Day 611

Lilly and I NEVER tire of being near our Harmonica Man! After visiting this morning, Mac and I returned (without a Golden) for an afternoon Birthday Concert for the residents at Walker. The original plan was a barbershop quartet, but there was a medical issue with one of the singers. After some communication, one of the quartet performers sent his son instead. The quartet had heard about our centurion and wanted to honor him by singing with his harmonica accompaniment. Instead of canceling, they sent one of their "boys" so that the seniors (and Don) would not be disappointed. Humans can be so very kind!

This entertainer was fantastic! He played keyboard, accordion and sang along with the crowd. Don, of course, was beyond pleased to play his harmonica. It was such a celebration and everyone enjoyed their cake and coffee! Balloons were tied onto wheel chairs or walkers to identify the birthday "kids." When we entered, many asked where Lilly was, but then realized she would have been drooling over the goodies. Interacting with so many of them, my heart melted as I realized how dear they have become to me.

Kay just turned 103 and was "dressed to the nines!" She wasn't the only one who had reached 100. There were quite a few Lilly Fans who were, at least, well into their 90's! Today, they felt happy and connected to life.

What struck me, as we watched the concert and audience, was the obvious delight of those present. They knew EVERY word of EVERY song from the 40's, 50's and beyond. (Surprisingly...so did I!) Some of these folks were from Memory Care and they still knew the lyrics! It was a true delight and a privilege to watch their joy and be one of the faces they know, trust and care about.

When we made our exit, many beautiful, aged hands reached out to touch and connect. Most wanted to know when Lilly would be back, so I know she is the true star! Even so, what a wonderful gift these people are in my life. It is ever-so-humbling to know they feel we are a bright spot in their day.

Now, if I could just delete all of those lyrics taking up space in my brain, perhaps I could learn to play the harmonica!