Maureen Hopkins had outlived most of her family. Her parents, her siblings, aunts, uncles, first cousins, and many of her second cousins. Sadly, even two of her three children.

Today was Maureen’s 100th birthday. Her only living daughter, Elizabeth, was accompanied by her two children and their children. Maureen’s other grandchildren made the drive as well, with their children and their children’s children.

Yes, Maureen had outlived many, but in her long life, she had also gained many. From three children came eight grandchildren. From eight grandchildren came fourteen great grandchildren. Maureen would also meet her first great great grandchild, Nora.

The family knew this would be the only chance to have five generations of Hopkins women in one room. Elizabeth knew her mother likely wouldn’t have another day. Her heart wrenched at the thought. Her father had passed nearly 20 years ago and, if she was being honest, she never believed her mother would make it this long without her soulmate.

Maureen had begun seeing and talking to Elizabeth’s dad in recent days. This was a sign Elizabeth recognized. Her dad, her sister, and her brother had all seen the faces of those long past when they were in their final days.

Elizabeth confided in the her children and word soon spread to the rest of the family, like a wildfire through the phone. The oldest great grandchild, Amy, had her daughter, Nora, just a month ago. The timing seemed to perfectly align for a final reunion for Maureen’s birthday.

Amy was exhausted, quite frankly, but she had always been close to Elizabeth, who was her direct grandmother, and she summoned all her strength to get her family to the birthday affair.

Nora was still in her sleepy newborn phase, at least during the day when it was less useful then those fitful nights, and she pleasantly slept in her portable bassinet next to Maureen, who had smiled widely when she saw her.

“She’s so beautiful!” Maureen exclaimed, with tears welling up in her eyes. Amy wiped away a tear, stemming from love and exhaustion and pride.

Everyone in the room felt an ache welling in their hearts at the beauty of the moment, and at the utter sorrow that would follow in the days to come.

Maureen’s eyes grew heavy and she mumbled her desire for a nap. She drifted off next to Nora. Maureen felt complete in that moment as she looked beyond her family and smiled widely at her husband and other two children beckoning her.

Elizabeth whispered, “I love you, mama.” And Maureen was ready to go home, her heart full and surrounded by family.

Happy 100th birthday, Maureen Hopkins.