Ninety-six and Counting

 Ninety-Six and Counting

This past weekend, my mother and I had the opportunity to attend a very important birthday party. It was the ninety-sixth birthday for a special woman. Lou is my sister-in-law’s mother. 

Ninety-six is pretty cool, but something I found particularly wonderful was the guest list. Lou is ninety-six and with her stood a few of her siblings for a photo shoot.

Only a few of the family
who traveled from afar for the big day.

She was surrounded by several of her ten children, a bevy of grandchildren and great grandchildren. Moreover, we saw a picture she received in a birthday card showing a sonogram photo of a GREAT-GREAT grandchild on the way. Also in attendance were friends and extended family who all love her.

Lou is pretty cool. She collects elephant figurines and pictures. She enjoys people and offers an easy laugh…even when it’s on her.

My mom is a few years younger than Lou. I enjoyed watching as the two of them sat on the sofa and chatted. When you’re in your nineties, it’s sometimes hard to find people who remember the world in which you grew up. The world you know and understand. 

My Mom and Lou

Even if you’re talking about the food or the party, if you are of the same generation, it is couched in an understanding of the way things once were. When you look at the adults around you, you still speak of them as your children. 

But the best?  The best is the laughter. Fully appreciating those around you. Knowing who you are and embracing every moment with joy.

 

Joy. That is the real gift of birthdays.

I don’t know what God has in mind for me. But if I live to be ninety-six, I want a party with all the bells and whistles. And if I have my way….I won’t be the oldest person in the room.