be on the right side of the grass

To still be living (as opposed to dead and buried beneath the grass). Often said to indicate that one's life is relatively tolerable or positive, despite difficulties. No, I didn't have the best day, but at least I was on the right side of the grass when I woke up, right? A: "Hi, Grandma! How are you?" B: "Oh, I'm all right, darling—the usual aches and pains, you know how it is. I'm on the right side of the grass, though, so I can't complain too much!" Come on, don't be such a grump! Any day we're on the right side of the grass is a good day!