The Older Sister Says Goodbye

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The past year leading up to turning 60 has been an amazing journey of discovery and learning. I’ve learned that it is okay to think about myself and take care of myself. I’ve learned that in that process, you sometimes have to make some hard decisions. I’ve learned that if it feels right, it probably is.

I had to make one of those hard decisions last week and it feels right. I am stepping down from my position as a contributing writer for the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans. I could give you a dozen reasons why I’m leaving, but the best thing I can tell you is I just know that it is time to go.

Five years ago, I was brought into the writers group of Shrinking Jeans. Believe me when I tell you that it has been an amazing five years. Christy and Melissa put their faith in me. I had no writing experience beyond writing on my own blog. They made me the “Older Sister” and I loved that role. I’m going to miss it.

In 2009, I found the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans. I had no idea back then how much this site would become a part of me. I had never met such an awesome group of supportive and inspiring people. I’ve made friendships that I will treasure forever. I find it amazing that I can feel like that about people that I only know through here. We have never met in person and maybe we never will, but you are still important to me and will remain that way. I take that with me as I go.

These five years have seen me grow in so many ways. I’m stronger in body and mind. I’m braver. I stand up for myself and the things I believe in. I’m not afraid. I put myself out there and I try new things. I’m not worried about what people think. I believe in myself. I learned that the only thing holding me back was myself.

As far as the future, I think it’s going to be very bright. I have a wonderful family that I love with all my heart. They deserve my time. Our youngest daughter is getting married this summer, so we have lots of planning and doing to get done in the next six months. I have four grandkids who are the lights of my life. I plan to spend lots of time with them. I’ll still be at the preschool full time. I love it there. There will be girl trips and family trips. My husband and I are empty-nesters now and have lots of adventures ahead of us. You’ll find me painting, beading, walking the beach and all around town. I hope to spend some time on my own personal blog. I have neglected it so. I’ll be doing the things that I want to do and there are so many things it boggles my mind. The future is mine. I’m excited.

I am beyond grateful for my time here at Shrinking Jeans. A special piece of my heart will always be right here. To my fellow writers, I’ll miss you. You are the best. To Christy and Melissa, I can never thank you enough for everything you have done for me and been to me. I love you both so much. To our readers, always remember why you come here. There is no place else that will give you such unconditional love, support and inspiration. I’ll miss you.

Although I know that I have made the best decision for me in leaving, it’s still hard to go. Just know that I have loved my time as a writer here and I’ll be around. I’ll be reading the posts and checking the Facebook page, just like you. I guess that’s it.

Goodbye, my friends. Love you!!

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