Children

I just knew my children would be much more successful than myself. That they would all be able to go to college. Not because they had to, but because they were smart, and would learn from how they grew up that pay check to pay check was not a pleasant way to exist. And what has happened? Smart and capable yes. College bound..no. What happened? I will say this much. Fast food is lucky to have my well read, well spoken 20 year old daughter. What a deal for them. And so sad for her. But she still does not see it. She wanted to be a teacher. Right up until Freshman orientation. I wonder if she regrets her choice to run into the arms of some looser. He is long gone and she has moved on to another one even less inclined to do anything with his life. Doe's she see supporting him on 8 dollars an hour, living with his mother, as a good alternative to  living at home with her parents and going to school? I have two other's with similar fates. And one more destine to follow their paths. All with good grades, potential and the ability to live a better life than they grew up with. When they are on the other side of fifty will they be asking the same questions I am now? I wonder.

My First

Here we go! I am writing this blog for a few reasons. I need a place to share  wisdom with myself and anyone who wants to know how wise I am. I find myself wanting to dish up profound words of advice on social networking sites. However, when completely ignored there are times I get my feelings hurt.  I love a good conversation, even if it is with myself.

I titled my 1st blog On the other side of fifty because I am, on the other side of 50. I find it repugnant that I have so little to show for how hard it has been to get here. And It has been hard. I have never done anything the "easy way" I would not even know how to. I would love to sit down and pick the brain of someone  my age who is educated with a solid career. The person I would choose would have  children in college, a thriving 401k, a house that is paid for, a few cars a, boat and money for a vacation from time to time.. Some may scoff that all I am thinking about are the material things. Hell yes I am. You have to feel secure to be happy. Too bad it took me this long to figure that one out. I relax much better when I know there is money in the checking to put gas in the tank of my faithful 15 year old Explorer, let alone a unexpected doctors visit...or dare I hope there is money for a pedicure..that would be true security.. No, really though. Talk to me. Take me through your life. Choice by choice. So I can do what with it? Nothing. Because I am now on the other side of 50 and anything you did would be to late to work for  me. But shoot..I still want to know.