Nov 10, 2006

Spry at 89?!


I met the most spry 89 year old woman today. A coworker invited 3 of us to a chili fundraiser put on by the assisted living facility where her mother lives. Mostly, it’s family members of the residents who go. Today, we were her extended family. Helen was all smiles, happy to meet us, and have lunch with us. She’s a tiny little thing, only about 4 ft. tall, if that. I’ve listened to my coworker talk about her mom ever since they moved her from rural South Dakota a year or so ago. I’d never have guessed she was 89 by the amount of energy and the sense of humor she has. When we left, she gave us all hugs and patted us on the cheek. LOL, it’s something I’ve only seen on TV. You could tell it meant a lot to her that she had people come to her luncheon. After we got back to the office, my coworker thanked us for coming… and I could tell it meant a lot to her also, that we went. Giving of yourself when you don’t have to...

7 comments:

stitcherw said...

I'll bet it did mean a lot to both of them. So many older people get forgotten at living facilities and hardly ever get visitors. The fact that she had several guests come and spend time with her probably was very special. It does feel good to do something for someone that clearly makes them happy when you don't have to.
Sue

CindyMae said...

It was great of you and your co-workers to go to the luncheon! I am sure her mom will remember it for a long time to come. It means a lot when we giver ourselves when we do not have to!

Anonymous said...

I think giving of yourself when you don't have to should be done more often in this world. Good for you! You probably all made Helen's entire week!

CJ in OK ;-) said...

Meari your the best, I like to think that there will be someone like you around when I am that age. Happy Stitching, CJ

Anonymous said...

How awesome! I love people like that young or old!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a wonderful day. I hope I'm that active when I'm 89.

Valda said...

That was so wonderful of you and your coworkers to go to that luncheon. I know her mother will remember it for the rest of her life. It was such a simple thing to do that will mean the most to her.