The title is not a reference to a popular north-south expressway but a declaration that I have been around for three-quarters of a century. The first quarter was filled with school, drumming, marriage, working, kids, and enjoying life. The second quarter was filled with working, divorce, marriage, divorce, kids, and enjoying life. The third quarter has been filled with working, retirement, traveling, writing, and enjoying life. I’m not sure what — beyond enjoying life — the fourth quarter will bring but I’m looking forward to it.

I’ve always wanted to have hair like Peter Frampton, and now I do. Many years ago, I told myself (and a few others) that when my hair loss reached a certain point, what remained would go too. Although I never really specified what that point was, I’m pretty sure I’ve gone beyond what I had in mind at the time. Once I acknowledged that, I had only to pick an occasion and have at it. Birthday #75 seems as appropriate an occasion as any.

Including this picture in this post also seemed appropriate. I’ve used it before — originally for a retirement anniversary then later for a birthday — but it’s not worn out. At least no more worn out than the old guy on the bench and it pretty much sums up what I think of on my birthday. I usually celebrate, after a fashion, by treating myself extra nice but I do find birthdays are good occasions for remembering all the folks I’ve known who have been denied the privilege of growing older.