I am humbled. I am grateful. I am honored. And I am overwhelmed. I said it to the people who came to my 90th birthday celebration at Bethel, and I say it again to the many people who made that lovely celebration possible and to those who sent good wishes even if they couldn't attend.

I also say it again to those who came, and there were many: Thank you for caring and sharing. Many of you, family and friends, I expected to see, but there were also lots of surprises. And I loved every minute.

It was indeed a delightful party. Bethel's "gathering room" was lovely with fancy tables, beautiful flowers, interesting decorations and a lot of delicious food.

Obviously, a great deal of thought and effort had been expended. Even members of the Community Chorale came and sang. Your talents were noticed and appreciated.

To have the county board of commissioners not only issue a proclamation for "my day," but also for Chairman Mike Berg to act as master of ceremonies - that really is an honor I don't deserve. But I thank you anyway.

Representatives from several organizations with which I have been affiliated brought greetings (although they had been warned about a one-minute time limit). And they and some of their members also brought all those goodies.

Our local newspapers covered this birthday as though I am a celebrity. Although I am a bit embarrassed by the publicity, I'll admit that it was effective. And that's what local papers are all about, thank goodness.

I came home with a lovely plaque, hundreds of cards with meaningful messages, a memory book to which lots of pictures will be added, a mind full of smiling faces, and a heart full of loving conversations. All of these I will treasure.

As soon as I can, I hope to thank, in person or in writing, those who worked to make that celebration happen.

Right now, I need to declare publicly my appreciation to Judy Baer, who coordinated the event; Stacey Leonhardt, who, I think, started the idea and put together information and to my church for hosting the party.

If ever anyone was given their flowers before they died, I certainly have that pleasure. I love you and thank you.

Helen Taylor's column appears periodically in the Dawson Community News.