Rounding the bend on my morning walk today, with Paul Simon singing ‘Old’ on my iPod, I spotted my neighbor Mrs. Young, who will be 100 on October 11, arms lifted over her head with pruning shears, struggling to cut down a branch weakened from last night’s storm.
I bolted into my house to get my camera, ran back across my lawn and called over to her. “Mrs. Young, may I take your picture? You inspire me so!”
“How’s my hair?” she asked.
I admire Mrs. Young’s great attitude. You can guess what she’s seen and lived through in her 99+ years, and she’s still an optimist. She installed all new windows last season and asked for a 10 year warranty. Surely I can look forward with a positive mental spirit even if the phone isn’t ringing off the hook today.
She handed me the clippers and asked if I might hack through the branch she wanted removed. I have to tell you, I was very happy when it finally gave way to my attempts and fell to the ground. I was able to complete the job my neighbor had industriously begun.






Ah, those old time Yankees! This brought tears to my ears since it reminded me of my great-grandmother pulling out roots of tree saplings with her bare hands. She was in her early 90’s when she managed this feat!
That post sure lived up to your headline! Love it!
Love this!!! Could she have a better last name?????
How wonderful to know I’ll have “Old” running through my brain & the joyous Mrs. Young as a visual through my day–thanks!
Tell Mrs. Young her hair looks great!
Love the photo and the blog is inspiring!
@Karen, Val, Kathryn, Julianne, Peggy and Susan
Your comments inspire me even more. Thank you!
What a wonderful and happy reminder about good life really is!!