Birthday bash

By Emma Sun
Pauline got the shock of her life when she was greeted by 40 people holding balloons and flowers at the Hallam Senior Citizens Hall.
“Dennis and Fran, my friends for many years, gave me an invitation to a party and I thought it was their wedding anniversary,” Pauline said.
“We got there and my grandson, Jesse, pushed me into the hall and all of a sudden I get a happy birthday and it was just the biggest shock. It was absolutely wonderful.”
Pauline was amazed that two sisters who had been her neighbours when she lived in Narre Warren East were able to attend.
“Before I married I lived in a little house and right opposite was a family called the Cooks,” Pauline said.
“Two of those girls, Margaret and Carmel, came to the party and I hadn’t seen them for God knows how many years.
“I’ve got a photo of Margaret holding my son when he was eight months old – she was only 12 at the time!”
She said she had a fantastic time and immensely enjoyed catching up with old friends.
“It was just so wonderful – my family all spoke and it brought tears from the eyes,” Pauline said.
“I will never be able to thank all those dear friends of mine and all of my family for what they did for me.
“I thank everybody so very much, particularly catching up with some of my old, but very dear friends.”