It started with checking with May’s caregivers Michelle, a Filipina, as to May’s birthday. I just knew it was near Valentine’s. So, I bought my bananas so they would be at their peak of flavors when I make my 3 tsokolates and 3 platanos cake. I made two hearts, so our neighbors can share one and the family can have one.
Larry, my dear 89 yo neighbor brought his finest champagne and 6 glasses.
We expected a small turnout, but 9 neighbors showed up. Wow, I cannot believe it. I emailed folks not knowing who would show up and Karen Mack was the first to respond, then, her husband; the Hoyts, Moore, Moline, and the Delacruz.
The flower arrangement made by Elaine Quadra was simply exquisite and it really raised the elegance of the table to match the elegance of May, so graceful and so gracious. She whispered to me, “I can’t do much, but I think of you daily.”
I whispered back, ” May, it is why I have a shower of blessings daily.”
What a beautiful morning of interacting with my neighbors. We kept it short, we distanced and for brief moments, took our masks off to have our photos. At 99yo, her words are full of love.
I love that my hubby went to get her a box of her favorite See’s candies and also got boxes for me, my daughter, and granddaughter.
Minutes before we were all about to leave, her daughter Elaine and her family came.
But, really her loving caregiver, Loida, dressed her up to be at her finest. Happy 99th birthday May Maybaba Bendit, a year short of a century and we just love you!!
