God is great and he looks out for all of us. I hope that one day my girls will understand why I am doing and see it for the life lesson it is.
Dear Mary,
you’ve really touched my heart with your story and this lovely, life-affirming post. Now I know where all your love and energy comes from!
Even though I’ve stopped watching and listening to the news no chance one could avoid hearing of what went on in Greece. I’ve often wondered how people were getting on though – that was never mentioned – It’s all just about politics and economy and finances.
Don’t give up hope! That’s the message of your post and that’s got nothing to do with age!
All my love,
Marjan
Marjan it is all about the politicians and the banks’ needs not what the people are going thru. It’s about how the prime minister doesn’t wear a tie, all this nonsense instead of thinking about the country. They are very divided here. Each party fights with the other one and if they would only stop and work together things would improve dramatically. Thank you so much Marjan. I have found so much support in this community. I’m not going anywhere.
So nice to see other 50 plus bloggers giving a shout out to the joys of aging well. I’m new to your blog, but am now following you in several ways and look forward to getting to know you.
Thank you Sugar, I am always happy to have new followers. And especially ladies like myself who get what we are all going through. I will also pop over to your blog and follow you back.
Dear Mary, Thanks for sharing your journey and being a power of example to so many other women who are 50+. It took a lot of courage and determination to pick yourself up and start anew. Way to go! By the way, the pics that go along with this post are fabulous, just like you. Nancy A @ http://www.colors4health.com
Thank you Nancy for your encouraging words. I think we have one life to live and we can either wollow in misery or look at things from another perspective and make the best of our lives. I chose to be positive instead of letting a bunch of politicians do me in. Thank you.
Good morning Mary, what a great story! I love a story where the heroine faces struggles and becomes stronger as a result. You’re clearly that heroine. As an over 50 gal, I get that whole ‘new chapter’ thing. My blog has surely been a new challenge to me that is certainly keeping my brain young.
Happy to call you a friend and wishing for you a lovely day
Hugs!!!
Lynn
It’s all about attitude Lynn. We cannot let others dictate our lives and make these decisions for us. We may not be able to control the politicians but we can control our feelings and actions.
And then there is the benefit of the renewal of brain cells which feels so good. Thank you Lynn and hugs back.
Oh Mary, how heartbreaking it must be to have yours sons in the States. So far away. Where are they? But maybe one day they will do what you and your husband did and move back to Greece.
Beautiful story so glad you shared. It’s amazing when we look back at what we have been through, gotten through it and then wonder where all those years went to because they went by so fast.
Hope to hear from you soon, friend!
Baba
Baba my boys which have become men while they are away live in New York. I don’t see them coming back. They have a future where they are now. Here it is only good for a vacation. So let them come visit and enjoy the sunshine but real life is not here. Thank you Baba for your sweet words.
Mary, you are an inspiration. Your difficult journey gave you the strength to survive and flourish. I am delighted we have become friends because you are a determined and generous woman.
Thank you so much Ann Marie. I have been blessed to have met all of you in this community and I get strength from all of your examples as well.
Loved reading this post, Mary! You are one talented lady – not just with repurposing and DIYs, but with writing and expressing yourself, too. Blogging has saved so many of us and yours is a wonderful story!
Thank you Gail. When it is coming from the heart it just flows out. Yes, blogging is really a lifesaver and in more ways than just that we create our own things, but in also giving peace of mind to our souls.
Thank you for sharing a bit more of who you are. I have enjoyed getting to know you and this has helped fill in some of the blanks. Keep writing. You have a lot to say.
Kat I so delighted to see a comment from you. This is such a treat for me, since we usually meet up in other areas. Thank you so much for your encouraging comment. I will continue to grow and evolve and not let the years hinder me. I want to let you know that you are my inspiration when it comes to photography! I remember seeing your photos on FB and seeking you out wanting to know more about you and if you had a blog. Thank you dear friend.
Thanks for sharing your story and good luck to your! I also started my blog when I was in my 50s and it’s been a great learning experience and wonderful way to meet likeminded people. I enjoy reading your blog and wish you continued success!
Thank you so much Zenda. It is so important to be able to connect to like minded people who understand what you are about. Thank you for the support.
Thanks for sharing your story with us! I can only imagine how difficult it is to watch everything around you get worse and worse and feel helpless…
I’m so glad that your blog is such a positive in your life and that it has helped you deal with a difficult situation!
It is incredibly difficult Andrea. And unfortunately there is no end to the misery. It breaks my heart to have to see so many young people forced to leave their homeland because of the stupidity of politicians. I am so blessed that something clicked in my mind and I left all of the negativity behind. I am one lucky girl to have met all of you ladies and now live a life of positivity and creativity. Thank you for all of your support.
What an amazingly beautiful post Mary. I’ve got happy and sad tears running down my face, while I type this. Isn’t it strange how sometimes the lowest points in our lives create a platform for us to reach some of our highest points. You are an incredible woman and truly fabulous.
Michelle, thank you so much for your kind comment. I think that I am an everywoman. We all have the potential to reach down and find strength within. We control our lives and really all it takes sometimes is just looking at things from another point of view. Thank you so much for your support and friendship.
What a wonderful post! I am so glad we met thru blogging! -Marci @ Stone Cottage Adventures
I am too Marci. There are so many wonderful ladies out there who are going down the same road and it’s nice to know we are not alone. Especially when it comes to menopause. If only I had this group when it began, I’m sure I would have weathered it better. Thanks for your support and for all the great photos.
I”m so glad I found you and I can’t wait to read the other blogs here. You have an incredibly emotional story to tell Mary. I love how describe your age as being in the Autumn of your life, I too love Autumn, I had much difficulty with accepting that I would be 50 but once it happened I realised that age after all is just a number. I’ve had an incredibly difficult year since my 50th birthday though, but on my 51st birthday this year I will be getting married!! I will write a post to add to your blog hop, but I do have an old post about being 50 I could add too x
Yes Anne , it is just a number and it cannot keep the spirit down. I want to congratulate you on your upcoming marriage! That is really wonderful news. You’ll be making a new start. And that is what this post is able, finding new life and hope after 50!
Mary, I know how hard it was for you to send your boys to the states. It’s wonderful that a new life for them inspired a new life for you!
That is exactly what has happened Kim. And who knows maybe if they hadn’t left I would still be sitting here twirling my thumbs in worry over the sad state of the coutnry and doing nothing.
What a beautiful and inspiring story Mary!
Thank you Patricia. I’m glad that I was able to turn a horrible situation into a positive because there are so many people suffering here with no end in sight.
Isn’t this a great stage of life Mary?? I can hear everything you’re saying echoing through my own head. It’s the Autumn of life that is full of colour and casting off the stuff that isn’t important. And btw how did I not know this blog hop existed????? So excited to link up and read some other fabulous 50’s posts xx
It is an amazing stage Leanne. Too bad we didn’t have this confidence when we were younger. We could have ruled the world. We are casting off all the negative and holding on to what makes us happy and defines us.
What a beautiful post Mary! Sad that things had to spiral downwards before you could pick yourself up and see the positives. You are an inspiration to me, showing me maybe the fifties aren’t as bad as they feel to me. I need to just stop and look at what I have, and all that I have learned over the last few years, and be grateful and glad this old brain is capable of still learning. May take a while to absorb it, lol. But I learn something new every day.
Linda sometimes you need to go really low before you feel like you’ve had enough and its time to take matters into your own hands. I am grateful every single day for being able to change my perspective and move forward. And you are doing great. It is because of this community that I was able to pull myself together. Seeing other women doing this gave me confidence to try it too. I know you’ll be fine because we are in good company.
Good Afternoon Mary, Oh my word, it was so hard to read your words, my heart went out to you.
I did know about the crisis in Greece, but I did not know how badly it had effected everyday families.
I do understand how hard it is to allow your children the choice to move to another country to start a new life, as due to the economic situation in 2008 that is what my daughter had to do.
Your blog is always a joy to visit, and whilst I may not always be able to read every post, when I do, I love my visit.
When we reach the autumn of our lives, if we have the courage, it can be a wonderful time. I am 64 years, but I don’t hold onto the number, because that is all it is. Yes the face has changed as has the body, but in my heart I still feel 18 years of age.
With very best wishes to you.
Daphne
Daphne I was reading your comment and nodding the whole way thru. My kids joke that I am still 17. So there you go. I thnk we all have an ideal inner age that we carry with us for life and well I guess we’ll just have to be teens (but responsible teens) forever.
Thank you so much for your sweet words and your wishes. And I wish the best to your daughter and all the children who were forced to leave their homelands.
Thank you for that honesty. It was encouraging and helpful. Some of us can identify with you and need a little push to keep moving.
I am happy to hear that Krista. We just need to keep on putting one foot in front of the other one day at a time. And we get there, maybe a little slower than before but so much wiser.
It was wonderful to read you story. Touching. Did I understand correctly that you have Alzheimer ?!
My english :-)))
Mary, we will still rocking. I am also 50+. Let’s be proud of it !! Let’s hope more years !! Health. All the best to you and your family!
Maarit. I don’t have Alzheimers. I want to make sure I don’t get it. If we work with computers and are always learning it will help keep Alzheimers away because the brain is active.
Thank you so much for the sweet wishes, and you do not look 50 at all. 😉
Aww Mary, what can I say, I don’t know. I’m in tears and want to hug you and am happy to know you a bit more! I think I have to read this over and over, it’s so beautiful!
Katrin, hugs back. It is all good now. Thank you so much dear, dear friend. <3
Mary,
I have tears in my eyes as I write this. Your story is so inspiring ! Your countries political and economic struggles really hit close to home with all that is happening in the U.S. right now and your sacrifice by sending your sons here was selfless to say the least. You held nothing back in telling your touching story, being vulnerable to us emotionally showed great strength and courage. Even more it showed that you had trust in us, your followers. This means the world to me as I have a hard time letting people see my feelings and struggles. You have inspired me to keep doing what I am doing even when I think it is a useless struggle because you have succeeded under far more dire circumstances so how can i give up? The icing on the cake is that I have been afraid that, nearing 54 , I had nothing to offer my readers. You have shown me that I do, in fact, have something left to contribute to this world and it has value, like you. You are a treasure and I am so glad that our paths have crossed. Thank you for sharing your incredible story.
Jeannee
Jeannee you have touched my heart. We all have something to offer. Because we each have our own special perspective on a topic. As long as we are doing what we love, it will shine thru. There are so many of us ladies out there who care and want to know what you are thinking. And we are all the same age and have the same concerns. That’s what this blog hop is about… community and friendship. We may be getting older but we are also stronger and wiser to know that there is strength in numbers. Thank you for your honest and heartwarming comment.
Hi Mary,
What a great story. After reading so many hear-warming tales I wish I had shared mine but really had no idea what to do with this challenge. Oh well, I’ve enjoy hearing about your and the other fine ladies in the group. thanks for sharing it.
Thank you Patti. I know we will have a follow up to th is very successful hop so you will have the opportunity. And I’ll do a craft since I told my story now. Thanks for visiting.
What an inspirational post. Our 50 plus is certainly not like our parents 50 plus. I think we are entering into the best years of our life as you show. I remember following the news coming out of Greece when you were going through all of that and felt the helplessness you must have felt. But you recreated yourself and have built a beautiful blog. Remember many people didn’t come into their prime, Colonel Sanders of KFC fame comes to mind until they were over 50. You are just getting started!
You are so right Debra. These are such vibrant years and we have wisdom and knowledge that we lacked before… not to mention common sense. We are unstoppable now!
Such an inspirational post especially for young parents!
Melanie, before all of this I thought you hit fifty and then get old and grimpy and fade into oblivion. But to my surprise, the opposite has happened. You have much to look forward to.
Hi, Mary, what a really heartfelt post! I knew that Greece had suffered but to read it first hand is heartbreaking for you and your kids. I’m so glad that you have turned the corner to a more positive place. Life can certainly throw us curveballs, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel. I know this firsthand too! So glad to be in the 50 group with you! xo
Thank you Rhoda for your kind words. It is ladies like you and your story which gave me stength. I rememeber reading it and thinking how strong you are and you had succeeded in doing what you loved after having gone thru such a difficult time. My thanks to you and Janet for forming the group. It has become a haven for all of us.
Mary, it was fun getting to know another side of you! I can feel your pain through it all, but you have come out victorious on the other side. I think you made lemonade out of lemons!
Yes Florence I have to agree with you. And did you know we have a lemon farm? Now I’ve come to love those lemons which are giving me such a yummy drink. Thank you for your support, I am blessed to have a friend like you.
Mary- What a beautiful and honest post. That is the thing that I’ve found that I love most about our blogging community; we pride ourselves in just being gut-level honest. There is no way to connect with readers otherwise.
Your post laid it all out there- but also gave a call, really. A call to get up and make the changes in your life you are able to change. I love this advice. We can stay where we are, or we can get up and move. Even small changes make a difference.
Thanks for the reminder- from a fellow 50-something blogger.
Blessings! – Kelly
That is so true Kelly. We put our hearts and souls into our blogs because like I said they are our babies.
And yes, we do have the power to change our attitude from one of feeling defeated to being in control of our own lives. We cannot control what the politicians do but we certainly have control over what goes on in our brains and hearts. And that is where the magic happens.
Thank you for your visit and your encouraging comment.
What a beautiful post, Mary! From one mother to another, I am sending big hugs to you in Greece. I can only imagine the heartache sending your boys across the pond. I’m so glad the right hemisphere shook off those cobwebs because you have so much talent to share. I’m so happy to have met you here in blog land and to call you friend. ♥♥♥
Thank you dear friend Marie, hugs back. I too am glad the cobwebs are gone and now I get to drive my husband crazy with all those ideas. It certainly is much more fun than complaining about the state of the economy.
Awe sweet Mary. Thank you for your willingness to be so real and transparent. And you are fabulous! Hugs and blessings, Cindy
Thank you Cindy. Sometimes we need to be truthful and thank God for giving us the wisdom to pull ourselves together. And maybe I can even help others with my story.
Your post was heart wrenching and beautiful. The wreath made my eyes water.
Your story exhibits such strength Mary. Making something good out of nothing, finding your way and then telling your story to teach others.
Beautiful, I truly thank you for the read. Leanna
Leanna. no crying. It is a story of re-awakening and hope. Now if only we could find a way to corral all those politicians and stick em … well, I’m too polite to say where.
Thank you my friend, and be happy. I am grateful for every single day.
Your post is so beautiful. Here’s a prayer for a stupendous autumn of your life. God Bless, Carol
Thank you so much for that Carol. We are all so blessed to belong to this wonderful supportive community.
What a wonderful, inspirational post! I am with you, in age and the same season in life. I too LOVE Fall and it’s beauty does lift the spirits. It is all about living each day and getting the most out of what God has for us. No more looking to what may be. Our time is now!
Perfectly said AnnMarie. Our time is now and we need to grab each day and live it to the fullest, even if we get a few less hours of sleep. We ae all blessed to have come this far and acquired the wisdom to be able to proceed with our hearts full.
Your writing proves that no matter where we are born, or where we live, women everywhere seem to be sisters of the heart. Even though we are each unique, we are the same.
I am MUCH older than you, more miles on the odometer! So much in the U.S. is going downhill…I also do not watch much of the news anymore (just enough to let me know the world is still spinning!). My husband & I are enduring major illnesses, but still life goes on….I’m trying to make it the best for me at this stage, while I still have a brain (well, mostly!) & eyes to see & read. Thank you for the encouraging post.
Marilyn bless you for your kind words. I wish you all the best and I can see that your spirit is strong. If only we had the bodies to go along with our spirits which are stronger and dare I say, braver then they were when we were young.
What an amazing journey, its been the same with me with blogging, it has opened a whole new world of ladies that I can communicate with. I also can see why you moved back to Greece, inspite of the down turn the country is in, you have made it worked and more power to you.
Hugs
Maria
Maria, my attitude has changed for the better unfortunately I don’t see any change in the leaders of Europe or Greece. They are behaving like one of those old mules with blinders on. Just continuing down the beaten path while knowing that it will not improve their lot. Thank goodness I have all of you, hugs back.