I have a better photo of Elfriede, but this one shows her working. She was constantly working during our entire visit--either in her garden or in her kitchen. She kept us well-fed, mostly with food from her own garden. She also made two cakes (poppy seed and apple) totally from scratch during the three days we were there. And she used very little sweeteners so I could eat them.
A couple days later, she walked over a half mile up a steep hill to see a waterfall with us. We had only 40 minutes before the park closed, so she wouldn't even rest on a bench halfway up the hill because she was afraid we might get locked in the park if we didn't get back in time. I arranged for the park rangers to give her a ride back to the parking lot so she wouldn't have to rush on the way back. She doesn't look 90 years old or act 90 years old. She is my role model for aging with grace and stamina.
BTW, I did offer to water her garden but she refused any help. I also offered to do dishes and to help cook. Occasionally she would let me help her but only when we were working side by side. She would never sit down while I washed the dishes or cleaned up. She said that I was on vacation. I pointed out that she should have a vacation too, but she seemed to be happier when she was busy. I'm sure she must have rested some after we left, but probably not for long.
She reminds me so much of my grandmother. Nanny lived with us from when I was in 5th grade until she died after I graduated from high school. I miss her but feel her presence in Elfriede.
