Asked on Aug 14, 2017

So many wonderful ideas and projects!!!

Kay
by Kay
Could someone please tell me where to find the extra time. Have never thought of myself as a time-waster, but I just can't seem to get started on all the things I'd like to do. Building bookcases is no. 1 to organize 4,500 hardcover books. Yes, the husband will do the building while organizing them is my task. In our mid 70's we are still both working, and the energy level isn't what it used to be. List includes: bookcases, painting six rooms, wood flooring in three rooms, landscaping 1/2 acre yard with desert plantings, and whatever new ideas come along. We've been without TV/Cable for almost 30 years and usually choose reading for our leisure time. Never have thought there wouldn't be time to do every thing . Money is a serious issue thus the "still working" thing. Wouldn't mind sitting on the patio and watching someone else do the hard work but don't think that will be an option. We're in a small rural community and I know there are younger people willing to do work for cash, but in this day and age I'm a bit nervous about having them too close. One young fellow who did yard work for us two months ago in now doing time. The neighbor two doors down volunteered to watch the house for us while we were away for a short time and now she's hiding from a warrant arrest for drug trafficking. Where do you find affordable help; and who do you trust? Thanks for your patience in reading my rant; sure there are others out there who face similar difficulties?

  3 answers
  • Tonya Tonya on Aug 14, 2017

    i completely understand. For me the best thing to go is to start one project. Look around for deals on supplies. you have had a rough time with people in your community It's not always easy but maybe meeting new people. I know I would gladly weed the neighbors garden, if they only asked. To me it's just relaxing. My neighbor and I don't work and we have agreed to "trade" tasks. For example I will babysit for her and she will cook me dinner. It works for us.

    • Kay Kay on Aug 14, 2017

      We are "new" to the neighborhood but have vacationed here for 15 years so there's lots of friends but they are pretty much in the same boat. Either they're widowed, still working, or just too old! Isn't retirement wonderful? We have a gorgeous home, a million dollar view, sunshine almost every day. Best to be grateful and do what we can?

  • Barbara Baldwin Barbara Baldwin on Aug 14, 2017

    I have the time. Lots and lots of it (retirement sucks). I don't have an artistic molecule in my body...

    • Kay Kay on Aug 14, 2017

      Moral support is always appreciated. Come over for an iced coffee and we can discuss it. I have the talent and imagination but not the time. The craft and home improvement magazines have made a fortune on me!

  • Cat Shaw Cat Shaw on Aug 14, 2017

    Excellent advice Tonya! I would suggest that you take your time, one project at a time and work together on them. It's wonderful that your husband can build your bookshelves however, it's super fun to work on things together. You might learn a bit from watching him. Plus the time you two spend together is priceless since both of you are still working. Perhaps you could speak with the school if it's close to you, and see if they know anyone who could help out. Trust is a major issue, especially at an older age, some people think they can, and do, take advantage. There's always some good people though that are willing to help and reaching out is all it takes. Aside from the school, maybe you can reach out to your church or community center. Good luck! If you were near me, I'd come over in heartbeat 😊