Grow Old Along With Me

I love that song! (Of course, I loved the poem by Robert Browning, first.)

John Lennon wrote a song version, and then Mary Chapin Carpenter followed with a beautifully lilting “cover” of John’s recording.

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“Ok Crystal, fair enough.

But, what are ya getting at”?

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Bless you, Kids. I know I don’t make it easy. 😉

There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes, here.

We’ve been caught up in meetings, buried in literature, and immersed in the filing of countless forms.

In just a few weeks, Sir Beads is going to retire.

He would tell you that although he has been blessed to work for a wonderful company . . . after 4+ decades – he’s more than ready to leave the everyday stress behind.

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We are happy!!!

We are nervous.

We are excited!!!!

And with the current economy – maybe a little scared!

The whole procedure has very much reminded me of the arduous process of college applications – which we went through several years ago with our girls.

Suddenly we have so many new decisions, lots of choices to make, so much red tape! Who knew?

We ARE making progress, though. Yes, indeed!

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For example, I can now go on for hours about the pros and cons of annuities, the details concerning rollovers, and the differences between Medicare A, B, C, D, Medigap, and Supplement plans . . . whereas a few weeks ago it was pretty much a foreign language. (Fear not, Kids! I have no intention of getting into any of that here.) 😉

The one thing I have no worries about is having more time with Sir Beads. I am actually thrilled about that. Oh, I know there’s been a study that wives in Japan literally become ill when their husbands retire. And I’ve heard stories of women who struggle to maintain their usual schedules with the sudden appearance of husbands who continually want attention, and conversation, and (gasp!) 3-meals-a-day!

Sir Beads and I were married for a few years before our kids arrived so we know the drill. During those pre-kids years, we had a chance to become good “friends”. From the beginning, we learned to compromise and accommodate, how to have fun together and still give each other a little space. We’re feeling confident those lessons will serve us well now.

There won’t be a dull moment. Of that we’re pretty certain!

Grow old along with me;
The best is yet to be
. . .
😀

Hugs,

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You’re Invited . . .

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Remember the wedding I mentioned last week?

Well, the photos are in, and you are cordially invited to the marriage of my sweet nephew and his beautiful new bride.

The Happily Ever After begins . . .

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The ceremony was lovely.

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Even though Tropical Storm “Danny” sent a generous dose of wind and rain to the east coast that weekend, he was not able to dampen spirits. I present the following photo as evidence.

The Groom with his Sisters

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The Parents pose with the Wedding Party

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The reception was a joyous fun-filled celebration, where the soft glow of lanterns set a romantic mood . . .

We Are Family . . .

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There were flowers everywhere and they were absolutely breath-taking. I wish I had taken more pictures of them, especially the huge arrangement in the hallway! It was amazing.

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For your dining pleasure . . .

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The new “Mr. and Mrs.” glided across the dance floor and somehow inspired the most dancing by guests that I’ve ever seen at a wedding – or at any large gathering for that matter! It was heart-warming to see all ages and generations dancing continuously. Why even Sir Beads and Lady Crystal shook a tail feather or two! 😉

Can I have this dance for the rest of my life?

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In the wee hours of the morning, the bride and groom were off on their honeymoon trip. Both are doctors and would need to be back at the hospital on Labor Day!

Leaving on a jet plane . . .

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All in all, it was a weekend our entire family will always cherish. We spent quality time together, we realized how lucky we are, and we truly appreciated this special opportunity to shower our love on both the new couple and each other. 😀

May there be a wedding in your future!!

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