On May 7, Lois Durst celebrated her 97th birthday with the help of Mason Bluebonnet Study Club friends. With birds singing in the background, the party was held in the lush green patio area of Brady West Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. A pastel polka dotted table cloth topped with noise makers and baloons and a huge cake baked by Edna Earle Benton greeted Lois when she came through the door to the patio. Blushing and laughing, and still beautiful, she hugged her friends and had to suffer through a slightly off key rendition of "Happy Birthday". Singing to her were Edna Earle Benton, Tanya Lamoreaux, Mary Carlman, Tommie Lou Luckenbach, Carol Jordan, Mary Ellen Merkel, and Betty Meyer.

A Teddy bear holding a birthday cake was presented to Lois along with a big green frog to say that the group just hopped on over to help her celebrate. When candles were lit on the cake, a fireman’s hat was placed on Lois’ head, even though numerals of 9 and 7 were used in place of 97 candles.....this brought a big laugh from her. A basket of various snacks that she is known to favor was presented as well as two lovely floral arrangements that had been sent from Mason friends. Delicious cake and beverages were served by Edna Earle Benton.

With many hugs and "I love you’s", the party ended with Lois going back to her room with the gifts in tow.