November 3, 1917: 89 Years and Counting

Yes, I know. It's hard to tell her age with her eyes hiding behind her sunglasses -- procured from a street vendor in Montecatini, Italy last fall.

The highlights of a life well lived: She was married at 26 and birthed her first child at 28. She had nine subsequent pregnancies, mostly two years apart, with her last baby arriving when she was 45 years old. She was married 50+ years to the same man. She's buried one husband and two children. She graduated from The University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts degree when she was 83 years old. She's been to Ireland four times. Italy, three times. London and Paris twice.

She sews, knits and crochets. She paints on paper, fabric and clay surfaces. She makes art pottery and ceramic dishes. She produces woodcut prints. She designs handbags, sweaters and clothes. She enters art competitions. And buys and sell antiques and collectibles. And that's the short list.

Today is her birthday. Call and wish her well. But remember, she sleeps in until at least 9:00 a.m.

Happy Birthday, Mother!!