This is what 100 years old looks like. My aunt Pauline became a centenarian on Monday, September 28, 2009. Her birthday party was Sunday at the Long Lake Lutheran Church in Long Lake, South Dakota. The population of Long Lake is in dispute but I was told on good authority that there are 33 citizens of this shrinking town.
There were at least 60 people at her party. Mostly senior citizens, mostly with the last name of Schumacher. (Aunt Pauline's maiden name is Schumacher.) It was a great party. I saw a cousin I haven't seen in about 45 years. Two other cousins attended and I was thrilled to spend time with them too.
Pauline Schaffer was born in South Dakota in 1909. She is now the oldest remaining daughter of Ludwig and Eva Schumacher (German immigrants.) Aunt Ella is 98 now and my mom, the baby, as I mentioned, just turned 85. (I have another uncle who will be 99 in January -- my dad's brother in law.)
When we arrived on Friday night (after a 4 hour drive from Fargo, North Dakota) we were greeted with smiles and hugs and happiness. After a midwestern meal of ham, sliced white bread and kool aid ... and watching the Twins on satellite, we settled into bed and Leah asked me "Why do all those people love me so much? They don't even know me." I said "That's how it is in our family. When you're in this family you are loved."
And that's my foundation. Unconditional love. We aren't an overly demonstrative family but the love has always been constant and unconditional. Long Lake may be a dying town but the heart of our family will always be alive.
2 comments:
Aunt Pauline looks so much like your mother! She is thinner than I remember. It is so good that you and Leah could make the trip!
Yes, she is smaller than she used to be. It gives me hope. Maybe I will finally fit into my skinny jeans when I am 100.
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