That’s a line from a Tom T. Hall song

‘Watermelon Wine”

but it is also one I use when I am asked my age. I was taught as a youngster that is was impolite to ask someone how old they were so I am usually surprised when confronted with the question! I usually answer with something like the heading of this post or “what would you guess?”

People are usually polite and guess a much lower number than they actually think.

When I tell them that I am hoping to be 90 in October they want to know the secret to my longevity. And I have to tell them it is most likely my Swedish roots. My Mom passed away (93) and my sister Georgie (96) and were quite healthy until the last couple of years of their lives.

I’d like to tell you that exercise, good food, and a positive attitude are key, but I’m not perfect. I don’t follow those keys all the time.
I do believe a good night’s sleep and a great bed are important, as well as eating three meals a day. Breakfast energizes your brain, so eat as soon as you get up. Protein is important for muscle tone, regardless of the source. Many people suffer from daily aches and pains; over-the-counter painkillers can help. Exercise is vital for health, but choose activities you can handle. Some exercises can hurt your feet, which are crucial for balance. You can find plenty of exercises online; just search. Find the exercises that fits your lifestyle.

As most of you know I have moved into a smaller apartment condo. The people here are very friendly and have an active social group that is involved in many activities in the Westview room on the top floor. There Cards, scrabble, etc are available to participate in most evenings of the week.

We have a large courtyard with a BBQ off another social room and just last week hamburgers and hotdogs were served with lots of good food prepared by each of us in attendance.

Yesterday we had a meet/greet for new residents in the courtyard from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Lots of laughs and one lady mentioned having just purchased a whole watermelon.
And would you believe another lady then gave us a 15 minute course on buying, carving, and not only making wine but soup with watermelons.

Was this a coincidence? I write about watermelon wine and now I’m educated in all things watermelon!

You can learn all about watermelons online.

On a hot day have a slice of fresh, ripe watermelon. Yummy.
ttyl