The Never-ending Song

Halloween--a special event night this year with a full moon and an extra hour.  Sadly there probably won't be many trick-or-treaters out to enjoy the moon slipping through the black clouds, the dry leaves skating along the sidewalk, the eerie sounds of a loose shutter somewhere banging against the wall of an empty house.  Covid is here--the eeriest fear of all this year.  My jack-o-lantern will grin his candle-lit smile through my front window.  My cat will sit behind it on her window seat, tail lashing, jaws chattering, as she watches those tantalizing crisp, dry leaves flash by.    But I do not expect any giggling little ghosts to appear at the door, alarming my watchful dog. I have some fruit bars just in case.  I did not buy any candy this year.  Afraid no kids would come to the door and then I would have to eat it all myself! I had a wonderful birthday yesterday.  My older daughter came and made my favorite meal of sea scallops, mac & cheese & broccoli. And my favorite

Today is my birthday.  The grand old age of 86.  I don't feel 86, or even 68.  When I went to wash my face this morning I looked in the mirror-something I seldom do.  In fact it is a standing joke with my friends when I tell them "let me know if my hair is a mess".  But this morning I thought I would sneak a peek.  Hmm- does that face looking back at me really look like it is 86 years old?  I do see  traces of the pretty girl I once was so very many years ago.  I have out-lived three husbands.  Don't suppose that is anything to brag about.  And NO, I had nothing to do with any of their demises. What do I have to show for my 86 years?  Four terrific kids, grown to wonderful, responsible, caring adults.  Four grown grandchildren- one missing from the family right now, but loved as much anyway.  And two handsome great grandsons.   I have one published book to my credit, small, but a token to leave behind to the children. As I lay in bed last night I recalled how very muc