reinventing ourselves – where will it lead?

by Sharon Santoni

On New Year’s Eve 2010, as midnight struck and heralded the start of the new decade, I lifted my glass and declared that that would be the year I would re-invent myself.

I had no master plan, no clear idea of the shape of things to come, simply a realisation that with four growing children who needed me around less and less, the time had come for me to find other forms of occupation, a new path to tread.

light at the end of the path

For nineteen years, I had been a totally hands-on, dedicated and 100% available mum.  I loved that role, and lived it to the full – no distance too far to drive a kid to a match; no hour too late to sit up and make curtains for a bedroom, or sew that pretty party dress; no detail too small for a birthday party and no meal too big to cook for my appreciative brood.   I headed parents’ associations, sports events, charity sales … busy was my middle name.

As the children went through their teen years they needed me less and less.  Of course they still counted on me to keep the family machine ticking over smoothly, but on a practical level I was becoming redundant.

I quickly understood that unless I found a new way to keep myself busy and creative that I would drive myself, my husband the my children around the bend!

Two months later, on the recommendation of a girlfriend, I started my blog.  I didn’t know if anyone would want to read me, I wasn’t sure what I would be able to write about, but once I hit the ‘publish’ button for the first time, I was hooked!

Everyone talks about the amazing world of blogging and the new friendships, and the excitement of being in contact with so many people in so many far off places … and all of that is true.  But I think there is another more simple truth behind the enjoyment that so many of us find here.

I think that for many women who get to their forties or fifties blogging gives us a way to re-invent ourselves.   We are still the mum, the wife, the sister that everyone knew, but blogging opens up a completely new path and a new manner in which we can express ourselves, it is empowering, it is liberating, it is creative and it is fun!

what is behind the door in the wall

To begin with you have to be brave to push open that door but expressing yourself on the internet allows you a freedom of movement, and an access to an audience that no other media could ever permit.   In the same way that going to the gym keeps our body supple, so being active in social media keeps our minds and our personalities in touch with the world, it is stimulating and enriching.

And it doesn’t matter where you live, providing you have access to the internet.  You can blog from a grand château, or from a small cottage, from an apartment or even from the local library.  If you have something to say, then there are ears to listen and eyes to read.

Some of us discover that we can write, some of us discover that we can take a nice photo, or that we have a talent for styling, a gift for sharing recipes or a sure eye for fashion.  All of these things have always been there inside us, but  in earlier stages of our lives they hadn’t always had a chance to be seen.

This weekend,  for no particular reason I just want to celebrate the pleasure we have in re-inventing ourselves.  It is a privilege given to our generation in way that is new.  And most of all I would love to hear your tale of re-invention.  Whether it is through blogging or through another activity … which road has it led you down?

Thank you for sharing, have a wonderful weekend.

a winding street

76 comments

Amy October 25, 2014 - 6:40 pm

I love this post! I am a mom of 4 young children and I love blogging as a way to connect with other people. I have really enjoyed reading your blog over the last year. I am so glad you decided to start blogging.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 7:12 pm

Hi Amy, I remember being a mum to four little ones – never a minute to myself! 🙂
… off to visit your blog

xx

Reply
Anneke Boks October 25, 2014 - 9:04 pm

Thank you for beeing So brave ,I really love to get your mails .Love to hear and learn About France .So Please soldier on ,showing your dogs the garden and country Side .And not to forget About the good tips ,on where to stay ,when in France .
Anneke

Reply
Anna Smith October 27, 2014 - 1:04 pm

Just love that blog. You’ve expressed exactly how I felt all those years ago…If only the husband, children and assorted relatives had been aware….
Anna

Reply
Susan October 26, 2014 - 3:27 am

This post speaks many truths! My blog has been built for months now and I have yet to bring the courage to post! I am going to now, Thank You.

Reply
Karen T. October 25, 2014 - 6:41 pm

Great post! I needed this today! Thank you!

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 7:13 pm

Thank you Karen, I think we all need a little boost now and again, I know I appreciate it when I get into a lull

xx

Reply
elizabeth October 25, 2014 - 6:54 pm

Such a kind post, I do love the illustrations, particularly the last one that makes me think of Bellême , Orne.
Sheers from Granville, Manche

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 7:14 pm

Ah bravo Elizabeth, nearly Belleme, but actually Mortagne, not so far away!

And the pictures are from my instagram page, my favourite is the first one of the morning path

xx

Reply
Kay October 25, 2014 - 7:10 pm

Sharon,
I, too, am glad you started blogging! I enjoy your blog immensely, but my dream is to be on one of your brocante tours. 🙂

I got to reinvent myself in my early 50s from a 20-year career as a national corporate employee to self-employed decorative painter. I’ve been in business for 11 years now and have never had more fun in a job! There are certainly trade-offs (money, for one), but it’s never too late to do what you love.

Thanks for your inspiring posts.

Kay
https://dancingbrushpainting.com

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 7:16 pm

‘Fun in a job” … now isn’t that what we all want?! And being creative every day for your work, what greater luxury could you have?

Maybe one day we’ll meet on a tour, thank you for your comment

xx

Reply
diana alexander October 25, 2014 - 7:13 pm

Sharon, I must tell you that your Blog, or rather the wonderful extension of you and your wonderful Life, are at the top of my list!

Your photo’s of France (my dream retirement location), your amazing sense of styling both your home, your garden and your photos are truly an inspiration.

I have 3 years to retirement from Nursing, and plan to live at my farm in North Georgia in the Southern USA. It is currently being used as an Equine rescue facility with 5 horses, two donkeys, a mule, 30 chickens, and a bunch of cats and dogs. It is my own private piece of Heaven.

My plan is to continue my hobby of metalsmithing, buy a couple of Alpaca’s and spin their wool, and continue to turn the property in the dream within my mind. Your blog is an inspiration that helps me foresee that dream.

Thank you for your daily inspiration. diana, the Good Ole South.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 7:18 pm

Well thank you Diana, I am flattered and humbled.

It sounds like you have quite a project going there, and retiring to a busy farm sounds like a good plan to me, you’ll certainly never have time to get bored 🙂

xx

Reply
Kerrie in France October 25, 2014 - 7:19 pm

My daily visit to your blog is a highlight, so I too am glad that you decided to try this creative outlet. My husband and I moved from Australia to France when we retired and now I indulge myself in my own blog for friends and family, my little internet shop where I sell french brocante, and now I’ve started taking watercolour painting classes with a group of lovely french women. All a total change from sitting in an office in Sydney.It is such a joy to have the freedom to try whatever takes my fancy. We should all have the opportunity to try another life.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:40 pm

That is a big re-invention Kerrie, round the other side of the planet! How brave you both are!
You are right, we should all have the opportunity to try

xx

Reply
Jennifer Box October 25, 2014 - 7:19 pm

Thank you so much for this I can reiterate this so much. Having just gone through b cancer, my children live away. I now make cakes not many, but enjoy them. Photos coming on. But just going for walks and with a view that you give the world seems bigger place

Thank you.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:41 pm

Bravo Jennifer, to have come through cancer with your fighting spirit and enjoying the little things in life

thank you for sharing

xx

Reply
Karena October 25, 2014 - 7:19 pm

Dear Sharon,
I suppose my way of reinventing myself was being able to start my blog to support the arts. Then having it lead to meeting some of the most extraordinary people ever from all over the world. I feel so very grateful and fortunate. It has been a blessing in so many ways.

xoxo,
Karena
The Arts by Karena

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:43 pm

And your blog is wonderful Karena, I love the way you so generously showcase other people’s talent

xx

Reply
Charlotte Whitten October 25, 2014 - 7:20 pm

Bravo. I like to think I have reinvented myself several times and still 3 years shy of 60. My 93 y/o dad calls them chapters in life. He’s had many. I feel my own new chapter beginning soon. 🙂 Have enjoyed reading your blog.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:46 pm

“chapters in life” , I think that is very nicely put Charlotte. It’s funny how you need to move a way through your life before you can recognise and embrace those chapters in all serenity

xx

Reply
Debby October 25, 2014 - 7:21 pm

Sharon

I too started my blog out of a kind of desperation to keep myself busy.

In 2011 I lost my mother whom I took care of until her last breath, I lost my best friend. In 2012 I lost my job due to layoff and also became a empty nester. As the oldest of five siblings, raising my two beautiful kids and my dear husband of 30 years I sort of felt lost.

I continue to struggle to find a job just working temporary and seasonal work. But I found joy when I started my blog. I promised myself only to publish beautiful things! No negativity but pretty and creative things. I only have my ipad to accomplish this but my blog makes me smile. My blog keeps me motivated especially on those rainy days when life seems to bring you down.

I love your blog Sharon and thank you so much for sharing your story.

Debby

Debbygoesshabby.blogspot.com

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:47 pm

Thank you Debby for sharing too. I am sorry that you have been through such difficult times, but I’m glad you’re finding new strength in your blog

xx

Reply
JeanFB October 25, 2014 - 7:36 pm

So happy you decided to “reinvent” yourself in this way, sharing all of the loveliness with us! Beautiful blog, beautiful story.

Reply
Leslie October 25, 2014 - 7:49 pm

Hi Sharon,

I’m in my mid fifties, have raised a family, and I ‘m on my second career. I took up blogging for the same reasons you did. Meeting like-minded women is so much fun and it’s amazing that everyone is somehow able to connect. Blogging has helped me stay connected too with the ever changing world of social media. It’s an entirely different world than it was when I was younger and going with the CHANGE is essential for so many reasons. I know so many women that just SPIN and can’t figure out what to do when mid life hits them. Baby steps and not being afraid of change ..

Enjoy your weekend!

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:49 pm

Exactly Leslie, don’t be afraid of change, and anyway nothing is irreversible!

We are in a fortunate position for sure

xx

Reply
Madonna/aka/Ms. Lemon October 25, 2014 - 8:20 pm

I don’t think of it as reinventing but rather as discovering myself. I have learned the reason I do what I do. It has been therapy and a wonderful experience. I try to keep it all positive since it is my meant to be uplifting. I don’t mind complaining about a cooking failure, but when I manage to cook or bake something outstanding I want to force feed my new friends. 🙂

Your photos look familiar, especially the first one. I think my gggrand must have felt at home when she finally landed at her new home.

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 25, 2014 - 9:53 pm

And look how many happy readers you have, they just keep coming back to see what wonderful recipe you are sharing!

Love your comment about your great great grandparents …. now they took re-invention to a whole new level!

xx

Reply
Penelope October 25, 2014 - 9:15 pm

I enjoy your beautiful blog as well! I couldn’t agree more with what you have said and how the first action is beginning and actually pushing the button! Life is meant to be enjoyed and lived to the fullest! Your gardens, your travels, your recipes, your tours, your cottage for rent, your lovely home, the fashion sense and so much more are all fascinating! You seem like you are an inspiration to many of us who love all that you share with us about France! My life was/is very similar as I have five children and would go to the ends of the earth for each one! Thank you for sharing your life with us! 🙂

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:35 am

Thank you Penelope, the pleasure is in the sharing!

xx

Reply
Sheila October 25, 2014 - 9:21 pm

Having been an avid reader of yours for quite some time now, I love it when my inbox has a new post from you! Also, being 61 years old with a 30 year old son who has his own life and family now, my life was growing stale. Reinvention was the name of the new game! I’ve found women like yourself to read and admire, a new job with a cookbook author and television personality and pushed myself out of my comfort zone to meet new friends in my little area of Connecticut, USA. I’m proud of your accomplishments, Sharon Santoni Smith. Keep up the great work!!

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:36 am

Well done Sheila, it sounds like you have re-invented yourself most successfully!

And thank you for being proud of me, you are very kind 🙂

xx

Reply
Erin October 25, 2014 - 9:22 pm

What a delight you bring to so many with your blog – merci! I headed in a different direction, not as “beautiful” as recording dream sights and experiences in France but rewarding none the less. When my children were mid-way through high school I started law school, graduating the same month my youngest graduated from high school. That summer involved taking the required bar exam, getting my daughter ready for college – then in September when both were safely ensconced in college I began what proved to be a 17 year career as a prosecutor in a nearby county. That was a wonderfully rewarding career but must say that on days when the police reports were too grim or the witnesses too sad I would head off to a local nursery to spend my lunch hour amongst the plants and flowers! Isn’t it amazing how therapeutic nature can be. I am retired now and love the time we have to enjoy the garden, family, friends, travel…. Reinvention is amazing!

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:38 am

Wow Erin!

I really admire you for this, I’m not sure that I would have been able to find the patience and the discipline to go back to study, how wonderful that you succeeded and gave yourself a new career

thank you for sharing your inspiring story

xx

Reply
Joan October 25, 2014 - 9:25 pm

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts today. Many of them echo my own ponderings about this topic of blogging and life and women and who we are. Who we were meant to be. A friend has been urging me to do this and perhaps I will at some point. In the meantime your introspection and lovely photos continue to inspire.
Blessings,

Joan
In the Mid West

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:39 am

Well Joan, it’s not because you start a blog that you become somebody different, it just gives you a new and fun way to express yourself, and it can take you to the most surprising places

xx

Reply
Jeannie October 25, 2014 - 9:26 pm

What an amazing blog… Read it tonight and thought that’s me. Both my boys are living abroad and enjoying their lives. I love my life in a small house with a beautiful garden.. Busy taking photos of my plants, flower arrangements and the animals. Need tomahawk my photos but not sure how to go about it. Enjoy everything around us is a bonus. Love walking the dog, playing tennis, cooking, gardening and all things connected with the country. I am very lucky but not sure I am confident to write a blog.
Jeannie x

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:41 am

I’m convinced that there are very many women in the same situation Jeannie. We are fortunate to be in a position where we can fulfil several roles in one lifetime, it’s just up to us to make the leap … and enjoy!

xx

Reply
Wendy Shippee October 25, 2014 - 9:27 pm

Thank you for posting this! I had never read your first post. It is very inspiring to me. Time to get started!!

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:41 am

you go girl!!

🙂

xx

Reply
stacey snacks October 25, 2014 - 9:53 pm

Listen lady, you need NO reinventing……but I know the feeling of being restless.

7 years ago I reinvented myself as a food blogger when my antiques business slowed down….this December I am turning the big 50…..hmmmmm, how shall I be reinvented?

The wheels are turning!
xo

Reply
Sharon Santoni October 26, 2014 - 9:42 am

And you’ll be one of the most gorgeous 50 year olds around, you have such style and your recipes are SO delicious … I’m so glad that through our blogs we got to be friends 🙂

xx

Reply
Katie October 25, 2014 - 10:14 pm

I actually had tears in my eyes as I reached the end of your post. My job is being eliminated in December. At first you feel terribly de-valued. At my age, I lamented – what will I do? After 34 years of “punching the clock” so to speak, I had little to show for my commitment, time away from my family and my devotion to the cause. Just a very generous severance and the money I had squished away for a rainy day.

As I drove away from the office that day, I called my dearest friend Brian. He has been my wing man for 25 years. I told him what had happened and then asked, “So what if I don’t go back – what if I don’t take another job? What if I strike out on my own and take a couple of years off?” I waited for him to laugh – to smack me through the phone – and instead, he quietly whispered in reply, “What if? What have you got to lose?” I wept – partly because I was scared and partly because it was like someone had just turned the lights on in my soul. For the first time in a very long time, I felt like anything was possible. My children are grown. I only have to take care of me. This life “plot twist” could not have happened at a better time.

When I met with a business mentor to run the idea by him and see what the professional consequences might be if I step off the train for a time, he shook his head, leaned in and said “You ******* wrote a book. That is all you will need to say. You are now in the “burn” period. Make every second count.”

So, as 2015 dawns, I will begin my “unexpected sabbatical”. I plan to finish my two novels and hopefully (fingers crossed) getting them accepted for publication, travel as much as possible, and donate my time in my community. I look forward rediscovering the fire and passion that once fueled my spirit. I have set goals to shed weight I have accumulated from decades at a desk, and through losses, heartbreak and fear. I want to walk more and stand more. I want to laugh more. Maybe, if the fates are truly kind, at the end I will have found love again too. One never knows what is around the bend – as the photograph in this post so eloquently suggests 🙂

Thank your for this post. It is an exciting time and I am ever so ready to begin my journey of reinvention and rediscovery.

Reply
Marian from UK July 7, 2015 - 3:51 pm

Hi Katie
I know this is a bit late, but I was just looking at Sharon’s earlier posts – I’ve been following her for a year or two and love her blog.
Reading your story, it sort of resonated. I too was made redundant some years ago after decades in an office job which I had to do to help support my family. I was terrified of how we would manage. But oh I should not have been! Yes it was tight financially, but I got a part time receptionist job to start with, totally different, and through that I discovered by serendipity, a new career as a Foot Health Practitioner. I studied and trained and in 2007 I qualified and since then ran my own business looking after everyone’s feet in my local area, driving to their homes. This year I decided the time had come to retire (at 64!) and begin another phase of my life. One of creativity, including a blog, inspired of course by Sharon! Have yet to push the button!
I think you did the right thing following redundancy and I really hope that things have gone well for you. To write a novel is a wonderful achievement.
I’m trying to decide on a name for my blog, not easy. I live with my husband in England in a village in a small cottage and hope I can write about country life here. Watch this space!
Hope you didn’t mind me waffling on but I could understand your ‘fear’ when change was thrust upon you. It turned out to be the best thing for me. I hope for you too. Good luck.

Reply
Lory Bernstein October 25, 2014 - 10:37 pm

Sharon, I love, love love this post!! I, too, reinvented myself with my blog, but in a somewhat different way. While I am a mom and wife, first and foremost, I worked as a sportswear designer for 25 years while bringing up my kids, so I’ve always had a creative outlet and I’ve always identified as a professional, as well as a mom. That said, retiring from the full time work world and having the freedom to work from home has been equally as life changing for me and I enjoy all the joys of blogging you mention. (I am new to this – only doing it for 4 months). One of the things that I most love about blogging is being in charge of my creative life. Although I designed many different lines for 25 years, I always worked for someone else and had to work within the aesthetic that was already pre-determined. I also had to cater to the sales of the product. With blogging, just being read and appreciated is the point. Success is determined by audience, not profitability, and that allows a personal creative freedom that even a lifelong designer has never felt before. It also has given me the freedom to focus more on home styling, an interest I’ve had for many many years. I have thought at various times throughout the years that I was having my own personal renaissance, but this latest one through blogging has easily been the oat significant one to date… 🙂 So glad you made the choice to blog. I enjoy reading your posts enormously!

Reply
Sally October 26, 2014 - 12:09 am

My dear Sharon

I feel heartfelt gratitute for finding you blog, your beautiful blog, and those of some of the other girls that I read. I have so many shared loves……….no PASSIONS !! with you that I feel I am amongst friends, so please forgive the familiarity.

When I first found you I could hardly believe there were others that shared my love for design creativity beauty in flowers, and of course France… and it is so interesting to read that it was a re-invention of yourself that became this magical and unique, special thing that you have created. Bravissima Sharon……you have done so well. I am so proud for you and I am sure your husband and family are
( normally I would stop here, as I am super shy to comment sometimes, but I continue…because I have gained so much by reading what the others have written)

as I say ‘Bravissima’, because when I met the love of my life. The Italian……..I had to reinvent myself, and presto 🙂 life, language, family, the joy of children, and of course location ( a very beautiful part of Italy ) …my life had all changed forever along with me.

Around the time I found your blog , we were going through some sadness and after reading you, you inspired me so much it was if someone had switched on the light.
I knew that I must continue to be creative and not lose my work…you showed me that there is such a huge value in staying true to your own self and things that you enjoy but finding a new way to express oneself is the reinvention.

I would love so much to start a blog of my own…..it will take a lot of bravery for me to let go of my shyness, but maybe, because in real life I am fairly gregarious.
As the cat said of us in Cheshire ‘ we are all mad here’
I do hope I can start a blog one day…… and without you I never would have.

whatever happens, you inspire me enormously Sharon, and I absolutely love what you do. Thank you… so very much

Sally xxx

Reply
Katherine October 26, 2014 - 12:33 am

I have no idea where the thought of blogging first came to me. But there I was trying to find a name for the blog {ended up with the one I have after discovering several others I wanted were already active}. Even now I sometimes think ‘did I have a plan?’ – ‘did I just start typing away about life?’ It gives me real joy to write and share with peopl.

Blogging has been about re-inventing for me – something I wasn’t trying to do, but obviously needed. I’m happy to see so many people discovering, sharing, exploring. Following your blog always makes me want to take a softer approach to things – and, you inspire me to get the art of photography better developed for my own blog.

Honestly Sharon, when I read your blog it is calming, a real joy. And then of course there are the adventures of two four legged friends who cannot help but steal our hearts.
Thanks for sharing your part of the world with us. You do this so well.

Reply
Caroline Longstaffe October 26, 2014 - 12:52 am

Hi Sharon
What a wonderful post. You expressed so well how so many of us have joined this world of communication and why! I so identify with how you feel and why you love to write and share. I really enjoy your posts,thank you for allowing me into your world and I hope you maybe have time to read about a little of mine, an English girl, living in San Francisco in love with Provence, funny old world!
Best
Caroline

Reply
Betsy October 26, 2014 - 1:14 am

What a wonderful post! I totally agree…blogging is enriching! I’m so glad I found your blog! Happy four years of posts!

Reply
Libby October 26, 2014 - 1:32 am

For me it hasn’t been so much of a re-invention as an extension of who I am and what I do. It’s the “add on” that makes my life SO much richer! Oh, the people I’ve met. I went into business with one woman I met by blogging. I just spent several days in England with another blogging friend: sight unseen, she invited me to stay with her family up in Suffolk for three days! We hit it off immediately. All the bloggers I’ve met up with have instantly become friends! I wonder what we all did before this most wonderful invention.

It keeps me young. It keeps me active. It keeps me wanting to know more and discover new things. And on and on!! Loved reading the others’ responses above: great topic Sharon.

Reply
Elena October 26, 2014 - 1:43 am

Beautiful blog, beautiful story.

Reply
Leslie in Little Rock October 26, 2014 - 2:00 am

Very encouraging post! I’m glad you took your friend’s advice. (-;

Reply
Joanne Boulter October 26, 2014 - 4:22 am

Ditto, ditto, ditto! I felt like you were telling me my story. I think that many of us reach a point in our lives where it’s time for change, but HOW! I raised four children, they were all grown and out on their own, I divorced my husband because of abuse, and I felt dead for about five years. Then I ask myself, “If you could what would you like to do the most, what is your passion?” Well, that was easy Interior Design. I thought who is stopping me from doing what I love? Me? I finished school with a Interior Design of Arts, and then one year later I started sharing my love on a blog. I read many blogs about Interior Design and thought I can do that, I want to share my passion for Interior Design. I have been blogging 6 months now and for about four of those months I thought why am I doing this no one is reading it? So I ask the dear blog writers to help me get going, and you know what within a short 6 weeks I had over 100 followers, and talk about new friends! The road I am on know is humming. I love it.

Thank you so much for your blog, and the words you write, they inspire me.

((HUGS)) Jo

Reply
Botanic Bleu October 26, 2014 - 4:40 am

Sharon,
Thank you for writing My French Country Life for through it I vicariously live my dream life in France arranging flowers and shopping for brocante.

Botanic Bleu was created to share my story… Don’t let it be forgot that once there was a spot for happy ever aftering known as Camelot. Botanic Bleu is my Camelot.

Judith

Reply
Sue Malizia October 26, 2014 - 5:54 am

I’m so very pleased that you felt you needed to reinvented yourself and created your lovely blog. I am the lucky recipient on the other end….

First by finding it and viewing what’s on your mind almost daily…whether it be about your beautiful home and how you’ve created a haven, life style, your brocante finds, gardening, recipes, stories you’ve written, and fantasy fashion picks…all with that french flair which I love. I feel a connection when reading your blog, like I’ve found an unexpected friend. 🙂

Reply
Wendy Peat October 26, 2014 - 7:45 am

Hello Sharon,
Loved your blog today reinventing ourselves!
Reinvention came upon me when I became a grandmother to 7 grandie’s.
You get to do all the things again you mentioned in your first paragraph, which I also loved and fully embraced.
But…. you get to send them back, put your feet up, have glass of wine and read your blog. Bliss!
Thankyou for bringing delight to my day!
Cheers
Wendy
‘from down under’

Wendy Peat

Reply
Sandra M. October 26, 2014 - 9:17 am

Hello from south Brazil,
I do love your blog, as it´s a nice way to know about France. This post is great, as I had to reinvent myself too, when I retired, the empty nest and so. I am since them a volunteer in a local hospital and a NGO for pets adoption (I´m a veterinarian).

It seems that this is a common situation for all of us and it´s great to know how other ones are dealing. And I didn´t had the courage to start a blog, even thou my daughter incentivates me to do one with my patchwork and quilting hobby. Ok, I already have a Pinterest account, seems to be enough!

Best regards, a big hug

And the photos are so great, thank you, thank you

Reply
Lin Powell October 26, 2014 - 2:53 pm

Two years ago my husband, sister and myself visited France for 3 weeks. Your blog was one of the ways I prepared for our trip and kept the memories of it fresh after we returned. But I also enjoy your honesty in the blogs. Sometimes I think I am the only one having feelings of having to reinvent myself after empty nest. But then I read your blog and the notes others leave as comments and I feel part of a group. I am trying to spend more time on my artistic endeavors. I got a drawing course book and am working my way through the exercises in order, a step at a time, not skipping the ones that don’t appeal this time. I have a goal of doing something “artsy” every day…sometimes zentangles, sometimes watercolors, sometimes drawing. On days when I am too busy or not feeling up to producing art, I mix paint, clear up my art room and/or read an inspirational art book. I haven’t locked myself into a time frame, but give myself permission to spend even as little as 5 min doing a quick sketch in order to fulfill my daily art goal. A shift in life experiences and goals is a good thing to keep us fresh don’t you think. Thanks for your French blog and beautiful photos.

Reply
beth October 26, 2014 - 3:58 pm

Wow……. it’s although you’ve been reading my mind! My children are growing up and I have become profoundly aware of how I need to reinvent my self for the next chapter. I enjoyed hearing that you had no idea how you were going to do it…… you just jumped!
Thank you.

Reply
Laura Wilson October 26, 2014 - 4:06 pm

When my youngest son was a junior in high school, I began to search out something to do that would make my life as fulfilling and creative as raising three boys. What began with freelance writing ended with becoming a chef. I went to and graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris by age 53. Now I have a successful and DEMANDING, ever-evolving job as a chef and I love it. I think it has also been good for my children and husband watch me continue to learn, struggle, and grow instead of just plating bridge or golf all the time.
I love reading your blog and many others–it really adds to my adoration of French life.

Reply
Michelle Mortensen October 26, 2014 - 4:14 pm

It was so nice to read this post and all of the comments. So many of us have a similar story. I was a stay-at-home mom for over a decade. Then, when my children were older, I began a new career as an elementary school teacher (& I loved it). Suddenly, medical issues have forced me to take a leave of absence. For a few weeks, I felt lost at sea. Then, I began my blog as a creative outlet and a way to connect with others all over the world. It has saved me. I love writing (I was an English major in college). I love photography. Above all, however, I love connecting with others with blogs. It has allowed me to “be” with others even on the days that my medical condition has forced me to stay in bed.
Thank you, Sharon, for this wonderful post. I adore all (most?) things French, so I always enjoy your blog.
I would like to invite you and your readers to visit my blog at simplysantabarbara.blogspot.com
Best,
Michelle

Reply
Colleen Taylor October 26, 2014 - 4:36 pm

When I began reading this post Sharon, it was as if you were describing my life raising my children almost to a T. You write so beautifully & as you know I love your blog as your legions of fans do.
Years ago, I worked in the corporate high heeled world for a long time but I never stopped painting in one form or another. I guess you could say there was no re-inventing for me since it was always there albeit small at the time. When I finally had enough of toiling in other ‘vineyards,’ I quickly picked up the pace with a fierce passion. You know my work since you featured it here last year. Those lovely & overwhelming comments still make me smile broadly.
Now, the re-invention has taken on a new twist of sorts. This is a brand new product I’m developing. I certainly have not & will never abandon my current paintings. With the new products, there is still an abundance of painting. This is slowly taking shape & exciting things are beginning to happen. I say this as I take a very deep breath because change is always scary, no matter who you are or how old you are. The fun & anticipation is always in the challenge of it all.
I’m so happy you’re here Sharon, Much love from afar. X

Reply
La Contessa October 26, 2014 - 6:42 pm

Tis I your CONTESSA………
I do believe in 2010 you were close to my age now; I applaud YOU for your TOAST and doing something about it!You have CREATED a BEAUTIFUL LIFE for yourself………..I applaud you!As I still am spinning trying to figure out the next step…………….I did not read all the comments now but will go back when I have the time and see if someone OUT THERE has an idea.If an idea should POP to your mind for me please pass it on……….I am OPEN to suggestions!!XOXO

Reply
Mary Feguson October 26, 2014 - 9:01 pm

Yes, I would like to receive your posts. thank you very much
Mary

Reply
Heloisa de mesquita inoue October 26, 2014 - 9:58 pm

Depois de ter os filhos criados, as obrigações cumpridas, finalmente chegou o dia de ser simplesmente, “Madame”!

Madame Heloisa

Reply
Doré @ BurlapLuxe October 27, 2014 - 12:14 am

Hi Sharon,
Such truth to your writings. I kind of made a pact with myself to always reinvent myself, keeping ideas and inspiration at reach.
It’s so sad when life takes this turn of needed less, having to find oneself less active in our children’s lives except when they want something, and were so ready to meet those needs. The beauty you express here I know yours plans for reinventing yourself will include ones full of grace and beauty.

Beautiful photos, dreamy walks.

Xx
Bisous

Doré

Reply
Nancy October 27, 2014 - 2:32 am

Sharon, you don’t know me. I live a world away in a small town in Tenn., USA. My life is very different from yours and yet, there is so much that is similar. I discovered your site quite by accident and then had the pleasure of going back and reading back “issues” of your blog. The world can seem hectic and crazy but when I sit and read your blog, it seems to calm the inner me that is frazzled. I started writing short stories on my facebook account because I wanted to make people smile. I have yet to venture into the world of blogging myself, a little shy and a little nervous to make such a step. Recently, life gave me a little kick in the gut and now, perhaps, I will have to reinvent myself. We shall see. Today’s posting just kind of tugged at my heart. Thanks for doing such a nice job and sticking with it. It is a joy to read. Sincerely, Nancy

Reply
Rita October 27, 2014 - 3:20 am

I have always been a collector, thrift store hunter, lover of all things blue and white….but blogging? What’s that? Thanks to my daughter Ryan at The Blooming Thread I was introduced to this community of sharing and peeking into someone else’s beautiful world.I love it and learn something new everyday.:)

Reply
Jeanne....Collage of Life October 27, 2014 - 4:53 am

And you do it so well Sharon…It has been a pleasure watching your “reinvention” unfold. I count myself one of the lucky ones to be there from the beginning… xx

Reply
Colleen October 27, 2014 - 4:57 am

Hello Sharon, I love your blog and your command of grammar and punctuation. It makes reading it so easy and a pleasure.
My grown-up daughters have been begging me to start a blog for a long time, but I don’t have the confidence to start. There are so many beautiful blogs out there and being me, I can’t imagine that anyone would be interested in what I have to say.
I visit your blog every morning and get so excited when I see that you have posted something – please don’t ever stop.

Reply
Caroline Lacroix October 27, 2014 - 11:55 am

Merci Sharon pour votre blog. Je serais bien incapable d’écrire aussi bien et je préfère vous lire, ainsi que quelques autres blogs en langue anglaise. Ainsi, je voyage, j’apprends beaucoup de choses (même sur Paris et la décoration française!) et je perfectionne mon anglais, tout cela grâce à internet. Je crains parfois d’être un peu indiscrète en vous lisant mais ce n’est vraiment pas mon intention.

Reply
Rebecca Hively October 27, 2014 - 5:53 pm

Your thoughts are so relative, but not just for those in the 40s or 50s. I’m 61 and still thinking about it! And wondering……….where do I go next?

Reply
Jules October 27, 2014 - 9:17 pm

Hello Sharon,
I have not commented on your blog before but I do read it regularly. I love your photos. They are stunning! You have also introduced me to people and places I would not otherwise have known. Thank you for such a lovely blog. If you keep creating I’ll keep tuning in.

Reply
Andreana October 28, 2014 - 4:25 pm

What a wonderful post. Thank you so much for reminding me that it is okay to have a moment for oneself. I am a 41 year old mom of 2 boys, 13 & 15 and I always feel like I’m in need of some ME time. I never have the chance to get to it because of everyone else’s needs. I started blogging in August to give myself some time to share with others my thoughts and ideas but after the very first post I stopped. I had negative thoughts about my ability to write and wondered if anyone would care to read it. After your post today I feel inspired to keep typing away for I am too “reinventing” myself. Today you have changed me for the better and I thank you again.

Reply
Colette October 31, 2014 - 5:30 pm

Thank you Sharon for your outstanding blog and this post! You definitely are a great inspiration for bloggers and your readers.

The more I try blogging, the more I realize ‘virtual’ connexions are really surprising. They can also help you reinvent yourself by reevaluating what ‘virtual friendship’ -usually associated to net friends- means.

You can actually loose some friends by showing what you truly like/are on a blog. Some friends will say they do not like the virtual dimension of internet, that they prefer real life…. But do they really feel uneasy with the blogging exercise, or just do not like what they see and would rather stick to a less defined profile and routine chats about daily life…? What about those my blog encourages to express what THEY like… and I realize we are worlds apart…;))

On the other end, I enjoy more and more relating to people who share common interests with the blog, at least they respond spontaneously to pictures they like: some communication truly happens.

To be or not to be virtual, that is a question for a Halloween evening, isn’t it? Cheers and so many thanks again!

Colette

Reply
Marian from UK November 2, 2014 - 4:07 pm

Thank you Sharon for this blog. I had to reinvent when I was made redundant from an office job of 13 years. I re-trained as a Foot Health Practitioner and have had my own part time private practice for 7 years, visiting people in their homes to look after their feet – such and important thing! Since beginning to read your blog, I have decided to try and create my own. I’m a couple of years from retirement and plan to try and be creative once I have more time. My children are grown, but the next phase of gorgeous grandchildren has begun! And that helps you see the world anew. I can’t wait to get stuck in with my ideas and to begin a blog, despite being nervous and like everyone, thinking no one will be interested! But yours is an inspiration. Full of beauty, wisdom and information. I love it. Thank you.

Reply

Leave a Comment