Tag Archives: Time

Spring Forward, Fall Behind

Posted on by
1

Some might argue that this blog is unnecessary as I am now retired.  I would take the stance that it is being posted as I want my voice to be heard, no matter what time it is.  When the clocks were moved forward one hour so we could “enjoy” day light savings time my life takes a serious turn toward lethargy.  I have yet to be convinced that there is any enjoyment to be found in this action.

First, I must offer a disclaimer that no research took place prior to this blog being written.  Google was not employed because, quite truthfully, I had neither the energy nor inclination.  I have understood that this change initially benefitted the farmers.  I see farm equipment behind my home operating with headlights after dark. I trust I was misinformed on this matter. The day continues to be 24 hours long. During the week someone shared that it was the grill industry that pushed for day light savings time. If this is true they were effective in their lobby efforts convincing others of the economic importance of grilling dinner late into the evening.  Someone should tell Thomas Edison that his invention of the light bulb was all for naught.

I will admit that I have known for some time that I am more of a sunset type of person as opposed to  sunrise.  When pictures of the glorious dawn are posted on Facebook I look and acknowledge mentally that I have not witnessed those colors across the horizon.  I consider myself fortunate to see the time on the face of the clock through my swollen eyes.  I am hard pressed to find anything magnificent or intriguing in the upcoming day when robbed of an hour’s sleep.  I do appreciate the vibrant hues displayed by a setting sun.  It has not been lost on me that I must now wait an additional hour to witness a beautiful sunset.

It has been documented that the week following the move to day light savings time is fraught with heart attacks and car accidents.  Fortunate not to experience this first hand I can empathize with those who have. It would be their collective voice that would make a difference in our plight. The remainder of us will quietly go out into the light and patiently wait for the signal that we are allowed to turn back the hands of the clock.  We will revel in the time we are given the nod to fall back, whether that movement is on a clock or into bed.

Gifts

Posted on by
Reply

I am fortunate to have a group of friends who I meet with on a regular basis. We gather at least once a month for dinner. We have named our group of five, Sages. Collectively, with several years under our belts, we have learned life’s lessons and feel as if our moniker is justified. My brother kiddingly refers to our events as hen parties but I recognize the importance of our gatherings. In my mind, it feels like we have always been together as a group. I don’t think I am exaggerating when I say we consider each other family. We are there for each other yet our gatherings are also a gift we give ourselves.

It has become routine for one of our group to open their home over the holidays and we enjoy an evening that begins with a delicious pot luck dinner followed by conversation and laughter. Prior to this year we had exchanged both birthday and Christmas gifts. Honestly, we are at the point in our lives that we are not in need of much and no longer exchange material gifts. Tangible items are not as important as the support we freely give one another; it is the best gift of all. It might be a busy time of the year but spending the precious commodity of time with one another makes for an excellent present.

I’m not sure if it is our culture or human nature but it does seem part of our holiday tradition to try to make this time of celebration special. We plan, we purchase, we take the time to find ways to show our love and care for those who mean much to us. There comes a time that those celebrations shift. It could be the result of death, illness or a move out of the area. I took notice of those who were suffering from serious illness, knowing their celebrations would not be like those of the past. Even though preparations weren’t complete at my home, it didn’t seem to matter. I made plans to visit those whose health was challenged. Unfortunately, one individual made her transition prior to Christmas and I didn’t get to see her. Another lesson learned: in giving the gift of time, don’t allow yourself to wait to act upon it.

There have also been sources of happiness that creates the reason for a visit. A friend recently had her fourth baby. The afghan I crocheted was going to be my main offering but I felt I wanted to bring something for the other children. Maybe Dunkin Donuts wasn’t the healthiest choice but it was well received. Planning another trip, closer to Christmas, I again wanted to bring something down for the children. I had the sensation that my company was appreciated as much as my small tangible gift. Not expecting anything in return, I left with a heartwarming token. It appears I might have moved into the role of surrogate grandmother and if that is the case I am filled with joy.

I can recall my mother often saying that our house might not be perfectly clean but she felt she was doing what was more important. She spent time with my three brothers and me. Upon reflection, I was given the gift of a wonderful mother and role model. I will give her the praise for allowing me to realize that the most important gift one can give another is themselves.