Eighth Decade Beginning Inventory —by Jinny Batterson
Eyes: sometimes rheumy, not quite as sharp or quick to focus any more; still capable of seeing beauty around me.
Teeth: ditto about sharpness, not as firmly rooted as before; still capable of chewing the fat.
Ears: prone to sunburn, hearing less acute; especially deaf to husband’s complaints or criticisms.
Nose: runnier, more often stuffy; still inquisitive.
Gait: slower, plodding, even, on uphills; still fond of exploring.
Lungs: clear and easy most of the time; more sensitive to smoke, pollen, other stressors than before.
Heart: ditto.
Sleep: easy to start, occasionally wakeful and restless toward morning, more memory of dreams; seems more natural to take naps.
Soul: more aware of happy times, more grateful; still needs work toward being inclusive.
World: still full of controversy and conflict, still a little dangerous, sometimes tragic; still also full of adventures and joys waiting to happen.
What a clever little piece! Happy Umpteenth Birthday!