It is hard to believe that I have worn so many hats through the years. Some have been long term, others not so long. I am still a daughter and a sister. Both of these roles have lasted over sixty years.

I have many friends that have been around over forty years. I consider this remarkable, since I have moved around and changed so much. These are the people that really know me. I am grateful that they continue to be part of my life.

My role as mother is still an active one.  Rose is still home as she navigates through more epilepsy medication changes which means no driving. My son is living hours away and independent, but I choose to think he still needs me.

My wife role started almost forty years ago. We each had different expectations from a spouse. Our parents’ marriages were at opposite poles. Those rules don’t work anymore. I hope my children will forge their own ideas into their future relationships instead of following our lead. Every marriage is unique.

My official student roles lasted over seventeen years. I love to learn and would gladly return to be a student of botany, zoology, mycology or immunology. My memory is not what it used to be, but my experience and enthusiasm might get me through one more degree.

I have filled many teacher roles. I started in high schools, then community college, followed by seven years in middle school and lastly back to community college. I was happy to shed these roles, even though I really loved my students.

I ran my own tiny garden art business for over five years. I made pieces of outdoor art with concrete, Portland cement, peat moss, stones, tile and glass. I guess that started all the photography. My benches weighed over 300 pounds. It was a good run, but it was really hard on my body.

I will spare you the long list of bit parts I have played at churches, civic organizations and my children’s schools.

My latest roles as writer, photographer and gardener have suited me best of all. I enjoy the quiet solitude and self-pacing. I finally have a leading role in my life with a remote audience. I give only what I want to these parts. They are not demanding nor draining.

I hope I will find peace and satisfaction now that I have stopped wearing so many hats and filling so many shoes. No pay or praise expected.

I want my last role to be as just me.

FLOW