Take me as I am

I often feel under-dressed. Especially since retiring seventeen years ago, I am disinclined to dress up for occasions requiring makeup, tailored clothing or, God forbid high heels. None of those things are required for my present life, often seated in front of a zoom screen. I draw the line at wearing pajamas in front of the people with whom I have long distant relationships, many of whom have become good friends.

I think my reluctance to dress up these days has to do with the loss of a need to impress anyone or the requirement to look good for the public. It helps a lot that I live in Southern California where informality is the norm.

My latest passion is zumba classes and although there are others who are decked out in high fashion sportswear, I show up in my sweats and well worn Sketchers. Once the Latin music starts, I totally lose any reference to what anyone has on. It’s probably the activity that totally removes me from any worries or concerns that are plaguing me.

Likewise, there is no need to wear Patagonia outerwear to hike in the hills near my home, another place where the need to impress anyone has disappeared.

I am happy with the pared down life I lead now and comfortable in my own skin and clothing.

— Oxnard15