February 25, 2026

Things I No Longer Do

1. I no longer own more than three sets of sheets for our bed. Gone are the days of sheets for every holiday and season. I now have three sets of sheets, all white. I don't have the energy for a closet full of chaos anymore.

2. I no longer allow myself to feel any sort of way about the life I choose to live. I realize now that I can live my life the way I choose, and others are free to criticize me for that if they feel the need.

3. I no longer care if something is marked "Not Dishwasher Safe." I will take my chances.


4. I no longer vacuum because it is Friday. I like lists and make them, but I don't let them override my common sense. If the floor isn't dirty, it doesn't need to be cleaned. This realization is a perk of aging, and I am here for it.


5. I no longer watch the news daily. I do not need that kind of negativity in my life. News spreads quickly, and if something happens that I need to know, I can check in then. Or not.


6. I no longer worry about repairing relationships that drained the life right out of me. Trying to support, comfort, and be there for someone unable or unwilling to do the same for you is toxic, and it is really alright to admit that, wish them well, and move forward.


7. I no longer apologize or downplay my superpower. I own it.


8. I no longerhave to put the house to bed at night. I have a sweet teenage daughter who folds all the blankets, arranges the pillows, unplugs the lights, empties the dishwasher, and takes out the trash after I go to bed. And I am thankful.

9. I no longer deny that my hero, my inspiration, is no other than Mother Bear. She is everything I want to be. Well, except for the not being human part. 


Happy Wednesday!
Billie Jo



13 comments:

  1. What a great post, Billie Jo! I really enjoyed the graphics you used to make your points. It took me years, but I have gotten to the point where I can wield the word NO without an explanation, reason or excuse. Happy Wednesday!

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  2. I love this Billie Jo and I am the same way about everything. Have a great Wednesday my friend.

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  3. So good and I'm with you on these things! Except I wish I had a Flynn! :)

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  4. Yes to every word! Thank you for putting it in writing for all of us - I absolutely agree with you, but I still waste time asking myself (when it comes to toxic people) “Why?” Why are people comfortable saying things like: “How can you stand to shop there?” When I’m simply choosing the grocery store with the best prices, while perhaps not the most stylish grocery in town. And because I’m rather reserved and quiet, to be told “You don’t fit in.” Is incredibly stunning to hear. While I’m becoming bolder with my responses (in my old age!) I still waste too much time worrying about it. Thank you for buoying me up! You’ve done well, Mama Bear - as evidenced by what a thoughtful young lady Flynn is!

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  5. Good for Flynn for taking care of all those things before she goes to bed. That's a real sign of being responsible. The dishwasher safe one made me chuckle. I never understood why they're not dishwasher safe....will they explode? And the "birds" instead of the news made my heart sing! Thank you for bringing a smile to my face first thing in the morning, Billie Jo. : ) Have a sweet day.

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  6. Love this! Life goals! I have some of them down already. (The dishwasher one? For sure!) Still working on some of them. And eagerly anticipating the day when my floor will not be so dirty to require daily vacuuming!

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  7. I have not watched the news in years thankfully
    I do clean every morning because I like to do so
    I cook for myself daily because I enjoy it
    I get my miles and steps daily
    I keep lists on my planner.
    If I decide to skip something oh well lol
    Enjoy your positive blogs
    Thank you
    Brenda

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  8. Yes, Yes, Yes to all and I especially am so glad that number 3 shows me that I'm not alone in that.

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  9. Interesting about the sheets. We now just use one set. I just wash them and put them back on the bed. Good point in #2. We seldom use our dishwasher much anymore but I usually trust things on the top rack. I agree with you on the floor. I never watch the news and that is nice that you can also move on. That is so sweet of your daughter. I like your hero too!

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  10. I agree with all of this! Especially the toxic relationship one! For sure no fancy sheets, especially when no one else even sees them.

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  11. I so love this! I remember the days of watching Little Bear. Such a peaceful show! I'm with you on the sheets. I have two sets. One that is a just in case set. I generally wash my bedding and put it right back on the bed.

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Thanks so much for saying hello!

Billie Jo