Today my Granma turned 85 years old. I got to FaceTime with her and have a little chat, half the world away. I just kept thinking—what a remarkable window of human history she’s witnessed, and what an incredible life she’s lived (and she ain’t done yet!).

My Granma has lived all over the world, including Taiwan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Peru, and across the US. She’s met Barack Obama 3 separate times. My Granma has chased down one of her sons in the middle of the night on the streets of Cairo, and she’s been on a “normal” commercial flight with a baby elephant. She first watched Star Wars when it came out in 1977 at a drive thru movie theater, and they played the 2nd reel before the 1st. My Granma experienced the invention of TV, the microwave, computers, and the internet. She’s voted in every single election since she was of age. My Granma beat cancer before she even told any of our family about it.

As you can imagine, her stories are amazing.

The eldest of 9 children, my Granma is a pillar of strength, regardless of whatever she may tell you. She also raised 4 sons, often on her own when my Granpa was away working.

I’ve learned so much from you Granma. You’ve taught me how to think long-term and how to think simply. You’ve reinforced the importance of family, all those times you came out to visit even though we lived far apart. I still remember when you watched my sister and me when I was 10 and my parents were on vacation, and you made me wacky cake the first time. My entire life, you’ve never missed an important event. And through your incredible stories, you’ve shown me how exciting life is, how much of an adventure one can have regardless of birth or status, and how truly wonderful we can make this journey.

I will never be able to repay you, but I will pass it on. I love you, go win at Bridge, and happy birthday.