You're Not Old - You're New!

The kitchen table has always been the heart of the Masciandaro household, and it is where some of my fondest memories with Dad began. Aside from sharing delicious meals, dinner always became an opportunity to share, learn, and connect. For as long as I can remember, I would pick my Dad's brain after dinner about all the mysteries of the universe. I remember thinking he must be the smartest man in the world - I had no idea how he knew so much about everything.

He would quiz me on his previous teachings, having me recite state capitals or historical facts. To this day, I still think he should have gone on Jeopardy! It was here Dad taught me how to play Scopa, chess, and fold the best paper airplanes.

One day when I was young enough to still sit inside the grocery cart, Dad and I went grocery shopping to gather ingredients for that evening's dinner. A woman approached us and commented on how cute his "granddaughter" was (much to my dismay!). I was very upset that she, in my humble opinion, had called him old, as I was his daughter! After she left, I looked up at him and said "Dad, you're not old - you're new!"

Almost 30 years later, and I still believe that sentiment holds true. You're still sharp as a tack and a wealth of knowledge.

Happy 80th Birthday Dad, you will always be new to me!