Happy 90th!

I am blessed to have this woman as my grandmother. As a child, we lived in the same town as my grandparents for most of my first 9 years. My grandparents house was a favorite destination and it was there I received some of the best news I've ever received-that I had a brother!

Over the years, I've come to know her better and I'm more and more impressed by her spirit. She still can laugh at the difficult process of aging, that can seem so terrifying. She survived the loss of my grandfather, her beloved life partner for 64 years. Through all of life's hard knocks (and she's had her share), she has kept the twinkle in her eye.

She worked hard and then knew how to relax and make memories. She likes football, and when I discovered I was one of the few women I know that actually loves the game, I felt a little less awkward about it. I'm in good company.

She mastered all the "womanly" arts like cooking, crocheting, and cleaning. But she also went to college, held a job outside the home, and traveled the world.
 
In my life, she has been a key encourager. She celebrated my occasions (birthdays, baptism, graduations, wedding, and babies). She encourages me to keep writing, publish, and not be so hard on myself. And when I think I'm feeling old, I remember that she still has a driver's license, loves to get out and do fun things, and answers my emails.

She asked for a family-only celebration for her birthday and then was surprised when nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews decided to fly and drive from all parts of the country.  Her children really do rise up and call her blessed. (Prov. 31)

 Happy Birthday Grandma! I love you! And when you turn 100, I'll be certain the President sends you a card.

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