Why is it I get so hot? Sweat forming on my face and under my arms. The bed covers too oppressive to even touch my skin. And me getting up and adjusting the fan in my direction, hoping that in just a minute or so, I’ll feel the heat abate. At that point, the fan will be readjusted and covers pulled back up. Back to normal for a little while.

Normal these days. Interesting concept. Normal is different than it used to be. Not bad, but definitely different.

I am not inclined to keep my mouth shut as I used to. I find myself simply stating what I think without the hesitation I used to feel. That’s a good thing. Less anger building up inside to erupt abruptly and fiercely.

What else? I am not as interested in external appearances.  Clean and well-groomed, but no special attention given to all the extras.  Needless to say, this is good for the budget. Plus, of course, it reduces the angst of looking in the mirror and noting the newest wrinkle.

I don’t spend lots of time lamenting what I’ve done or not done these days. I am happy with this change. God knows I wasted much time in those lamentations.

I do spend much more time cooking. This is a joy for me so this is a good thing.

I have overcome the inferiority complex I once carried related to growing up as a small town girl. Living in a city has taken care of that. I have come to appreciate that my little town had some of the most sophisticated people I’ve ever met, some of whom were my relatives.

I am better at not tying my identity to what I’ve accomplished or not accomplished. This is nice since according to external standards, my accomplishments are not nearly what I had expected by this age in life.

I am more grateful than I used to be. More aware of how fortunate I am. This is good since it’s no fun having wonderful people and experiences with no appreciation of what a gift this is.

I am much more aware that every day with good health is no longer to be taken for granted. One day you’re fine; the next you’re not. Nice to enjoy the days when one’s body is not calling attention to itself.

Speaking of that, the hot flash is gone. Sweet relief. Gone until the next one comes.

What can I say? I guess there will be a time when even the hot flashes pass. Time marches on, whether I like it or not.

As the Impressions so aptly sang, “People get ready for the train is coming.”  I expect it is.  Hopefully, in about forty years, if I’m really, really lucky.