It's not a birthday or a recognizable anniversary, but today, for me, this day is significant.
We tend to define ourselves in relation to others, I am a wife and a mother. I don't have an outside job, so I can't define myself in terms of an occupation - and I hate the term "housewife". In using these definitions, it is all too easy to forget to look at who we really are.
I'm 54 years old, and today it is exactly twelve months since my last period. According to the medical professionals, I have now been through the menopause.
I am a post-menopausal woman.
It hasn't been easy, I have good days and some bad days. I recognize that this is a time of transition and change and I try to embrace this. I am also aware that, just because I have passed the twelve months milestone, it doesn't mean that things will settle down yet. I'm still having hot flushes, anxiety attacks and weepy sessions (Damn those hormones).
But today, I want to celebrate this. I want to celebrate being a woman. I'm changing, blossoming and looking forward to a long and happy post-menopausal life.
So I'm off to bake a cake, then put my feet up and knit. I think I've earned the right to make time to look after myself.
Wherever you are and what ever you are doing, I hope you get a chance to celebrate your own womanhood and take good care of yourselves.
Wonderful post Janet, I am about 6 years ahead of you it does get easier the hormones settles down. However, you do have to watch the weight it does start to creep up. Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lorraine. It's cake today, but best not have it every day.
DeleteJanet, that is indeed reason to celebrate. I am having difficulty too and I just hate it. Usually I can go with things but not this menopause stuff it is really hard. Best of luck,
ReplyDeleteMeredith
Thank you, it's good to have your support.
DeleteCongratulations! I am glad that you are celebrating this. I think that is wonderful. These hormones are rotten things aren't they. All the up and down! I hope that it will all settle well for you. xx
ReplyDeleteWow an excellent post. At 49 I'm still waiting for this milestone - anytime soon I expect. Definitely a celebration to be had:) x
ReplyDeleteI'm 8 years ahead of you, my symptoms were so bad I took HRT for 5 years and it gave me my life back I was so sorry when I had to stop taking it I know it's controversial but I don't know how I would have coped without. When I did stop the hot flushes came back but not as bad and I still get them now. Things will improve we poor woman have so much to put up with! I hope that enjoyed your cake. :) xx
ReplyDeleteI really needed to see this thank you so much for helping me to look at "me" in a new way🐸
ReplyDeleteSo glad you have appreciated it. It's good to share these experiences.
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