Mama’s. The view from here.

It was a treat–lunch at this lovely restaurant on a lovely Hawaiian island on the most lovely vacation of my life. The view was exquisite, the food truly divine. But what most captivated me was the trio at the table just to our right. Seated there were a well dressed 40s-ish couple with one of their widowed mothers (I suppose), an elderly woman who happened to be wearing an animal print blouse and a purple lei. She ordered an island cocktail, one topped by a fun, fabulous yellow umbrella.

It occurs to me now this description makes her sound gregarious. But she wasn’t, not in the least. Her demeanor was rather reserved, to tell you the truth, contributing only occasionally to their conversation and leaning in toward the table when she chose to do so.

Still there she was wearing leopard with a plastic lei she’d surely pulled from a suitcase that morning.

I so get her, is what I said to my husband.

What do you mean? he asked.

Inside that 80-year-old body is a 22-year-old girl on vacation in Hawaii, I said.

He laughed.

I want to live life the way she does, I said. I want to embrace it.

It’s the thought that carried me through this remarkable, surprising, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Can’t wait to tell you more.

XXOO,

Cathy

Want more Daily Grace? Leave your email and I’ll send you an email each time there’s a new post!

[wysija_form id=”1″]