Look who’s 101!
Yes, look who’s 101!
Nineteen of us gathered for a celebratory lunch in the party room at her care home, three days before the big day. It was an eclectic group, with the age range stretching from three all the way to 101.
Of course, Francine rose to the occasion.
A highlight was everyone sharing a unique “Francine Tidbit.” My particular fave concerned her jade bracelets. She’s worn the pair 24/7 ever since acquiring them on a buying trip in China in the 80’s. Yes, ALL the time. As they’re worn on the same wrist, they tend to slam into each other. Yes, ALL the time. The sound is … somewhat reminiscent of several china teacups colliding or a tray of cutlery being dropped from a great height. No, I’m wrong. It’s neither. However, once you hear the sound, you’ll never forget it. It’s unique to Francine.
So, my niece’s “Francine Tidbit” is her memory of being at school and suddenly hearing the iconic “jingy-jingy.” Francine was in the building. Why? Was there an emergency? She scooted from the classroom, honing in on the sound.
She found her quickly, just two corridors over.
“You left your calculator at our house, love. I thought you might need it so I brought it. However did you find me?”
It wasn’t difficult.
And Why Stop At One Party?
Naturally, when you turn 101 you can have as many parties as you wish.
Mom’s care home provides a variety of musical entertainment. She’s developed a strong friendship with Frank, the talented guitar player. Could he play on her actual birthday? Of course.
It was a jolly hour, full of love, laughter and joyous tunes.
Cheers, Mom. We love you.
26 Responses
Love how Francine rose to the occasion with her crown, 19 plus guests and beloved Frank on his guitar.
Yes, she certainly rose to the occasion … over and over. “Oh,she’s up again …” Thanks for reading and leaving a comment, Wend.
This is so wonderful Kelly.
Happy Birthday to your Mom.
❤️???❤️
Aw,thanks Suzanne. I’ll pass your kind words on to Mom.
Happy Birthday Francine. You are a Legend
Happy Birthday to a beautiful Lady in Red!
Ha! She’ll love that.
Aw, thanks, Rainbow. She’s quite something, ‘eh? Thanks for reading and leaving a comment.I’ll pass your kind words on to Francine!
She is absolutely gorgeous! Lady in Red is right. And what a terrific celebration! Congratulations to Francine (and to you). This just made my night.
Aw, thanks. And you just made my day. Truly.
Thanks for continuing to share your wonderful stories about your wonderful mom with us, Kelly! It sounds like a perfect celebration. Happy birthday to your mom.
Thanks so very much, Donna. She’s quite the gal, no? I love how she continues to provide me with material.
What a gal and those bracelets are legendary ñ. Love how you e captured it here!
Aw, thanks so very much, Chels. And yes, those bracelets are legendary. She certainly rose to the occasion, didn’t she? Over and over and over … Btw – everyone adores the sweater. You’ve certainly got a gift.
Oh, I love this so much ! The amazing Francince looks fabulous, especially with her crown on !! So happy she was well celebrated ! Please send her my best wishes ! ?
Yes, the crown! A gift from Wendy. She wore it well, no? I’ll definitely pass your good wishes on to her. Thanks, Jane. See ya soon.
Great post Kelly looks like fun! What a gal!
Thanks, Lynn. You were missed. Love how you’ve got almost a week left. Enjoy!
She’s beaming in the photos! What a gal and what a celebration. Thanks for sharing, Kelly.
Thanks so very much, Katy. She’s quite the gal. I love how she keeps providing me with material.
What a lovely set of events!
It truly was a lovely set of events. Thanks so much for reading and leaving a comment, Kathy.
I’m just getting to this now Kelly and so enjoyed the tale of the bracelets. I too wear 4 gold bracelets 24/7 and while they don’t make the clickety clack of the lovely Francine’s they are a quiet signature. Amazing that they have not broken as she has worn them from the 80s. It’s all in the wrist. Somehow I think Francine knows this. Here’s to 102!
And I’m just getting to this now. Wow. I am so sorry for the delayed response. Love that you wear 4 gold bracelets 24/7. Francine would be most impressed. She actually did break one of the bracelets – well, a child did. A friend’s daughter dropped it. Oops. Nevermind. Francine had a gold sleeve put on it and it’s good as new. Long may yours survive.
Dear Kelly
I was thrilled to come across this post and to learn that Francine has recently celebrated her 101 years young birthday! I was a frequent visitor in the shop on south Granville in the mid 80s and still have those beautiful pieces …that decorated my first apartment! Each time i encounter these my favourite finds…. I am reminded of the experience of meeting your mom and you and your genuine even when on most occasions i was not purchasing but admiring and enjoying your company. Please pass on my best belated birthday wishes to Francine along with my gratitude and admiration …..part of my growing up really! Sincerely Julie
Julie! Hi! I am so very sorry for this delayed response. I remember you. I shall certainly pass on your kind wishes to Francine – she’ll be tickled pink to think someone from the FROG days has reached out. She’s doing remarkably well for 101. The short-term memory isn’t what it was but she’s such a positive soul that she’s still curious about life. I’ve actually written a book about our days at FROG. It’ll be published soon! I’ll reach out to you via your email with more info.