Let me tell you, getting older isn’t for the faint of heart! My sisters and I used to hear that from our mama, and boy, do we get it now. We laugh at ourselves trying to do things we did at 20—but it’s more of a “laugh-so-you-don’t-cry” situation.
The Poodle Problem (or Blessing)
Take my poodle Sally, for instance. She’s all energy and joy, which is great… until she takes off like she’s shot out of a cannon, and I’m left with a large knot on my head, lying on the ground with a bruised ego. Sally’s not the problem—it’s these creaky joints and lack of energy that didn’t come with the owner’s manual on aging.
The Chihuahua Surprise
Then there’s Katy, our ancient 17-year-old Chihuahua who’s hanging on with sheer willpower and maybe a little help from the Lord. I thought a puppy might give her a reason to perk up, and it worked! Katy’s eating again, toddling around more, and making me rethink the power of puppy love—though my days of leisurely strolls are over. Now it’s diaper duty, dog meds, and, by the time I’m done, I’m just as ready for a nap as the dogs!
My husband had his doubts about getting a puppy, especially after losing our son last year. But there’s a connection to an old dog that made Sally a non-negotiable for me. Joy comes in surprising ways, even when it’s wrapped up in fur and comes with a few mishaps.
Misadventures in Aging
Now, I know what you’re thinking—what else could possibly go wrong? Well, let me paint you a picture: I’m half-dressed, trying to take Sally outside, when she spots a feral cat. Next thing I know, I’m chasing her across the yard like I’m still 30, only I’m not. Broken fingers, bruised pride, and a full day ahead. The Apple Watch even asked if I needed emergency services during one of these episodes—talk about a low point!
And don’t get me started on the stairs. My bright idea to upsize our house after retirement has left me juggling dogs and laptops on steep steps, leading to a few head-through-the-wall moments. My husband swears he can fix the hole I made. I think I just need to be more careful—or at least pack bubble wrap around myself!
But hey, I’m not giving up yet. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to make this aging thing go a little smoother. Here are a few tips for how to age gracefully (or at least, not fall apart entirely):
Ways to Age Gracefully (and with a Little Humor)
- Practice Gratitude
Every day, thank the good Lord you woke up on this side of the dirt. A little gratitude goes a long way in making your knees hurt less (well, almost).
“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever.”
Psalm 107:1 KJV
- Embrace Simple Pleasures
Whether it’s sitting on your porch with a cup of coffee or watching your dog chase their tail, life’s little joys are worth celebrating. Even the squirrels are a sign of God’s handiwork.
“For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”
Romans 1:20 KJV
- Cultivate Relationships
Nothing keeps you young like a good laugh with friends or family. Proverbs 27:17 says we sharpen each other like iron, though some days I feel more like rusty old tin!
“Iron sharpeneth iron; So a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
Proverbs 27:17 KJV
- Share Laughter
If you can’t laugh at yourself, trust me, everyone else will. Proverbs 17:22 wasn’t lying—laughter really is the best medicine, though I’ll still take my Advil.
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: But a broken spirit drieth the bones.”
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
So, if you’re out there battling the daily ups and downs of aging, just know—you’re not alone. It takes resilience, laughter, and a bit of bubble wrap, but we’ll get through it together. Now, where’s that coffee?
