Bear in mind she can't anticipate her special day so we break the news, in a nonchalant manner, the day before. On the day it's a tightrope between making her feel special and not letting her get so emotional with all the attention and treats that it all gets a bit much.
This year we gave her birthday kisses and cuddles and 2 gifts before she sent on her way to her usual routine and as soon as she was out of the door, the frenzied planning and cooking began to prepare a surprise party for her and seven nearest and dearest.
When she walked in at 4.30pm the fun began and continued for 5 hours until she fell asleep on the couch.
Highlights this year?
- Her delight at opening up her stuff
- The banana birthday cake with Belgian chocolate ice cream
- La's frequent bursts of applause, which we all joined in, in joyous celebration of the day.
At a time when a terrifying report is published about abuses in care homes I just pray that we can spend many more like this, all together.
