We recently visited my dad to celebrate his 90th birthday. 90 years. When I think about my own life, 90 years seems like such a long time. Yet, my dad fits the expression “90 years young.”
My dad and stepmother will say they are slowing down, while still living in their own home and taking care of themselves as they always have. There are some inevitable health issues and challenges in getting around, but using a cane seems like a minor concession to living through 9 decades!
It was lovely to see them happy and healthy.
Though our visits are infrequent, my dad and I stay in touch with long phone calls and through social media. He’s a “top fan” on my socials, liking and commenting on my posts. He’s also a fan of my books, reading each one and calling to tell me what he thinks. (To the Left of Death is his favorite.)
As I’ve shared before, I’ve never expected to live a long life. My mom died soon after turning 48, and I decided (perhaps irrationally) that I would be fated to a similarly short life. Yet I’m turning 50 this year and have started imagining another future. Seeing my dad reach 90 with grace and good spirit is inspiring. Maybe I have many decades ahead of me as well. Only time will tell.
For now, I’m enjoying life day by day, and I’m happy that I was able to share this milestone birthday with my day. During the weekend, we enjoyed a low-key celebration, including dinner at one of their favorite restaurants. My sister and niece also came to visit, and we were joined by several step-siblings. (My stepmother has a large family!)
Family and Friends
While we were in town, we were also able to spend time with some friends, and I had a chance to have coffee with my lifelong bestie at a scenic spot along Lake Erie. We also went to Holden Arboretum, where we climbed the 120-foot overlook tower, walked the 65-foot high canopy walk, and enjoyed beautiful gardens.
It was a whirlwind trip, as always. Our time was divided between visiting family and friends, with the hours passing quickly. I’m glad we made time for the visit. My dad is now 90 years young, with many years to come.
Happy Birthday, Dad!
One of the best things about becoming 90 is almost 50 years of Susan. ( No offense to her siblings) Thanks for such a lovely post. Sorry it took a while to respond – I finally got my browser to accept the post.