Ann’s photo on the invitation was from her wedding day 69 years ago.
This week I had the honor of attending a party for the 91st birthday of Ann, a very special lady who always reminds me of what’s really important in life.
Ann is from New York, the daughter of Italian immigrants. Ann is short for Antoinette because she had a French grandmother. She still lives in the same house she and her husband bought decades ago. Sadly this year, after 69 years of marriage, she lost her husband Tony. My parents were married 62 years, I can only imagine what an incredible adjustment that must be.
Mary Ann, me and Ann, the birthday girl
Ann’s daughter, my friend Mary Ann, hosted the birthday party this week and invited several friends in Atlanta who’ve gotten to know Ann over the years. As she visits Atlanta frequently from New York, we get to see Ann often and it doesn’t take us long to catch up.
We were specifically instructed NOT to bring any birthday gifts to the party. But then as we arrived, the ladies were all surprised with a gift from Ann to each of us, which again clues you in as to how special she is.
Ann’s gift to me was a lovely bracelet, adorned with a charm that says “Good friends, Great memories.”
This photo is of Ann with me and my daughter J. Morgan a few years ago. She has always taken a special interest in Morgan and her art, and every time I see Ann she never fails to ask me for an update on Morgan and her life.
I’ve always enjoyed being around people who are up front and “tell it like it is.” I can always count on Ann to do just that because she is spunky, spirited and funny. She speaks her mind and doesn’t hold back. Her honesty inspires me. She impresses the hell out of me with her willingness to get on an airplane any time and GO. She wasted no time getting out on the dance floor during her party and showing us that she still has some moves. When I complimented her on the dancing, she leaned over and told me “Yes, I can still shake my booty.”
Ann on the dance floor with Larry, her favorite dance partner in Atlanta.
Those of you who still have your parents are so, so lucky. If they’re still shaking their booties, you’re even luckier. So here’s to Ann, Happy 91st Birthday! I’m honored to know you and count you as a friend. And here’s to still traveling at 91!
It was a lovely party and a perfect occasion to visit with a very special lady! Ann has seen so much in her life and remains strong, resilient, and fun-loving. She is amazing! Love her!
What a delightful story about your friend, Ann, and the celebration of her long and fruitful life (so far). I am one of the lucky ones whose parents are still alive and well. We will celebrate my father’s 101st birthday on Tuesday. I wish I could introduce my parents to Ann. They would have a lot to talk about! ; )
WOW! How fantastic to have a father who’s about to turn 101 and is still in good health. You are definitely one of the lucky ones! Wish him a happy birthday from all the readers at Chez Suzette!
We are all so lucky to have such wonderful people still in our lives. Hug and cherish them as long as you can
Beautiful story told in a beautiful way. Thanks, Suzette, for sharing.
You are so right! Thanks!
What a great story and pictures; I loved being a part of such a sweet, cozy, lovely party for Ann. What a sharp, and very dear woman I have known over the years.
I was very close to my adorable mom, Rosmond, and will carry wonderful memories of her forever.
I wish I could have met your Mom…I would love to hear stories about you!
Thanks for posting this lovely story. I am still very fortunate to have my 90 year old mother, Ann – although she is moving very slow these days. It’s great to hear that your friend can still travel travel and get on the dance floor and shake her booty. Such an inspiration!
We all have to keep that old saying “move it or lose it” top of mind, don’t we? Because I still want to be shaking my booty when I’m 90! Enjoy your Mom.