She was determined to live to 100 years old. Her Roman Catholic faith unwavering. Pride of her Sicilian heritage. And she radiated so much light. She was my great Aunt Ann, my grandmother's sister who had been a major maternal force in my infant and toddler years. She was always smiling, always speaking positive about everyone, and loved to chat on the phone even at 100 years old.
I visited with her when I was 18 years old, and then lost touch for 30 years. I found her on Facebook! She was in her mid 90's and on Facebook! In 2021, she was turning 100, and there would be a big party for her. Immediately I began to plan my trip to see her, and bring my oldest daughter with me.
She lived in Costa Mesa among her children and some of her grandchildren. When we got off the plane, we went right to see her, and what a sweet feeling that was. I had been speaking with her on the phone up until our visit, and then to hug her was an incredible feeling. She showed us old pictures, and that in itself was a gift.
The following day was her birthday party. She was wheeled in with a tiara crown! She had hundreds of people gathering around her-she was so well loved. She was presented with a plaque from the mayor of Costa Mesa! AND then she was presented with a Papal blessing from the Pope! This was incredibly special for her. Here we are celebrating her mega birthday-
For her birthday, I made her a throw blanket with flowers. She was a homebody and I wanted to give her something handmade-
During our stay in Southern California, my daughter and I stayed in San Clemente. This is a beautiful city, and we really enjoyed this little getaway.
I was so grateful and glad I made the visit to see Aunt Ann. She passed away the following May. She lived to 100-1/2. While I know she lived a wonderful life, I miss her light. The day my cousin gave the news, this was in the sky above me. For me, I felt her light one last time. I love you Aunt Ann.
