As I look back on this past week and think about what has brought me the most joy, I keep coming back to one thing.
People.
My number one person is my husband, Kent.
Our long history together has created a bond that is the most important relationship in my life. Over the past few months, we have spent more time together than at any other point in our 45 years of marriage.
That has been a gift.
It has given us space to grow, to adjust, and to deepen our connection in this new chapter.
My life is richer because of Kent.
Since moving to Ajijic, we’ve started getting to know neighbors and local people.
We now recognize faces. We know names. Our greetings have moved from introductions to small conversations.
That matters to me.
It helps me feel like I belong here.
This past week, we’ve had opportunities to begin forming new friendships.
A neighbor has invited us over to meet others in the area, and we are looking forward to that.
As we get more established here, we would love to open our home as well—to create something similar to the Saturday morning coffee group we enjoyed with friends in Shreveport.
We miss those weekly check-ins.
We were also invited to lunch by a couple Kent recently connected with through his Sunday pool group.
We sat in their home, shared stories, and before we left, we were invited to join their regular Friday night dinner group.
It felt easy.
Natural.
Like the beginning of something.
I was grateful for the invitation—and for the possibility of new friendships.
Even from a distance, family continues to be a big part of our lives.
We called our oldest grandchild to sing “Happy Birthday” for their Sweet 16 and I felt so grateful for that time together on the phone. It’s amazing to watch the metamorphosis of each of our nine grandkids.
We’ve also talked with our youngest daughter while she traveled for work, and connected with our son and his family as well.
Staying connected to the daily lives of our children is important to me. Even though we’ve often lived far apart, I love knowing what is happening in their worlds.
I’ve also been in touch with my cousins, Kent and Lisa. In many ways, they are the closest thing I have to siblings. We grew up sharing time together—and even share June birthdays.
It’s a special bond, and I treasure it.
I’ve heard from friends back in Louisiana as well.
Their messages remind me that distance doesn’t erase connection.
If anything, it deepens my appreciation for those relationships.
Over time, I’ve come to realize how important friendships are. Earlier in life, I didn’t always make space for them.
Now, I do.
I consider my friends part of my family.
There are so many stories to be discovered in getting to know others.
I am learning to appreciate the diversity of people—their experiences, their perspectives, their lives.
And I am reminded again and again that most people are good.
Most people want the same things:
Connection.
Kindness.
To be seen and valued.
I love people.
And I hope, in this new chapter of life, I can continue to grow into a better version of myself as I open my heart to the beauty and complexity of others.
— Judi
Comments
3 responses
Thanks for the kind words sweetie!
Nice perspective❤️
I agree that connections are so important. I am glad that we try to touch bases at least once a month. Even as someone who loves to putter around on my own, I am so grateful for the connections I have and the people in my life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Judy!