Courtesy of Milestone Senior Living
TOMAHAWK – Ms. Ellie turned 94 recently, and she wears it well.
Ellie was raised in Ashland on a farm where she was the second child of 16. She had to leave home and live with another family in town, where she worked for them to cover her room and board, so she could finish high school. She has spirit, is a wonderful soul and always wears a contagious smile.
Her family said she just loved entertaining. Country music literally “sparks” her, whether she is singing, tapping her toes or dancing.
Her daughter asked if she could hire Mark Wayne and his steel guitar to come to Milestone to entertain. This was a Dare to Dream, as we have not had live entertainment during COVID.
Ellie showed up in a glittery gold jacket and makeup with her hair curled and dancing shoes on. There wasn’t an empty seat in the dining room, and the tenants said they could have listened to Mark entertain with country music all day. Mark has such charisma and was playing for the audience while honoring Ellie.
Ellie was smiling the whole time, as you could see it in her eyes. This was an awesome experience for all to see. Towards the end, Chris got her mom up to dance to the Tennessee Waltz. There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd, as this brought the “old” Ellie we know to the dance floor. Even Ellie had a tear.
After the music, we enjoyed the infamous “family” poppy seed cake and chocolate dipped strawberries.
This literally was a sweet afternoon, and what an awesome Dare to Dream.
