The best way to grow old

When Genie and I bought a cabin at Beaver Lake by Ellendale, Minnesota, we didn't know any of the neighbors.

As we drove down the road to our cabin, we noticed one cabin in particular. We could tell when the occupants were there because of all the things outside by their cabin. (Typical lake things- shoes, towels, swimsuits, sleeping tents, inner tubes, life jackets, etc.) We decided both parents must work judging the size of the family and all the lake related things. We later found out we were right. The dad, Hugh Hall, was in the Albert Lea school system plus a radio announcer at KATE Radio in Albert Lea. The mom, Pauline Hall, besides being the driver of her own taxi cab, found time for herself being involved in many not-for-pay activities, plus secretary for pay activities at Queens Products and Naeve (Mayo) Hospital in Albert Lea.

The years passed and the Hall family sold their cabin on Beaver Lake and lived in Albert Lea.

More years passed, the Hall kids became adults out in the world doing many good deeds.

More years passed, Hugh passed away and Hugh took residence in the room promised him.

Genie and I attended the celebration of life service for Pauline at Salem Lutheran Church in Albert Lea on Friday, January 31, 2025.

When Pauline met Hugh at a church youth activity in St. Paul, MN. High played a waltz on the Church’s music system. They danced one time around the Youth hall when Hugh turned to her and said, “Wow, we dance well together. Will you marry me?”

Do you suppose as Pauline accepted the room promised her; Hugh was there to dance a waltz with her?

Something to think about: the best way to grow old is to enjoy life's opportunities as they present themselves. (Hugh and Pauline were classic examples.)

— — —

Bob is a retired AAL (Aid Association for Lutherans) agent, currently working on his master’s degree in Volunteering. His wife, Genie, is a retired RN, currently working on her doctor’s degree in Volunteering. They have two children, Deb in North Carolina, and Dan in New York. Bob says if you enjoy his column, let him know. If you don’t enjoy it, keep on reading, it can get worse. Words of wisdom: There is always room for God.