Submitted by Larchmont resident Jody Harrow:
My neighbor Belle turned 106 years young (born 1917) on June 28. Her insights abound when she’s addressing these key points: learning to adapt, respecting oneself, enjoying life, social interactions, setting goals for oneself and trying to accomplish those goals.
Her mental and emotional capacities remain fully intact – possibly even strengthened with age. She is physically fit and quite strong but in the last few years has experienced a lack of eye sight.
“You learn to walk without a limb,” she says.
We both discovered my mother and she were born and raised in the same small town in upstate NY – South Fallsburg. Although she initially withheld the name of the town thinking I wouldn’t know it, I pressed her and this coincidence has bonded us over the years.
Most significantly, upon my mother’s recent death, just shy of 100, I feel Belle’s words of wisdom, especially adapting, resonate deeply within me.
Happy Birthday! Wishing you would have a group meeting so young people like me (74) could ask you questions about your life and how you have stayed so young at heart. amazing!
I remember from the eye doctor’s office as well! Lovely lady!
I’m sooo glad Bella is doing well and everyone can learn just a bit from her strength. What a beautiful woman. Happy Birthday to you 🎂
Your old hair dresser from the Lemon Tree ❤
Tina Pirrone
She was the secretary for many years to the eye doctor I went to on Palmer Avenue. She was always so friendly.
Hi Jody – I asked her what her secret to long life and what she likes to eat, she said ice cream! Also – during one of those very windy days in winter she insisted to her help that she wanted to go out for a walk, when even I stayed inside.
That was very impressive! Thanks for this lovely piece on our neighbor. Sorry for the loss of your Mom.
see you in the elevator.