The Queen: Her first 90 years

For Gigi's 90^th birthday, it wasn't enough to just get her out on the golf course. I wanted her to play.Mom, Dad, Dick, and Jason teed off earlier that morning. I stayed back at the house with Gigi. We could sleep in, take our time getting ready, then meet the crew for the back nine. When we got to the course, there was a cart waiting for us. Gigi insisted on driving. I wasn't about to get in the way of the birthday girl.Off we went, the cart cruising speedily through an unseasonably cool Texas breeze. Gigi talked about her love of the game and how happy she was on that golf course, though she hardly made it out any more. As the round ended and we cruised by the putting greens, I told her to stop the cart. It was time to properly celebrate her birthday.She made her way on to the green, took the putter, and knocked the ball right into the back of the cup. Again. And again. Her touch was still there, a confident stroke, and a giggle. Six shots later and it was time to call it an afternoon. Only after doing the thing she loved though; playing golf on her 90^th birthday.The family gathered that weekend in San Angelo to celebrate and honor the Queen, our matriarch of matriarchs. Dinner was at the Country Club (where else?). Dad celebrated Gigi's first 90 years by using music to tell her story. Music has always been such an integral part of the Robertson family. Dick told stories of growing up and trips to Florida. Gigi also spoke, saying that the secret to living to 90 was "Love. Laughter and love." She later added "nobody's had as much fun as I have." It's a point few could argue.We spent the evening as a family. True love and respect coursed through the room. I'm not sure there was a dry eye after any of the speeches. I may have even seen Gigi dab at her eyes once or twice. It's hard to imagine a world in which Gloria Robertson, that pillar of strength, isn't there.To truly celebrate her birthday, the family is organizing a living memorial in her name at the San Angelo Golf Course. She mentioned to me last Thanksgiving that she planned on leaving some money for a golf course improvement after she passed away. Something about that didn't seem right; she shouldn't have to die to be recognized.I've worked with Dad and Dick to get the project started. Donations are currently being accepted and anyone who's been touched by Gigi is invited to join us. Full details are in the attached flyer. The project should be unveiled in fall 2015.Happy birthday Gigi! We love you!