Back to School

It’s amazing – after all this time – I’m still learning. Learning about myself. Learning how to say “no.” Learning how to set priorities. Learning what’s important. You’d think I would have all that figured out by now. But no . . .

A friend recently reached out to me about a grant writing opportunity, so I met with him last week to learn more about it. I could tell, as we talked, that it would involve a great deal of research and looking for specific grants more than just writing. Which is fine – I enjoy doing that type of work, too. But when I add that to everything else I have going on (and this was to be a side gig, on top of my regular job, not replacing it) suddenly I felt overwhelmed by the idea.

After thinking about it over the weekend, I called my friend back on Monday and told him thank you, but no – I couldn’t take that on, too. It’s always hard for me to say no. I always want to say yes, let me help you. But there aren’t enough hours in the day and I have enough on my plate.

M had a good day at the house yesterday, working on the list of chores I left. I don’t know how long he actually worked on them, but everything was done and he did a GREAT job! I talked to our daughter-in-law this morning and she is going to encourage our older son to use M’s help with his lawn cutting business – especially now that leaf-raking season is starting. I know they don’t enjoy doing that, but with both of them doing it, maybe it will go faster.

One of my brothers suggested hosting a “M is retiring” party at his company to mark his 28 years there. Nothing fancy – just a sheet cake and punch – but it would be a way to say good-bye to everyone he worked with over the years. It might also be a way to set up some get-togethers with his friends, so they don’t lose touch.