Francine Facts #4-3-2-1 – She’d Be 102 Today!
If you’re new here, welcome, and if not, welcome back.
This month at Just TypiKel we’ve been doing a 10 day Francine Fact challenge to honor my late mother’s impending 102nd birthday. What’s the challenge all about? Sharing some of the unique Francine tidbits that made her special. She’d expect nothing less.
You’ll likely be relieved to know today is the last. Yes, it’s Francine Facts #4-3-2-1 – She’d be 102 today!
She celebrated number 101 in style.
All Of Her Birthdays Were Special, However One In Particular Stands Out.
Her 73rd.
“Kel, we’ve got to call your folks!”
“It’s pretty early, don’t you think?” I yawned.
“Nope, they’re probably getting ready to walk the dog on the beach. I’ll call now before they’re out the door.”
I sighed and lay back onto the thin hospital pillow. There was no stopping my husband John when he was in this mood. It was futile.
He grabbed the bedside phone and dialed, his face radiating childlike anticipation. He looked six.
“Hi Francine! Happy Birthday! We’ve got a very special gift for you this year.”
I glanced up at the clock. 05;45. Poor Mom. The sun wouldn’t even be up yet.
“It’s a new grandson!”
“Lucky Number Seven! Oh, John, I’m thrilled! Congratulations! How’s Kel?”
John looked over at me and winked.
“Right as rain.”
“Give her my love. And thank you! What a very special gift.”
September 26 – A Very Special Day
Fast forward to 2020. The birthday duo celebrates outside, Covid style.
Our dear
Of course, Francine won’t be celebrating today alongside her birthday twin. She passed away on June 14. However, I believe more than a little bit of her lives on in him. He shares her spirit of adventure, her enthusiasm for new people and her joy of learning.
Happy Birthday H! I’m picturing Gaga chair scraping back her chair and hauling herself up for yet another toast.
Happy Birthday Francine! It was an honor to be your daughter. You were one in a million.
So That’s It. Francine Facts Done and Dusted.
Thank you for hanging in with me right to the final Francine Facts #4-3-2-1 – She’d Be 102 Today! And yes, the contest to win a copy of Never, Never, Hardly Ever is still open. The Contestant Queen is urging you on. There’s still a chance for you! Just leave a comment and you’re name is entered.
I’ll announce the grand prize winner within the week.
In the meantime, hug your loved ones, seek out adventure and share the wealth.
12 Responses
Thanks! I hope you’ve started compiling things for next year’s salute to your Mom. I can’t wait to read them.
Thank you, Kathy. I appreciate your support so very much.
I love learning more about Francine and celebrating her awesomeness!
You’re doing a fine job keeping her alive, Kelly. We love Francine!
Just the nicest thing to say. Thanks, Katy. Truly.
I really feel like I’ve gotten to know her better!
Happy Birthday to your son.
Thanks so very much, Julie. I’ll pass your good wishes on!
What a lovely way to honour your Mom…and Happy Birthday wishes to H!
Your stories have added to my story and memory of wonderful Frankie.
I’m honoured to have one of her brilliant paintings.
‘The Gentians’ make me think of her (and my own Mum) and I smile every time.
Thank you, Kelly
Aw, I’m so glad you continue to enjoy ‘The Gentians.’ I remember how happy she was that it went to you. And thank you for your good wishes. I’ll pass them on to H!
This was just the best Kelly ! What a wonderful tribute to your amazing Mum, who I am so sure was ever so proud of you.
Thank you for sharing these special memories with us ❤️
Thank you, Jane. Yet again.
Hi! I looked up something random on google and this came up, I enjoyed reading about your Frankie! I too have a Frankie which is how I ended up here 🙂
Hi Georgia. What a fun way to find me. Thank you so very much for reading and for leaving a comment. How wonderful you have a Frankie, too! If you’d like to read more about mine, consider subscribing. Check out Never, Never, Hardly Ever – on Amazon, too. It’s a whole book about me working with my Frankie.