Entering The Youth of My Old Age
Happy birthday to me27 total reviews
Comment from Sis Cat
Making life count, at any age, is the only way. I try not to worry about how much time I have left as a storyteller, but I cannot allow myself to be paralyzed by it. I try to take one day at a time and do a modicum of good that I did not do the day before. You wrote an exceptional essay and your request will be answered. Thanks.
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Making life count, at any age, is the only way. I try not to worry about how much time I have left as a storyteller, but I cannot allow myself to be paralyzed by it. I try to take one day at a time and do a modicum of good that I did not do the day before. You wrote an exceptional essay and your request will be answered. Thanks.
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Very kind words, Thank you very much.
Comment from judiverse
I like your hair style. Very youngish. If it helps, I saw on TV a segment about sixty being the new 40. That surely makes 90 the new 70. Focusing on what matters, rather than age, is the way to go. I enjoyed your mention of the cosmetics counters and all they freebees. They used to entice me, but no more. I just take what I can find at the supermarket. I don't know what I'd think about those regression techniques your therapist tried. Wonder what good it would do to hug yourself. Great work in this, and keep fighting the good fight. judi
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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I like your hair style. Very youngish. If it helps, I saw on TV a segment about sixty being the new 40. That surely makes 90 the new 70. Focusing on what matters, rather than age, is the way to go. I enjoyed your mention of the cosmetics counters and all they freebees. They used to entice me, but no more. I just take what I can find at the supermarket. I don't know what I'd think about those regression techniques your therapist tried. Wonder what good it would do to hug yourself. Great work in this, and keep fighting the good fight. judi
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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In a way, the regression seemed to give a reassurance to the present by recognizing the courage and strength of the past. Hard to explain. It didn't really fix anything, but was very soothing. Thanks.
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You're very welcome. Pampering yourself occasionally sounds like a good idea. I don't bother much with makeup any more. I drove past a Merle Norman recently and thought about making an appointment for a consultation. Then I realized I probably wouldn't use the makeup they recommended. judi
Comment from patsolstad
I came to read this after reading smurphgirl's response to you. I really enjoyed your piece. I, myself, am now 73 years old. I must admit that 70 was a tough birthday for me. It was on that birthday that I realized I probably didn't have a lot of years left (although I'm quite healthy now). Your story made me stop and think about my own situation. If I have any advice, it would be to be as active as you can. I am taking ukulele lessons (try not to smile when you think of a ukulele), just finished taking a writing course online--here at FanStory, and volunteer with my local Early Childhood program (kids sure can keep you from feeling really old). I know you will find your way. I can tell from the sound of your 'voice' that you are a survivor! Great read!
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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I came to read this after reading smurphgirl's response to you. I really enjoyed your piece. I, myself, am now 73 years old. I must admit that 70 was a tough birthday for me. It was on that birthday that I realized I probably didn't have a lot of years left (although I'm quite healthy now). Your story made me stop and think about my own situation. If I have any advice, it would be to be as active as you can. I am taking ukulele lessons (try not to smile when you think of a ukulele), just finished taking a writing course online--here at FanStory, and volunteer with my local Early Childhood program (kids sure can keep you from feeling really old). I know you will find your way. I can tell from the sound of your 'voice' that you are a survivor! Great read!
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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I would never laugh at the ukulele. It is far more manageable than a guitar and you make music. Good for you! Yes, you do understand the pauses we take and the occasional sharp intake of breath as we realize we are closer to the end than the middle or beginning. Thanks for the kind words.
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I think I said that wrong...ukuleles make me smile because they make me so happy. And everyone I play ukes with seems to smile, too. FUN!
Comment from Jumbo J
Hi Ingrid,
firstly, Happy belated Birthday my dear sweet friend! I'd sing to you, but of course you wouldn't hear me... probably a stroke of luck on your end... secondly, I'm now settled in my mind, actually getting to see your beautiful face and smile for the very first time... also great to see Alexis and Aiden as they seem to be a staple in your wonderful life stories.
You really did make me smile, chuckle and laugh... the slight about the 'Dumbo' ears, took me straight back to me... see Jumbo's been my family nickname for as long as I have memory... and I always thought it was because I had... yes! Big flappers... but it turns out it was more because I was a big kid and had a a tendency never to forget... but anyway the statement had me laughing at the both of us and obviously Alexis and Aiden got in on the joke as well.
Of course I'm not going to be able to give any real advice, seen as though I'm a senseless fifty four going on sixty four... but one thing I might know the best way to stay away from doing the age thing, is to stay in the now... yeah, isn't that a hard ask for a writer? And besides you're only as old as you feel, right? Hmmmmmm, hell that puts me right back at sixty four again... well no matter it seems all of my closest friends have always been around that ten years my senior... and to tell you the truth, I found that to be of a big advantage... wisdom will always out-weigh a youthful ego... but it will be the turn of the insolent youth to suffer the same ah, 'here she/he goes again' in time... for time has no master, and all laughs are revisited on the perpetrator... by the way, love your new hairstyle, but now you have me wondering what the old looked like? Anyway, the colour is complimentary and the cut frames your face beautifully.
Once again you know the right recipe to entertain us at every turn, yes, even at the expense of yourself... so, all the very best at finding the balance to the aging thing... one more thing... just be yourself, act how you feel, love what you love, get angry, be happy, smile, frown... well not too much frowning it causes wrinkles, but it does work the facial muscles... so what I'm trying to say, everything works out, everything passes, we can only ever be us, that's who we are.
Love you, no not only for your beauty, love your mind as well... smile))))))))))).
With our thoughts we create,
endless youth,
James vx's
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Hi Ingrid,
firstly, Happy belated Birthday my dear sweet friend! I'd sing to you, but of course you wouldn't hear me... probably a stroke of luck on your end... secondly, I'm now settled in my mind, actually getting to see your beautiful face and smile for the very first time... also great to see Alexis and Aiden as they seem to be a staple in your wonderful life stories.
You really did make me smile, chuckle and laugh... the slight about the 'Dumbo' ears, took me straight back to me... see Jumbo's been my family nickname for as long as I have memory... and I always thought it was because I had... yes! Big flappers... but it turns out it was more because I was a big kid and had a a tendency never to forget... but anyway the statement had me laughing at the both of us and obviously Alexis and Aiden got in on the joke as well.
Of course I'm not going to be able to give any real advice, seen as though I'm a senseless fifty four going on sixty four... but one thing I might know the best way to stay away from doing the age thing, is to stay in the now... yeah, isn't that a hard ask for a writer? And besides you're only as old as you feel, right? Hmmmmmm, hell that puts me right back at sixty four again... well no matter it seems all of my closest friends have always been around that ten years my senior... and to tell you the truth, I found that to be of a big advantage... wisdom will always out-weigh a youthful ego... but it will be the turn of the insolent youth to suffer the same ah, 'here she/he goes again' in time... for time has no master, and all laughs are revisited on the perpetrator... by the way, love your new hairstyle, but now you have me wondering what the old looked like? Anyway, the colour is complimentary and the cut frames your face beautifully.
Once again you know the right recipe to entertain us at every turn, yes, even at the expense of yourself... so, all the very best at finding the balance to the aging thing... one more thing... just be yourself, act how you feel, love what you love, get angry, be happy, smile, frown... well not too much frowning it causes wrinkles, but it does work the facial muscles... so what I'm trying to say, everything works out, everything passes, we can only ever be us, that's who we are.
Love you, no not only for your beauty, love your mind as well... smile))))))))))).
With our thoughts we create,
endless youth,
James vx's
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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For the kind words, and the continual support, I thank you. You hace so much positive energy, you don't have to stretch your voice to try to be hear, your gentle soul is felt by those who are blessed by your attention. Thank you.
Comment from rama devi
Happy Birthday (belated...)!
You look young and energetic in that picture, dear. I like your haircut, too!
I enjoyed this candid sharing. It's well penned, easy to read, and flows well (though there are a few sentences that could use a tweak or two--noted below, in case you'd like to edit this).
NOTES
*periodically(,) I make a conscious decision that something must change.
*Now(,) the salon is used to my theatrics, though I prefer the intimacy of these visits to be thought of (as) a research for characters in my stories,
FUN IRONIC LINE: always staffed with nubile young women who purport to be experts on anti-aging products.
Well voiced:
I walked in singing 'Happy Birthday' to me, and announced to the twenty-something darlings behind the counter that I was entering the youth of my old age and needed help spring-boarding into that chasm.
*Suggest making this two sentences:
So far, so good, I thought, and an hour later I was having lunch with two beautiful women, friends that I cherish in spite of their mocking of me--I'm the oldest.
Cute humor here too: --Hell, I'm not blind yet--I saw it coming.
*It's the implications of old age, being rightfully and legally a senior citizen(,) that makes me ponder.
* but tragically(,) some of those insights can't be used again.
*
I was(have been) blessed with several mentors along the way(,) who were highly responsible for the success I achieved in different areas of my life.
*Making life count, at any age(,) is not only a noble quest, I'm certain it is the only way I will enjoy the autumn of my years.
Nice closing note:
Fellow seniors, should you have some sage advice to offer, unlike your kids, I will listen.
May all your years shine abundantly with love, light, peace and joy!
Hugs, rd
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Happy Birthday (belated...)!
You look young and energetic in that picture, dear. I like your haircut, too!
I enjoyed this candid sharing. It's well penned, easy to read, and flows well (though there are a few sentences that could use a tweak or two--noted below, in case you'd like to edit this).
NOTES
*periodically(,) I make a conscious decision that something must change.
*Now(,) the salon is used to my theatrics, though I prefer the intimacy of these visits to be thought of (as) a research for characters in my stories,
FUN IRONIC LINE: always staffed with nubile young women who purport to be experts on anti-aging products.
Well voiced:
I walked in singing 'Happy Birthday' to me, and announced to the twenty-something darlings behind the counter that I was entering the youth of my old age and needed help spring-boarding into that chasm.
*Suggest making this two sentences:
So far, so good, I thought, and an hour later I was having lunch with two beautiful women, friends that I cherish in spite of their mocking of me--I'm the oldest.
Cute humor here too: --Hell, I'm not blind yet--I saw it coming.
*It's the implications of old age, being rightfully and legally a senior citizen(,) that makes me ponder.
* but tragically(,) some of those insights can't be used again.
*
I was(have been) blessed with several mentors along the way(,) who were highly responsible for the success I achieved in different areas of my life.
*Making life count, at any age(,) is not only a noble quest, I'm certain it is the only way I will enjoy the autumn of my years.
Nice closing note:
Fellow seniors, should you have some sage advice to offer, unlike your kids, I will listen.
May all your years shine abundantly with love, light, peace and joy!
Hugs, rd
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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You are a precious gem. As you can see, mu comma deficient disorder is also an affliction I bear. Thanks so much.
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Aw, thanks, love. You're a gem too...precious!
I used to suffer from the same affliction, by the way. It's treatable! LOL :)
Comment from Dean Kuch
You poor women have to put so much thought, invest so much time and money in looking beautiful. In reality, you're all beautiful, regardless of what you do or don't do with your hair or make-up.
As I read this and looked at the photo of you and your lovely grandchildren, I smiled knowing how blessed you truly are, Ingrid. There are many of us out here who would trade you just one of our smile lines for one of your frowning ones. Especially if they could make as look as happy as you do in your photograph.
Happy 65th birthday, my dear friend. Here's wishing you many more to come!
~Dean
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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You poor women have to put so much thought, invest so much time and money in looking beautiful. In reality, you're all beautiful, regardless of what you do or don't do with your hair or make-up.
As I read this and looked at the photo of you and your lovely grandchildren, I smiled knowing how blessed you truly are, Ingrid. There are many of us out here who would trade you just one of our smile lines for one of your frowning ones. Especially if they could make as look as happy as you do in your photograph.
Happy 65th birthday, my dear friend. Here's wishing you many more to come!
~Dean
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Your kindness is heartfelt and I accept your good wishes with grateful humility. You're right.
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You're very welcome, and I left you a little birthday wish on your profile page as well. I hope you don't mind, heh-heh... ~Dean ;)
Comment from Jay Squires
I don't know how you looked at 64 + 364, but at 65 you're a knockout, Ingrid! Whatever the photographer said, your grands are getting a kick out of it. Your grandson has the look of the imp on his face and your lovely granddaughter couldn't be more amused without wetting herself!
This was very well written, humorous, self-effacing, and the title couldn't be more appropriate.
Thoroughly enjoyable.
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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I don't know how you looked at 64 + 364, but at 65 you're a knockout, Ingrid! Whatever the photographer said, your grands are getting a kick out of it. Your grandson has the look of the imp on his face and your lovely granddaughter couldn't be more amused without wetting herself!
This was very well written, humorous, self-effacing, and the title couldn't be more appropriate.
Thoroughly enjoyable.
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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You smooth talker, you! What a lovely thing to say, but of course, it wasn't a close-up. If you look closely, you'll see my finger in the 'tickle mode'. Yes, I'm still strong enough to hold onto them while I terrorize then with tickles, AND heep on my poker face. Thanks, dear man.
Comment from N.K. Wagner
When you figure it out, Ingrid, let me know! I suspect the key is to do what YOU want to do and enjoy every minute of it. You have friends, family, and a blossoming new career. Is there something else you want? Go out and get it!
Hugs. :) Nancy
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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When you figure it out, Ingrid, let me know! I suspect the key is to do what YOU want to do and enjoy every minute of it. You have friends, family, and a blossoming new career. Is there something else you want? Go out and get it!
Hugs. :) Nancy
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Thanks for the stars, my favourite celestial ornament. Even though I've been self-employed for decades, the time was still piloted by deadlines and need-to-achieves. This is new territory and I could easily never get up from the computer. I'm still working on how to balance that obsession with the outside world.
Comment from Spitfire
Oh, to be 65 again! I turn 73 in late June. Did you read my recent story where I talk about the tattooed eyeliner and brows I gifted myself? Next is the lips. I've done it all thirty years ago, but it fades. Anyway, yesterday I had juvederm injections to plump up my cheeks. It's all costly, but worth the price and the pain. If my face looks good without make-up, I can navigate old age. The other secrets is to stay young at heart, have a cool attitude, and hang around with people who make you laugh. :-)
Great writing as always.
I think you look 45 in the photo.
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Oh, to be 65 again! I turn 73 in late June. Did you read my recent story where I talk about the tattooed eyeliner and brows I gifted myself? Next is the lips. I've done it all thirty years ago, but it fades. Anyway, yesterday I had juvederm injections to plump up my cheeks. It's all costly, but worth the price and the pain. If my face looks good without make-up, I can navigate old age. The other secrets is to stay young at heart, have a cool attitude, and hang around with people who make you laugh. :-)
Great writing as always.
I think you look 45 in the photo.
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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That's because it's not a close-up. Trust me, I have no trouble getting a senior's discount. I'll look up the column. I'm fascinated by this eyeliner tattoo. Thanks.
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It's called The Ouch Ouch OUCH experience. :-)
Comment from Dawn Munro
Wow. Of everything you've written that I've read, I think this one is my favorite, maybe because it echoes my sentiments so closely, but I think more because it's incredibly thoughtful, and I want to read the answers you get. (I could use the advice too.) (I could also use a good shrink and a good hairstylist. LOL)
Masterful. (But what else?)
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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Wow. Of everything you've written that I've read, I think this one is my favorite, maybe because it echoes my sentiments so closely, but I think more because it's incredibly thoughtful, and I want to read the answers you get. (I could use the advice too.) (I could also use a good shrink and a good hairstylist. LOL)
Masterful. (But what else?)
Comment Written 17-Apr-2015
reply by the author on 17-Apr-2015
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See, here in Cambridge, it seems no one is politically correct. Hairdressers say no when they disagree and everybody says hello when you walk into Timmy's and no, they don't know me. Thanks.
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:0)