It is so important to find the joy within as we age. I’ll be 73 this fall and have spent the past few weeks on my back. I’ve had spinal issues since I turned 40. New to Maine, I got here just before the pandemic so I haven’t made many friends yet. The spinal issues have changed all my hobbies, hopefully for just a few weeks, til the next episode happens (said with some humor). Fully vaxed, I still mask up and will for quite some time. I’m beyond grateful to get out and about and hope to get back to that when my spinal pain resides. Until then, I am enjoying the moment as best as possible. How do y’all handle this?
ElderChicks 
Thank you for sharing this. I wear a mask indoors all the time–Chicago is a big city and who knows? Outdoors we seem to be OK though. 67% of Chicagoans are vaccinated which is really good. As for mobility, since the pandemic and my reduced activity along with not getting to the gym after nearly 50 years of working out (!) I developed arthritis in my right knee which has been problematic for moving and climbing stairs which I have been doing every day for 14 years. I do not own a car so it is essential I do my rehab exercises, maybe join the Y for swimming options and keep moving, but some days are better than others. I am sorry that your mobility is less than desires, but you maintain a positive attitude which is really wonderful. Keep it up!
So sorry to hear that you have been laid up. Health issues are no fun so It is good you are out and about again. Have heard Maine is a top notch state so I hope you enjoy it there and no doubt will make friends when you are able.
So glad you took the time to post. I always love to read them! And always want to know more. Where did you move from? What brought you to Maine? I love the details.
YOU seem to have a spunky attitude at a time when your life is complicated,
and not fully under your control. I guess the expression ‘ go with the flow’
describes that; what choice do we have? I used to have those spinal
issues when I was younger (I’m 87 now!), and I was pleasantly surprised
to learn that the compressed spinal disks settled out in a way that seldom
causes pain unless I twist inadvertently. So, I try not to do that.
Learning new hobbies, and reaching out to get to know people casually
one way or the other sound like constructive approaches. Covid has
taught a lot of us seniors to think outside the box, when activities that
we love and are used to are denied to us.
All the best to you, in your new home!
As you see, Jane, your words stimulate others to reflect on similar experiences. What shines through most importantly for me is the “gratitude attitude” that enables you to adjust to major changes, particularly when you periodically deal with back pain. I have had back problems as well, and I found that physical therapy – and following up with exercises at home – made a huge difference for me. As for handling downtime, I’m finding lots of distraction and sometimes real enjoyment in watching polite old English murder mysteries right on my computer, resting my brain with sudoku, Googling my way through the hours, and revisiting needlepoint. Thinking about a weaving class. I loved visits to Maine and was always impressed by both the natural beauty and the evidence of beautiful work by local craftspeople all over the state. I’ll bet there are classes in your area – a great way to learn and socialize!
Let us know how you’re doing.