Anyone who reads this journal is familiar with Niels, who lives in Norway much of the time and owns a peaceful farm in Denmark. Needless to say, he and a few of the overalls gals started International Overalls Day. Well, yesterday Niels wrote an article on his website about turning 63 in a couple of weeks. I had to smile. In fact, I laughed aloud. Although I was aware that Niels and I are close in age, I somehow had not realized how close. His birthday is in a couple of weeks. Mine is during the first week of February. And, just like my friend in overalls, I will be turning 63.
Of course, there are a few other similarities. Niels speaks so lovingly of his wife and family. Everyone should know that I dote on my husband. Niels is an opera fan, involved in directing and creating. Admittedly, I enjoy an opera but I have absolutely no musical talents whatsoever. I could not carry a tune in a pail if someone sealed the lid. But, I do love art — the performing arts as well as visual arts. If I were to have a leaning in the area of talent, it would have to be in the visual arts.
Anyway, I detected — in Niels’ article — that he is looking forward to a slight, if not major, life change as he turns 63. Me, too. In recent months I have mentioned making a move to Florida this year. For those who are regular readers, you may have detected that it is time for a life change. Now, I am wondering if this just happens when we approach 63.
Well, in this case, I have been trumped by Niels and I am thankful for that. Although he can be only a month ahead of me reaching this turn in the road, I am so thankful that I do not have to lead the pack. I can watch and read Niels’ updates.
When I was young, I used to think that anyone in his or her 60′s were over the hill. I suppose that notion came along when I got that “40 – Over the Hill” coffee mug when I hit the big 4-0. That was decades ago and while I worried about the hill I was topping at 40, somehow the hill — if it is a hill — in the sixties seems more like a gentle ski slope. I feel as if I have been gathering speed in preparation for this soaring jump out of the box and into life without reservation.
Backing up the New Year with a birthday is double the incentive to start living. I was so pleased to see that Niels is readying for a new adventure in life. I cannot wait to get started on my own adventure.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Maya, I’m please to be the first of some of us 49′ers, to start our new life, being defined as new by ourselves ! it somehow gives us an extra motivation for really doing something we have been dreaming of, as for me to direct a stage performance and to draw sketches beforehand (visual arts are certainly included !) and be backstage at the premiere and not any more need to be in front and that makes is also much easier to keep my overalls on, not being in the representational roles any more ! anyway ready for New Years eve in blue overalls and red bow tie ! love Niels
Niels,
You know you are first. Who else among us could be?
As far as new beginnings, I cannot remember a time when “starting over” and doing it my way has been so anticipated.
Happy New Year to you and your wife. Love, joy and peace to both.
Maya