(Michael Dashiell/Olympic Peninsula News Group)

(Michael Dashiell/Olympic Peninsula News Group)

93 birthday candles

SEQUIM — Family and friends gather — and give an “air hug” — to Mary Andrew to celebrate her 93rd birthday at Sinclair Place in Sequim on Monday, July 6, 2020.

COVID-19 pandemic health precautions that restrict visitors have forced senior and assisted living facilities to get creative in helping families stay connected.

“They’re always surprising me,” Andrew said, recalling a birthday party on her 80th that saw five generations come together.

“I’m one short,” Andrew said Monday — noting Bill, her husband of 73 years, died in early September.

On hand this week to celebrate No. 93 were daughters Donna and Debbie, in-laws and “adopted” family members, with daughter Linda attending virtually by phone.