Some wish to hide their age, not willing to admit that so much time has passed since birth:) Maryellen LeDuc wears it with pride as a badge of accomplishment. It is an inspirational path I wish I was better at taking. She is an accomplished mother, nurse, volunteer extraordinaire for Ronald McDonald House on the island, and to me a very good friend. In fact she is a very good friend to all who are lucky enough to know her. The celebration was a gathering of many BOI’s (born on island:) as well as ROI’s (retired on island:). One thing we all had in common was memories and gray hairs; although many of us refuse to show it. It was a joy to see so many who aged gracefully with a full head of silvery gray locks, of course everyone knows red heads never turn gray. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

As the party progressed, the guys gathered in the kitchen to tell golf and fishing stories, while the ladies gathered at the table for plenty of local news and a bit of gossip. It was such a comfortable gathering of old friends who had more grandchildren stories than the law allows. Oddly everyone there had the most beautiful and accomplished grandangels ever.

Maryellen’s children gathered from all corners of the US to surprise her with a celebration in her own island home. Where else on the island could you find such a perfectly beautiful place to celebrate? The subtle pieces of art Maryellen has placed throughout are a lifetime collection to remind you of her love of children and travel. My favorite piece was brought back from Egypt, telling a fascinating story of fact and ancient fable. The latest addition was a birthday quilt gifted her by a friend, just in time for the party. It hangs just below the impressive photo of all of her children and grands.

The grandchildren were there too, and luckily for grandma they all looked very similar to their grandmother. One exception was the new grandpuppy Puppo, a beautiful little Maltese. He loved everyone, and calmly licked every party-goer that gave him some attention. I’ve always preferred larger dogs, but this little doll won my heart. I’m thinking Maltese for my next grandpuppy. They do eat less, and fit under the seat easily on the plane:)