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Everything I Knew is New Again

You know me as Buttercup, but I'm also known as the new kid on the block.

I've started my two volunteer activities. I've also joined a senior program and have gone to two exercise classes. I'm settling in at the Library and everything there is becoming more familiar, including the physical layout, my colleagues and the computer program I am using. I'm equally happy to see the results of my efforts appear on the Seminary website.

For someone who is pretty outgoing -- me -- getting to meet people in every new situation I find myself in is the toughest part of my retirement transition. I feel like the new kid on the block, and I am. I have chosen to try a number of different activities, but right now it's an uncomfortable time. I haven't met so many new people or been in so many new situations since I moved to New York in 1975. 

When I would start a job in the past I always told myself that it takes six months just to know where the bathroom is. In six months I will have figured out what works for me and what doesn't and the host of new faces will include lots of familiar ones. But now I am working through the uncomfortable on my way to comfortable and everything I knew is new again.  

I had a great day yesterday in Philadelphia visiting with friends. We didn't do much sight-seeing -- a return trip is in my mind for the fall -- but I did find one sight I'd like to share. From my research I believe this is Christ Church, where among many others, Betsy Ross and Benjamin Franklin were parishioners. The steeple caught my eye, and I was totally unaware of the magnificent history of this congregation, which dates from 1695.

    Historic Christ Church, Philadelphia, home of the Episcopal Church in America

Today my goal is to keep cool. The temperature is predicted to be over one hundred -- not usual for us -- and I'm taking it easy this afternoon. Keep cool and have a healthy, happy Monday. 

17 comments

Mary said...

Wow! You are busy and that's a good thing! That church is beautiful. I would love to see it in person someday. (I'm working on getting over a fear of flying.). Good luck with your adjusting. As an outgoing person, you should do well!

I'm mostly known as 'MA' said...

I give you credit for trying new things. I'm just enjoying the old and familiar here. And I'm staying in and keeping cool too.

Terra said...

Keep cool as you add all these new experiences and people to your comfort zone. That church is a beauty and significant in our history, I can see.

Melinda said...

Time will pass quickly and everything will be "old hat."

Stay indoors and enjoy some quiet time.

:o)

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you are super busy. Thanks for sharing this lovely photo. I wish you all the best in retirement. I remember my dad saying after retirement that he did not know how he ever found time to work!!!

Nellie said...

I just heard on the news this evening about the heat in NYC. Stay cool, Buttercup!

TARYTERRE said...

Change bothers me. I'm glad you are willing to embrace this new lifestyle head on. ENJOY!

Paula said...

I know how hard it is to break into a new crowd. I have found myself lonely during the day but shy of new experiences, as well. Good for you for pushing through!

Martha said...

I know exactly what you mean. I'm not one who likes much change. I like being in my comfort zone, but I just up and left my job that I've been in for 12 years! I'm starting over again too. Right now is the easy part because I get to be at home and with my family for the summer. Reporting to the new job when school starts again is going to be so weird. I'm already nervous about it. For both of us it's starting a whole new phase of life! Good luck, sounds like you are adjusting well so far :)

Lynda said...

I am so proud of you!!! You are getting mental and physical exercise. I know what you mean about the new job and learning so much. It is a difficult thing but as you know, it will quickly become second nature to you.

Anonymous said...

You are very brave to try new things. I hope you adjust quickly and enjoy your work : )

Marie Rayner said...

Oh boy, try to stay cool Carol! I hate it when it gets that hot. I think it is harder to make new friends as we get older. I have lots of invisible friends on the computer, but not very many at all in real life. Kind of sad really. I have lived here 13 years and can count my real friends on one finger.

Pondside said...

I like to read that part of your new start includes volunteering! It's close to my heart!

Theresa said...

Beautiful view! You are doing retirement right:) Staying busy is the best way to stay young and happy! Have a blessed day dear friend, HUGS!

Susie said...

Buttercup...I have missed you...I deleted my favorite blogger file and you know I am totally non-tech. So I finally got your blog back.
if you get out in the heat these next few days...better get some of that tastee freeze ice cream.
You are the baby on the block girl...probably way younger than most retirees. I see you have traveled some. That's good. Being with friends, that's a plus. You seem to like history....maybe you could do some history spots on your blog about businesses, churches, buildings, you name it , in NYC. I love your town and love learning about it. Whatever you do, enjoy everyday Carol...you have earned the right. xoxox, Susie



Lynn said...

inspiring post- I love retirement but took baby steps at first, I like your attitude of diving right in.

Patty Sumner said...

I have no doubt you will find your way.....So glad you are joining so many different groups.. You always have such wonderful visits and trips. The church is beautiful...Hang in there...Change will become your normal after a while...Blessings!