My 52 To Do Week 4A

Saturday April 12

Rouffach, France

IT’S BIRTHDAY TIME

I love birthday parties.  It doesn’t even have to be my birthday. (It especially doesn’t have to be your birthday since you haven’t had a birthday, according to you, in almost 20 years.)  I love the anticipation in advance of the party.  I love hosting parties and all the preparation.  I enjoy seeing the delight on the birthday person’s face as they are surrounded by people they love.  Today is a VERY special birthday. Cecile Weinzapflen turns 105.  You read that correctly, one hundred and five! (The story of her life is amazing. Living through one of the worst times in history in a place that saw more than its share of death and   destruction, you could expect her to be a very bitter lady. But not Cecile, she is the epitome of love and kindness. Just being around her makes one a better person).

The celebration began with lunch and continued with cake and crémant (Alsacienne champagne).( Is anyone else catching this theme of Kerrie and wine?)   A representative from the Mayor’s office stopped by to wish Cecile a happy birthday (She has been after the Mayor to replace the cobblestone street between her home and her favorite restaurant. Apparently the ride in her wheelchair is a bit bumpy.)  She was surrounded by her daughter, granddaughter, great grandsons, other family members and friends. 

Her smile was contagious as she enjoyed the delicious cake and the visits from so many who love her.  It was a very special day, and Paul and I feel very honored to be included in the celebration.

At 105, Cecile spends every day with a smile on her face, especially when eating chocolate.  We have been able to spend time talking about her trip to visit the United States and our previous visits to her.  She is a delight!

New To Do this week:

• Attend a 105^th birthday party,