My wife had been talking about chucking our non stick pans for months now. She read about toxins they release when overheated and this prompted her to switch them out for ceramic ones. She was pretty adamant about it and we could get a set at Costco at a very reasonable price. Sure, let’s do it.
To be honest, I was fine with the old ones. I grew up with non stick so they’re all I know and don’t really care one way or another. This never would have entered my radar. Ever. It occurred to me that this may be one of many ways that she is probably prolonging my life. At my age, every little bit counts.
I’m fiercely independent, but over the years have come to realize that I can let go of my stubbornness and embrace her influence. I thought of a few other ways she’s helped extend my years. Here is an abbreviated list:
- Annual physicals (now it’s like clockwork)
- Eliminating nitrates from my diet (I do miss hot dogs, though. It’s a great excuse to go to a MLB baseball game to get my fix)
- Organic fruits and vegetables (I’m still trying to get used to the premium price tag)
- Walking after dinner (something as simple as walking does wonders)
- Reduction in alcohol consumption. (Drinking is no longer my go to stress reliever)
- Limiting fried foods, fast food, etc (so sad, but worth it)
- Flossing (this is a miracle)
- Making more time for friends and family (work should not be my life)
- Making time for vacations and time off (all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy)
- Laughter (priceless)
- A partner to share life’s joys and burdens (the most important lesson I’ve learned – it’s ok to lean on others)
Left to my own devices, I’d be living life without any guardrails. I’m not saying I’d have one foot in the grave, but she’s definitely tacked on a few years for me. I’m no longer that invincible twenty year old and I’m now at an age that ponders longevity. I have to remember to thank her more often. She really is wonderful.
I’m always amazed at the longevity of bands/artists that rekindled a second run of touring. I did a search of the oldest New Wave singers still performing today. I was surprised at the list:
- Nick Lowe (77)
- Howard Jones (71)
- Adam Ant (71)
- Billy Idol (70)
Talk about long careers. Damn. I watched a bunch of 2025 live performances of Adam Ant and Billy Idol. Not the greatest, but you’ve got to give them credit. Performing in your 70’s is pretty impressive, even if it is a little bit messy.
After narrowing it down between the two, I chose an Adam Ant song. Although I love Adam and the Ants’ first album Kings of the Wild Frontier, I decided on an acoustic version of Wonderful. This is a more mainstream song when he went solo. I looked for a 71 year old version, but couldn’t find one. And maybe that’s a good thing. I’m sure it just wouldn’t sound the same.
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Did I tell you how much I miss
Your sweet kiss?
Did I tell you I didn't cry?
Well I lied
I lie lie lied
Over real over
When I nearly hit the face I loved
So tired of packaging the anger
Always pushing you away
Did I tell you you're wonderful?
I miss you yes I do
Did I tell you that I was wrong?
I was wrong
Cos you're wonderful yeah
Did I tell you how much I miss
Your smile?
Did I tell you I was okay?
Well no way
No way way way
You're wonderful yeah yeah
Now now now each and every day
I realize the price I have to pay
You you're wonderful
And now for your information
I'm walking around like an arm decoration
You you're wonderful
So high I can't get over it
So deep I can't get under it
You
You're wonderful yeah
You're wonderful yeah yeah
You're wonderful yeah yeah
You're wonderful yeah yeah
Wonderful
Did I tell you you're wonderful?
I miss you yes I do
Did I tell you that I was wrong?
I was wrong
For so long long long
MyGenXerLife 
Yeah, we let go of the nonstick, too. And, from Costco!
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