A New Year
Rosanne Trost
Sarah sips champagne. Alone, by choice. Treated herself to a pricey bottle of bubbly. Candles lit. Roaring fire in the fireplace.
She reflects on the year. So many changes.
Early retirement. Her choice. Long hours, plus weekends. It was time to leave. Excitement tinged with anxiety.
Sarah’s son, Greg, wondered aloud, “Mom, will you be bored? You’ve always worked.” Greg, so serious.
“You can redefine your life. How exciting.” Sarah’s daughter-in-law, Annie, always Sarah’s champion, hugged her. “You’re a doer. Go for it.”
Her lifelong friend, Leigh, cheered her on. “Sarah, now it’s your time. Have some fun. You deserve it.”
Redefining began with watercolor classes. This type of art had always appealed to her. She had several watercolors in her study. They gave an air of tranquility to the room.
Small class size. Interesting people of all ages. Some artists with potential. Sarah struggled a bit but enjoyed being creative. She had no dreams of a future art exhibit.
When the series ended, Sarah continued her friendship with Ella, a good artist, young and lonely in a new town. At times Ella seemed like a daughter. As she made new friends, Ella often invited Sarah to join them for happy hour, or Sunday brunch. Fun, energetic group.
Next, Sarah enrolled in evening conversational French classes taught at the local college. Years ago, she and her husband had discussed vacationing in France. Unfortunately, Doug died before they could make their plans. Sarah had lost interest in traveling to France, but now felt a pull to learn the language.
After several weeks of classes, the teacher mentioned that he was taking a group of undergrad students to Paris. There were two spots left if anyone in the evening class was interested. Without a moment of hesitation, Sarah raised her hand. “I want to take one of the spots.” Surprised by her own spontaneity.
She bought new luggage, new clothes all with Leigh’s input.
***
Everything about Paris was wonderful. She had many opportunities to practice her newfound language. Traveling on day trips with the group, or quiet times in cafes, Sarah loved all of it. Curiously, she felt at home.
Another pleasant surprise, Sarah became friends with the French teacher and his partner. Both had a wealth of knowledge about the country. They also knew a great deal about French grapes and introduced her to a wide range of wines.
Back home, she continued French classes, and dabbled in watercolor. Often, Ella would come over and they spent Sunday afternoons painting. Sarah used her French photos and attempted to capture the memories on paper.
Over the summer, a few opportunities came Sarah’s way. Her former boss invited her to come back to work as a consultant. “Sarah, it’s part time and your skills are just what we need. Please consider it.”
Of course, she was flattered, but knew this was not part of redefining her life. It was easy to decline.
Ella moved to a townhouse and asked for Sarah’s assistance with decorating. “Your house is cozy and elegant.” Sarah was thrilled to help her. She had the time.
When Leigh was blindsided by her husband’s infidelity, she turned to Sarah. Leigh had always been there for Sarah, and now she was in crisis. Many evenings were devoted to wine, tears and supporting Leigh.
All along, the French classes continued.
So tonight, Sarah thinks about this year of change. Her life has been redefined; she likes who she’s become.
Tomorrow, over New Year’s Day dinner with Greg and Annie, she will share her news.
“I’m going to Paris in the spring and plan to stay a while.”
Rosanne Trost
Rosanne Trost is a retired oncology nurse, residing in Houston, Texas. After retirement, she discovered her passion for creative writing. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications, including Chicken Soup for the Soul, Commuter Lit, Months To Years and Ravens Perch.