Bunty,

What a pleasure and privilege it is to have an opportunity to extend happy wishes and be able to share with you some thoughts, without you insisting on paying for the coffee!

Many years ago, we met over the chopping of vegetables and serving of food at Sacred Heart Mission and a firm and fast friendship was forged – certainly the heat coming off the bain marie made that happen rather efficiently!  It didn’t take very long to work out that the ubiquitous six degrees of separation applied to us.  I now realise that I should not have been surprised when you exclaimed that yes, you knew my brother from way back in the Ajax Footie Club days when Harold ran the show – and in your usual generous and curious way, asked how he was, the family and all that came with that.   Many other coincidences popped up in conversation – Zest Cafe in East Brighton comes to mind – all those years ago the place would not have been quite the same without the enthusiastic contributions from you and your family as both customers and outstanding employees! How it is that you know so many people and can call so many of them friends, never ceases to amaze me – you just need to allow all of us the opportunity to shout you that coffee sometimes too!

Over the years we have shared many stories, some bringing on uproarious laughter, and others some tears – it is not often that I feel so comfortable and safe listening and sharing such personal events and circumstances and I thank you for both your ear, advice and trust – and know that it will always be reciprocated.

Only very recently you reminded me of your strength of character when the topic of the new movie “The Imitiation Game” came up.  To think that the opening scenes of mothers at the train station in London with their precious babies applied so directly to you, and when you look at the life you have built, what strength of spirit and love of life that demonstrates – it is something to aspire to, that’s for sure.

I don’t think I know anyone who the expression “80 years young” could apply to more. Sitting at South Melbourne Market with you on a busy Saturday morning for the Christmas Wrapping Fundraiser for Sacred Heart in full swing was a pure joy.  Of course, you had it all sorted – table out, wrapping paper and ribbon in the ready, signage posted – all we needed was customers.  And when they did roll up, well, needless to say, the engaging chit chat commenced and all I needed to do was pass the scissors and get the coffee and cake!

I am always in awe of your enthusiasm, energy, generosity, honesty and integrity – I learn from it and not only see how it contributes to our friendship but to the lives of all the people fortunate enough to be in your hemisphere.

Most recently you gave me some very sound advice, gleaning from your own personal experiences, and you should know that it has played a major role in my choosing a new career direction – well, let’s call it a 90 degree right hand turn.

I am delighted and honoured to know you, to call you my friend, and wish you a truly sensational 81st year.  Glad to be a part of it!

My love and kisses to you.  Love Deb xx