Oh dear annep1 I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to upset anyone, it's just that the question, "Where do you all go to chill out?" was quite specific and made me think of all the places I used to go and things I used to do.
I'll redress the balance.
I genuinely do have a very happy life, a wonderful family and some very good friends.
Just today, for instance, after 2 weeks away from my elders' group through lack of transport, I went back and everyone said how much they'd missed me and welcome back and had I been sick? It was all genuine, no one needs to say more than 'Hello' but they did. So that was gratifying.
I'm a life-long swimmer and always have an all-season multi-pass to the pool.
It's not just the swimming I love but everything about being in the water: the sound of it, how it sparkles in the sun - it's a real treat. However, although 68 F sounds warm, I still emerge like a shivering Venus during winter.
It's true I can't go out unless I have someone with me but I'm happy with my own company and during the rainy season (now) am content enough to even be a bit reclusive.
I have my audio books, knitting and my computer which is an absolute godsend.
And I have 2 lovely homecare ladies who are more like friends. They come in and hug me and we have quite a bit of fun talking over what we've been doing and the antics of their families. They take me to do the marketing and so on - and sometimes we 'cheat' and just go for coffee.
And before my eyes got wonky, I made some very beautiful things, such as this carving and I've painted many portraits and had exhibitions and books published and was able to travel all round NZ - and much, much more.
I've had a very full life so far and though I'm no expert at any of those things, I've enjoyed it all.
So I have no reason to moan and there's no reason for you to be sad for me, bless your heart.
- I had 63 years of treasures and privilege and look back on it all, and my present life with a great deal of optimism and gratitude.