Why wait until 100?

a life full of stories...

Some of you may have read in a previous newsletter that my mom turned 99 last January. That’s a terrible time of year for a party in New England because the weather has a mind of its own. So...her 99½ celebration is happening this weekend when the roads are clear, the flowers are blooming, and hopefully, the sun is shining.

“Why wait until 100? I might not make it,” she said.

I’m confident she will, but I agree. Why wait?

In a few days, my house will be wonderfully full with family. I might be short on chairs, but it will all work out.

Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces will be celebrating my mom’s love for life, her curiosity for everything around her, her sense of humor, and her eternal optimism.

She’ll have a big audience to share her stories which span more years than most people live through. She remembers taking the train from Long Island to the 1939 World’s Fair in Queens, New York, over and over again with a season pass. How cool is that?

Since she’s lived with me for the past ten years, I’ve heard her stories, but the rest of the family hasn’t, and I know they’ll be happy to listen.

She is often asked what the secret to her long life is. Who knows the answer, but I can tell you this from watching her age...

Keep your curiosity.

Laugh often.

Don’t stop doing what you can even if it’s “just” making the salad for dinner.

Stay interested in the people around you.

Never stop asking questions.

I hope when I’m 99½, I’m still sharing stories, laughing with my grandchildren, and—if I’m lucky—still writing mysteries.

And, of course, a big hug to all moms. The world is better because of you.

A note from a Small-Town Detective Dog (from the Cooking Club Murder Mysteries)

Tango’s Paw Prints 🐾

Detective’s Note:

I have investigated this celebration thoroughly.

Great grandma is almost 100, but she still remembers exactly where the dog treats are kept.

That, in my professional opinion, is excellent detective work.

Happy 99½!

—Detective Tango