This is What 101 Years Young Looks Like!

 My Mom, Marie McDermott, made it "in style" to 101 years young today.  Yesterday evening we headed out to the Isles Yacht Club to celebrate.  My brother, Paul, and sister-in-law, Diane, visited for Thanksgiving and were here to help with the festivity.  Also in attendance was Norma Jean Rich, Mom's best friend at South Port Square.  Mom ordered her favorite prime rib while most of the rest of us opted for the sumptuous seafood buffet with made to order pasta.  Yum!   

The band, Commodore, and many others wished Mom well and sang Happy Birthday.  The highlight was Mom dancing with Paul and me (Joanne) to "How Sweet It Is to be Loved by You."  It was a special day that I will treasure and always remember.

This is what 101 looks like!

Joanne, Mom and Paul

Richard, Mom and Joanne

Diane, Mom and Paul

Mom's friend, Norma Jean, and Mom

Mannheim Steamroller

 

Punta Gorda Garden Club

Every year the Punta Gorda Garden Club decorates historic homes and/or gardens with natural materials from our area to celebrate the Holidays.  I've always been intrigued with the beautiful handmade creations.  This year I decided it was time to tap into my creative side and help them with this noble cause.  All profits are given to worthy local charities!

Our leader, Cindy Dorety, gives freely of her time and home to teach us how to create these novel decorations for an Antique Car Christmas Garden.  We've met every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 to 1.  Each day we have a goal and this past Tuesday, we created presents to decorate the gardens.  Check out some of the results below.  

What a fantastic group of women with creative ideas and positive encouragement!

Our enthusiastic leader, Cindy

Creative Betty with her Lollypop

Janice decorated a candy cane
theme box

Punta Gorda Halloween

Halloween Night in Punta Gorda Historic District was lots of fun.  The first picture on left is Joanne, her sisters, Claire and Mary, with almost 101 years young Mom, Marie (in transport chair).  Center is Richard in his Cat in the Hat Costume with our friend, Marcy, the Queen of Hearts, lastly is Joanne with friend, Michelle.  

The bottom collage are scenes around town.  Such a special fun time!