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Christine Wolf's avatar

You’ve got this. You’ve SO GOT THIS. And, I’ll be taking notes! I’m engaged (at 55) to a 59 year old man, and we’ll be combining our households in the (hopefully) near future. I really don’t know how to navigate the process, and I’m scared to death. I need guidance and inspiration and a steady voice to follow as I figure it out. So, thank you. You’re DOING IT! Sure, it won’t be easy and it’ll probably involve some stumbling, but I can’t wait to step onto that path.

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Jan Peppler's avatar

Oh Christine, yes! I understand ALL of what you're feeling! For about 2 weeks I found myself daily saying "what the fuck am I doing?" and then would realize I'm doing exactly what I'm supposed to be doing - just some part of me hadn't caught up. I'm not saying that anymore, so that's good. At the same time, the countdown has begun! In just 4 weeks, we're in the UHaul! I'm 57 and Tom is 62 so basically the same scenario as you. I applaud you for taking the leap. For moving through the fear and embracing the the gift, the future, the love! YOU are doing i!! Abbracci!!

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Patricia McDonald's avatar

💕Jan, love this writing of yours and the deep sharing that is evident throughout these personal thoughts.

Your movement of profound insight and awareness serve as a wake-up call for all to explore within our own soul for purpose and meaning in and of life.

Canada was good to bring us together in friendship in 2018.

Thank you for all that you add to the lives of others. Grateful for you in mine!

Pat McDonald💕

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Jan Peppler's avatar

oh Pat, thank you. You words are so kind and you are so dear. What a gift to have found each other at the Parliament! Grateful for you too!

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Janet Newnes's avatar

The only constant in life is change no matter how tightly we hold on to what we know. It’s kind of like a roller coaster, you might be on the part where you are screaming and covering your eyes but at the same time saying, “Let’s do it again!” Love your journey and I find you so inspiring! Thank you! 🙏

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Jan Peppler's avatar

Thank you, Janet! And you’re right- I think about that often: the only thing constant is change. Remembering this helps during moments of discomfort. This too shall pass. And it makes us treasure the good times even more.

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Kate McDermott's avatar

That first step in to a new chapter, no matter how many times we take it, is the biggest. You can and are doing it, my friend. Keep going!

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Jan Peppler's avatar

True, Kate, very true. The first step is always the most foreboding, the hardest to take. And then, before you know it, you’re off and running!

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Liz's avatar

Back to Idaho--no, I didn’t see that coming! Very cool! Renovating a house in Hailey sounds easier than renovating a house in Italy? But doing both at the same time is super impressive!

We’re moving back out West for who knows how long, specifically I’m driving out to SLC in a couple weeks to volunteer on Rocky Anderson’s mayoral campaign. Son Bobby lives there so I’ve got a place rented for 2 months, then maybe rent a longer term place for a little while?

So many changes Jan-- seems like you, me and so many people I know are in extended transition!

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Jan Peppler's avatar

Oh my goodness! That’s big news. I love hearing this. Tom is wrapping up a 30 year career with the county and these are the kind of stories he needs for inspiration. There are so many ways to be involved and be of service.

And yes, you know well that I NEVER imagined moving back!! And maybe it is that kind of insistence that should make me laugh

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Martha Doran's avatar

Love Carolynn Myss...quite a character! Your blog has so many elements in your adventures of this season of Loughnassa...from Celtic spirituality, or Lammas from Wicca traditions . As you may know...This is thought to be the mid point time between the Summer Solstice and the Fall Equinox when the First Sacrificial Harvest is made...making space, thinning, even uprooting what needs to be released so that the Full Fall Harvest will be bountiful. It's so clear to me that you are getting ready for your Bountiful Harvest....and what to let go of or thin or uproot calls for such discernment...knowing nothing is ever wasted...that is your wrestlings and your knowing! Love you!

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Jan Peppler's avatar

ah, I love that you call on Lammas as focal to this experience! Thank you. Yes, this time has been the celebration of all that has ripen and brought forth fruit. And now begins the clearing of the field and preparation for year's end: the time to go within, retreat to our caves and wrap ourselves in solitude, after one last planting. I may use this as the basis of another post - thank you! Love you too!

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