Snowstorms and Self Reflections

Last week we were hit by a series of snowstorms where I live. It was lovely to have some extra time off work. It brought on some self reflecting as well. I was quieter than usual, which of course was noticed and remarked on. But I just said I was sleepy. 

I wasn't sleepy, I was mulling over life with aging parents. I've lived with Mom and Dad since I moved back to the Island accidentally on purpose during the first bit of the Covid Pandemic. Living with Mom and Dad still this long into moving back home is a bit embarassing. It started off because I have two very lovely, bigger dogs. And while in Ontario, I didn't have to worry becasue landlords can't say no to pets - which is certainly not the case here. No one would rent to me with my dogs. So living at home was my only option. 

And honestly, if given the chance, I'm not sure I'd move out. Not because living at home is easy (it's not), or cheaper, but becasue I'm getting to know my parents in a different way and I'm really enjoying that. 

My relationship with my mom and dad has grown and changed into something much more akin to friendship than just the standard parent/child relationship. Getting to know my parents as an adult instead of a child has changed how I view them and has made me appreciate them so much more. 

Watching them the age has been an adventure of sorts. As they come to depend on me more and more for things that they used to be able to do without any help, I have realized that life really is cyclical. And I'm slowly discovering the joy that comes with being able to help my parents navigate the later portion of their lives. 

I'm not sure what the future holds for them. But I hope they remain in good health and good spirits. And I hope I'm here to see it all. 



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