It was a setting fit for a queen. Befitting, as family and friends of Mary Power think of the 108-year-old woman as royalty.
Her name is Mary but all hands in the room affectionately called her Muffey. It's a name she gave herself when she decided she didn't want anybody calling her nanny or granny.
Power, a native of Gambo who lives in Corner Brook, celebrated her 108th birthday with a gathering of family, friends and various clergy Friday at her home - a former B&B known as Power's Tourist Home - in Corner Brook which kept her on her toes in her younger life.
The birthday girl, with her granddaughter Janice Webber by her side, was happy to have so many people celebrate her birthday with her.
She couldn't hazard a guess on how many people called her or sent a card or flowers, but she proved she's up on today's technology because she had 117 likes on Facebook from people wishing her a great birthday. She expected the number to rise before the day was out.
Adorned in a flowery blouse with matching green pants, she wore a gold cross around her neck and she had rosary beads on her arm.
“She's not dressed up until she got that on,” her granddaughter Janice said.
She is unable to see and has trouble hearing, but she surprised her family at the celebration with her chattiness during the visit.
One of the highlights of her day was the presence of several clergy members who dropped by to see her, particularly Rev. Edward Terry, who celebrates communion with her every Sunday.
When asked, she said she worked hard and tried to be kind to everybody she met and she hopes everybody can do the same.
What about words of wisdom to share with the younger generation?
“Go to church," she said. "Whatever church they belong to it doesn't make any difference ... and don't do anything bad. If you live a good life that's all you will need.”
Muffey may have needed some direction from her granddaughter during conversation because of her hearing, but not when it came to letting it known that she was getting hungry.
“A half cup of tea and two sandwiches, and I don't care what kind they are,” she said.
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