I was hired by one of Fran’s 21 grandchildren to photograph her birthday party. Upon arriving, I hadn’t met the lady of honor. When I did, I was floored. I couldn’t believe the woman in front of me was 90! She looks amazing and she is sharp as a tack. She told me “Don’t ever let anyone tell you that children make you old.  I had seven children and they are what kept me young.”  Well, I have one child, and looking back at photos from 4 years ago, I have definitely aged. I don’t know what her secret is, but I can only pray to be where she is at her age.

She is truly an amazing person and it showed.  It was the biggest birthday party I have ever been to.  Over 200 people there to celebrate her.  Her seven children, 21 grand children, 21 great-grand children, countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  The food was all made by her family, she was serenaded by her grand daughter, acknowledged by her town to be the oldest person to reside there and was given that acknowledgment by her grandson who is the youngest Mayor in the history of the town and the venue had old photos strung throughout the barn.  It really couldn’t have been more personal. I left there feeling like I was part of the family.  Everyone was so nice and welcoming.

It truly is a wonderful life.