Story and Photos by Patricia Hudson
Grayson Moss moved to Spring Cypress Assisted Living and Memory Care, 16306 Spring Cypress Road, Cypress, in August, 2019. Since his arrival, 96-year-old Grayson has become an integral part of Spring Cypress. An Ambassador on the Welcome Committee, Grayson takes great pleasure in greeting new residents. This spry nonagenarian loves to exercise every day, and takes delight in encouraging others to get involved.
“Grayson is such an interesting gentleman, so filled with knowledge and such a pleasure to be around,” explains Shelli Smith, Vibrant Life Director at Spring Cypress Assisted Living. One of Grayson’s lifelong dreams has always been to visit Paris, France. As VLD, I decided to fulfill his dream by giving him a trip to Paris through our Livin’ the Dream Program. ‘The Dream’ is similar to ‘Make a Wish’ or a ‘Bucket List.’ It is something they have always wanted to do in their lifetime, but not yet had the opportunity to do. While we couldn’t actually fly him to Paris, we were able to bring Paris to him! He was especially pleased that his extended family, numbering more than a dozen, along with his friends, were there to share in his dream.”
Arrangements for the Paris themed event held in early May included a stamped passport at the start of the journey, and jaunty French berets donned all around. Intent on making this an extra special event, Shelli contacted Grayson’s family, some of whom live in the Coles Crossing community, and shared her plans. Smith then connected with Frenchwoman, Veronique Howard of Arts & Crepes Bistro on the Go. Veronique’s sons, Jason and Matisse, dressed to impress in striped shirts, aprons and red berets, and helped to create the mood by setting up a French Bistro, complete with a background reminiscent of a sidewalk cafe in Paris. A 6’ Eiffel Tower enticed patrons to approach their Parisian themed eatery on wheels. Trays of assorted meats, cheeses, and crackers made the rounds. Grayson and his guests were delighted with the pièce de résistance: delectable crepes of Nutella and crème brulee, each topped with decadent dollops of whipped cream, and served with a cool beverage. Delightful bite-sized cheesecakes completed the food offerings. For Grayson and his guests, the entire experience was très magnifique! Grayson loved every minute of it, and still talks about his day in Paris,” reflects Smith. “It was a lovely, lovely evening of great memories,” recalls Grayson fondly.
