Bev Jackson could never have foreseen the unforeseeable.

When Bev's daughter, Teri, from North Carolina called on her cell phone to say hi and asked what she was doing, Bev replied that she was sitting on her porch overlooking the lake, relaxing. She in turn asked Teri what she was doing and Teri said “I’m at the front door, could you let me in?” I don’t think Bev believed her but went to the front door anyway, and the whole family from North Carolina greeted her.

But that was only the first part of Bev's birthday surprise. The family visited and settled in for what was to be a brief but memorable stay. Bev was pleased to see everyone, even if unexpected.

A couple days later, Teri suggested a luncheon outing in Belfast. It was a perfect Maine day and a great opportunity for a little change of scene, so off they all went.

By way of a little background, I worked with Bev at the Rocktide Inn. She managed the financial stuff with the Steane family owners, and, in general, helped to coordinate a lot of daily inn operation. At the same time she “did the books” for her husband Al’s service station that used to live on the lot that is now the Bath Savings bank. Plus be a mom. Light duty.

So, Bev and her North Carolinian family headed for a Belfast lunch, which turned out to be shared by about fifty other people! Surprise! “80” never looked so good. Bev flipped out! She was totally surprised.

Her real birthday was the following weekend. She had no idea. Family, relatives and friends from all over greeted her with hugs and good wishes, and memories. Additionally, great food, an incredible vista overlooking the bay and an outpouring of love topped off a wonderful day.

Bev now spends her winters in Florida. She had a little trouble with the big storm a couple years back but considers herself lucky, given that many had much bigger problems. She said that things are finally beginning to come back together. She enjoys her Florida community.

By the looks of things, life in Maine is still pretty good too. Happy birthday Bev and congratulations to family planners who pulled off a perfect celebration!