Becoming

 This is my third life. No I have not been reincarnated for the third time. I just have had events in my life that drastically changed how I lived, where I lived and with who I lived. Some may think this is my fourth life, but I do not include my childhood and teen years as they are so influenced by family and school. It was those years that shaped the person I became and that I have carried with me through all three of my adult lives.

As I write this blog I will share much of my life story. I will share how experiences have shaped the person I am now. I am not sure why I am driven to write this, but I think it will be something for my children and grandchildren. But maybe, someone else will read this and be touched by my story or inspired.

I was born the youngest of four children. I was the unplanned surprise and the third girl. I was born on my Father's birthday and he always said though that I was his favorite gift. I loved that I was the youngest as my siblings had already broken in and in some cases broken down my parents. My brother was the eldest and was seven years older, then a sister that was five years older and the last was close to three years older. My brother was very disappointed that I was a girl so he was never really close to me when we were children. My eldest sister always looked out for me, but did not play with me. My other sister was mean to me and fought with me.  I took her place as the youngest and I guess she wasn't too happy about that. Much of my childhood... well my life, was defined by my Mother's poor health. She was always in and out of hospitals for one ailment or another and had a case of prescription drugs always close at hand. I have quite a few memories of being sent to stay with neighbors or Grandparents during my early years. 

We lived in small towns until I was eight. It was then that we moved to Austin, which at the time was a small city of less than 400,000. It was quite the change but what a great city to grow up in. Prior to Austin we lived in a small town in North Texas until I was six, and then we lived in New Jersey for two years. I loved it there. It was a picture postcard perfectly quaint village. It was the first time I had friends my age living next door or just around the corner. So many great memories. 

My childhood was mostly happy. My teen years were so much fun, but I was in a rush to grow up and my parents were anxious for me to do so as they were ready to be empty nesters. 

So why am I living my third life? 

Life # 1 - Married at 21, three kids (2 girls and a boy) by 25, divorced at 35. 

Life #2 - Moved to Ireland ( I thought for three months but turned into eight years) Married at 36, Son died tragically when I was 42. Moved back to Texas at 43. Adopted two pre-teens (brother/sister)when I was 50, Divorced at 60. 

Life #3 - Realized I love being single. Started pursuing my own goals. Found inner peace and a joy of life. Currently looking forward to retirement in 2026.  I am becoming me.

So this is where I start. 

                                            Birthday photo of my dad and myself.