Happy Jack Birthday

You know you're getting old when your "baby" hits 25. Today the youngest of three, the second to marry, and the first to parent a child, celebrates his birthday with his bride. To mark this important day, two of my college classes were treated to pizza --- cheese, pepperoni and sausage -- and every piece disappeared. Jack could probably even hear us sing "Happy Birthday dear Ja---ck....."

Happy birthday on this the 25th of many more to come. Next year at this time you will be the father of a daughter, and you will experience life from the other side. Your hair will begin to discolor. Joints may ache. Eyes may need lenses. Welcome to my world. You are a wonderful son to two, a good brother or brother-in-law to four, a great friend to many and a good husband. Celebrate the day. "Happy birthday to you."

Happy Birthday Mark Cuban

Age has a way of sneaking up on us while asleep, driving, and apparently even Dancing With the Stars. As a member of the unofficial Mark Cuban Fan Club, it's hard to believe he turns 50 this year, but on The Today Show with Matt Lauer, who also hits 50 later in December, Mark was up front and personal. "Fifty is the new thirty," he reported. One is as old or as young as one feels. Staying active and alert keeps one young, as do children, pets, smiling alot, high incomes, and staying as busy as possible. Part of Mark's rehab for his hip replacement was Dancing.

So Mark, welcome to somewhatfortyplus. Now you get it. You're managing to hold it all together quite well. Congratulations and happy birthday.

Photo attribution: somewhatfrank