Barbara Festa's son, Thomas gave his mother a surprise 90th birthday party at the Savor Restaurant in Somerville, N.J. on Sunday, Feb. 5th which was one day before her actual birthday on February 6th. There were about 50 of us- family and friends who were there to greet her as she walked through the door with Thomas who had picked her up from the Eastern Star Home in Bridgewater, N.J. which is her residence.

The day before the party someone from California, where she once lived, sent a message to Barbara saying she was sorry she would be missing her party so that let the cat out of the bag as far as a surprise went.

Barbara has Multiple Sclerosis so she uses a wheelchair but she looked so beautiful. Her long blonde hair was arranged so perfectly on top of her head and her skin was smooth with no visible wrinkles. Her outfit was also very attractive. She looked more like a good looking 70 year old than someone who had reached 90.

Whenever someone asks how she is she always gives a positive answer, "I'm extraordinary."

Barbara's older sister, Lorraine Kuebler had died just a couple of weeks before the party at the age of 95 but some of her grown children were there. Her sister, Carol had died about five years ago but some of her grown children attended the party also.

A group of the  guests traveled all the way from Sullivan County which was 2 1/2 hours from there. When I was introduced to them it was not as June Donohue, The Sense of  Direction columnist, but as June Krantz, Clarence Krantz' daughter. 

Many of those there had my father as their teacher. One of Barbara's brothers told me that when he was in fourth grade my father would share his sandwich with him and also buy him a container of milk.

It was wonderful to see Barbara interact with her great-grandchildren who you could see were very fond of her. I was so glad to be able to share in that great event with her, a classmate and friend as well as a fellow cheerleader, who continues to spread cheer to many who need it.