Fort Simpson (Apr 08/05) - For kids, birthdays are the next best thing to Christmas.

The anticipation can lead to an excited sleepless night before the big day of presents, rich foods, games and sleep-overs.

It seems, however, that birthdays lose their magic as a person ages. Upon hitting 30 or 40, many people prefer not to be reminded that another year has passed.

For elders who aren't so self-conscious, the Stanley Isaiah supportive living home has a birthday wish: come celebrate with us!

Activities co-ordinator Jacqueline Elleze has set aside the last Thursday afternoon of each month to mark seniors' birthdays that occurred during the previous 30 days.

Some of the elders celebrate their birthdays privately with family, but, Elleze noted, the supportive living home's modest bash is intended to be a social function for the older set.

"It will get them together to talk," she said. "And I like their company."

She started the monthly function in February and hasn't been checking birth certificates at the door. Therefore elders can celebrate more than once.

Last week elders Mabel Grossetete, Alice Gaudet and Ted Bouvier were at the centre of the festivities. After a few inquiries were made, it was determined that Bouvier and Grossetete were actually January babies while Gaudet came into the world in May. It made no difference.

"I sure like that cake," Gaudet said after polishing off her piece.

"Good for sure," added Bouvier, who proudly announced a couple of times that he's now 81 years old.

Amidst plenty of balloons and festive Happy Birthday signs hanging on the walls, Elleze said she would also like to bring the elders together to help bake the birthday cake in the early afternoon.

She plans other activities as well, such as sewing afternoons, cribbage and fun bingos. When the weather warms up, there will be outdoor activities such as making dry fish around the fire pit just outside the supportive living home, Elleze noted.