… to stop getting “old fart” cards on your birthday?

(Posted by Ron)

Ron Lambert - Fact or Crap?

THE birthday card!

It started on my 40th birthday but instead of a card a black funeral wreath was delivered to my office.  It seems like I’ve gotten some sort of condolence wish each year since, except for my 50th.  After Gayle learned that I never had a birthday party as a child (that I remember), she made my 50th very special.  She arranged a very special party at a friend’s home.  Everyone came in costume – dressed like me.  They were wearing nightshirts (another story), had on glasses, mustaches, and had even padded their tummies.  We ate grilled cheese sandwiches and hot dogs, two of my favorite foods.  I don’t remember receiving any “old” anything cards then, but I’ll bet I did.

As the years have passed I’ve continued to get cards that “celebrate” my longevity.  99 and 9/10ths of them are funny and loving.  One of my sons-in-law and I have a running joke with old fart cards.  I enjoy our competition.

So another year has passed and, sure enough, I got another of those cards Saturday night.  A picture of it is on this post.  It came from two of my dearest friends.  Everyone at the table enjoyed it.  So what were my feelings about this particular card?

• It was funny and I genuinely liked it.
• I was aware of the love with which it was given.
• I received it in a restaurant, surrounded by people who love me and who, I might add, are all younger than me by quite a few years.
• I don’t think they really pay attention to my age except when buying birthday cards.

So, I ask again, when do I get old enough to stop getting “old fart” cards on my birthday?  Not soon, I hope.  Each year I receive them means I have been privileged to be alive and surrounded by family and friends whom I know love me.  I get them from friends.  I get them from my kids.  I even have a running competition with one of my sons-in-law for the worst old fart card each year.   I get them from lots of people who love me.  I get them because I am still here and I expect there to be many more “old fart” card opportunities.  In fact, on my 100th birthday I’ll buy one for myself.

I have to say this, though.  It eases the sting just a little to know that Gayle is now getting them, too.  We may have an age-gap, but some things transcend the gap.

Us