Club Thrifty

The other night, I got to spend some time with a friend and co-worker of mine.  We went on a work related outing to a local winery to take a tour.  We sampled wine, ate a delicious dinner, and had some time to catch up.  You see, “Fred” is a friend of my parents and also works part time at the mortuary where we work.  He drives the limo for us, works visitations, and helps customers.  He is a quick witted practical joker who becomes friends with everyone he meets.  Not only is Fred in great shape, but he works nonstop when he is on the clock.  Fred is always the last one working and never stops until the job is done.  He is always first to ask if anyone needs help.  Doesn’t Fred sound seriously awesome?  Trust me, he is!  By the way, Fred is 90 years old.

90 is the new 70

Yes, you read that right.  My friend and co-worker is 90 years old…and is still working 10-20 hours per week.  He doesn’t need the money, but he likes to keep busy and enjoys interacting with people.  He loves seeing his friends and co-workers, and he also volunteers for a few different local organizations.  I often wonder if Fred is afraid to stop moving and intentionally keeps himself busy.  At 90 years old, one has to begin wondering when the gift of good health will end.  But, for now, Fred keeps trucking…..and he’s doing more than breathing and blinking.  Fred is truly living!

Fred spent many years taking care of his sick wife until she finally passed away a few years ago.  Since then, he has been out doing all of the things that he has always wanted to do.  For his 90th birthday, he even took a two-week long trip to Alaska.  His face lights up when he talks about all of the untouched wilderness that he saw, the animals that he encountered, and the endless expanse of beauty that is Alaska.  Since Fred is 90 and able to afford to travel as well as his expenses, it got me wondering… [Read more...]