FIVE MILES UNDER THE SPEED LIMIT??????

I think that is a nice way of saying that I am “officially older than dirt!” I am now sixty years old (it looks better spelled out!)………Who knew that this number was even possible? I will be the first to admit that it was really a hard one for me.  I don’t feel old in my mind, but my body seems to be agreeing with the numerical figure. (What figure?)  Well, the alternative isn’t that great either so on I go.  I called and begged my parents to be my birthday present and they graciously consented.  They came in on a Wednesday night and were leaving Friday morning, not enough time for me.  So I begged a little more and they stayed all the way until Saturday morning!  Everything is easier with my folks!  Thank you so much Mom and Dad. They know they are everything to me.  They went to see us in Rendezvous and in Sunset, we drove around, played cards and had a wonderful time.  I loved introducing them to all of my friends here.  The Mission President asked my folks to sit with them on the front row, reserved seating for the elite, and my Mom politely refused!!! What can I say?

I worked in Land and Records that day and had people come in to wish me a Happy Birthday.  The Openshaws being the first.   Then Ruth Wartley came in bearing gifts and from then on it was crazy.  I was being called out every few minutes for someone who was sent to tell me Happy Birthday.  After about the fifth person, that I didn’t know, I got suspicious that someone was sending them, but who?  Elder Oppie had put a sign out on the building that if you went in you were to wish me a Happy Birthday!

What a stinker, but what fun. Sister Nunn, my site leader, brought me cupcakes, which I shared with the band members.

  As they drove away they started playing “Happy Birthday,” and I just bawled.

  I’m pretty sure I cried through this whole day, no I am really sure.  From there Richard took me to Keokuk to eat at an Italian place, which I really like and he doesn’t.  The waitress came over and gave us dessert and had everyone sing.  There were people that had been in L & R that day and knew it was my birthday and paid for my dessert!!!! They thanked us for our service as missionaries.  They said their children had been very touched by the spirit of Nauvoo. Buying dessert for someone, I  thought that only happened in the movies.

It was wonderful and very touching. Richard had an oil painting on canvas by Greg Olsen, sent to the house.  It is the picture of Santa Claus holding the figurine of the Christ Child. The Santa Claus happens to be none other than our own Roger Wise, Elder that Is.  He is the model for all of Greg Olsens’ paintings and I will have it personally autographed!!!! Look for it at my house at Christmas! What a treasure, the picture and Elder Wise!

We drive back to Nauvoo and waiting at my house are about 25 people!

The Openshaws had a surprise party for me.  Decorations everywhere and a huge cake complete with singing.  (Here is where I am crying again.)

Then while everyone is watching me, Richard has me open my present from the children.  What does it contain?  A box that had 94 letters written to me by family and friends.

This is where I am speechless, honored, overcome, humbled and after reading them………………………very blessed.  I started with reading my mother’s and didn’t read anymore in front of people.  I have cried for days as I have gone through this gift that has meant more to me than words can express.  It reminded me of that very old show on TV, “This Is Your Life!”  I can not even begin to relate the feelings I have had as I sit here and relive some of my past relationships and moments.  I have been very blessed and the people that have contributed to who I am are dear, loved and just plain a gift from God.  These people have all been so kind and gracious in their appraisal of me and our memories together, but it is truly I who have been the recipient of all good things. I will cherish each and every sentiment and they and their authors will be stored in the quiet and cherished walls of my heart.  Thank you for giving meaning to the everyday, simple, common traits of who I am……………………………………………………………….. 

So five miles under the speed limit……..I’m still driving,  and oh, what a ride it has been, and will continue to be, until they take away my license!