There’s nothing like an epoch birthday—the kind that starts a new decade—to start a person thinking.
And I’m thinking I’m lucky to be healthy, happy and not ready to give up my youthful habits. Age gracefully? Yes, I plan to. When I’m old.
Take the matter of gray hair. With rare exception, we will all turn gray, and I plan to do that—someday. Darn right, I color my hair. Every time I leave my hairdresser, a glance in the mirror at my artificially colored tresses tells me Mother Nature’s been fooled for another six weeks.
Maybe its denial or perhaps I’m simply immature, but I can’t give up certain youthful aspects. Toenails— for example. Mine are painted bright Kelly green thanks to the influence of a young gal whom I accompanied for a spa afternoon, celebrating her 18th birthday. When the pedicurist finished filing and massaging and trimming my toenails, she asked which color of nail polish I wanted. I pointed to the usual boring red, but my young friend Molly suggested, “Why don’t you do green. Something different.”
I did, loved it and have been wearing green toenail polish ever since. I’m thinking maybe a sparkling blue for my next pedicure.
Fingernails are another matter. I’ve stayed somewhat traditional but not altogether conservative since my favorite colors are I’m Not Really a Waitress, Fishnet Stockings and Wrapped in Rubies. At Christmas time, my manicurist decorates my fingers with stars or trees or tiny Santa Clauses. The red white and blue of American flags adorn my nails for the Fourth of July.
While watching my two granddaughters dance during my last visit, I asked 7-year-old Natalie and 3-year-old Cami to show me the latest moves. They obliged although I could tell from their polite encouragement, that I needed more practice. The gyrations were a little strenuous but I think I can handle them in time. They promised to work further with me at my next visit.
I love jeans and wearing them is another youthful habit I just can’t give up. Here my daughter helps keep me updated, the right length, fit and style.
However, even the most optimistic aging person simply has to let go of certain things. After watching granddaughter Natalie perform some gymnastic moves, I got a little carried away, tried to do a cartwheel and my wrists crumpled. That was a line not to be crossed again.
I probably will never get a tattoo (although I’ve seen some cute dainty ones). I will never pierce more body parts than I already have— ear lobes are enough—and I think I can safely say that a bikini bathing suit is not in my future.
If I’m lucky, someday I will truly be old. If not, I’ll have a lot of fun along the way.
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