Yesterday I was honored to help celebrate my paternal grandmother's 89th birthday. My Mommom is the image and "cover girl" of longevity, as she gracefully matures well with independence, good health, mental clarity, wit and spunk.
Married to my grandfather for 56 years (now widowed for 10 years), raised 3 children, suffered great losses, experienced great joys ~
she has created a life born of hard work, perseverance and pride.
To know this lady is to love her immensely, with terrific admiration, and gratitude.
One of her many birthday gifts ... (and, no, she doesn't cut her own lawn ;)
She never forgets a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or special occasion of any kind. I always look forward to receiving her thoughtful cards in the mail. She keeps a daily journal in her calendar. She takes impeccable care of her lovely home of 57 years on the main line in Pennsylvania. She has a sarcastic, fun-natured wit about her; and some have called her the "crab" of the family. ;) All in good fun, of course.
She was born and raised in Maryland, so it's always fitting that we should enjoy a good crab dinner in her honor.
Afterall, Maryland is for crabs! And she is no exception ;)
When I asked her what the secret to long life is, she replied, "Honey, I don't know." She told me that she wants to stick around, but only if she can continue to take care of herself and live a "good life." She's fiercely independent, although, she has never learned how to drive a car or operate a VCR. She worries about her waist size, eats like a "bird." Watches her pennies, saves everything, and when I say "everything," I do mean everything!
Whatever her secrets are, she is loved and adored by so many. She is grateful for her life, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all of her extended family; her home, her health, and her independence.
Here's to you, Mommom! Many more healthy, wonderful years to come.
Your family is forever grateful for your loving, devoted influence.
You are an angel, and I love you.
Cheers!!!
All the best,
Barb
