Lucia’s home is for the birds.

This is the drive up to Lucia’s new digs at the Masonic Home in Union City (the last one is the view of the gate as you leave). It’s the longest, windiest, most scenic driveway she’s ever had, to be sure. As you can see, it’s groomed like a lush resort. You have to drive really slow because peacocks and wild turkeys have the right of way — and they know it.

There are birds inside, too. In fact, Lucia’s favorite hangout is the solarium at the end of her hallway, where three very fortunate little tweeters (I think they’re finches, but I’m not sure) live in a custom-made, glassed-in aviary. They play and sing all day long. We often enjoy lunch at one of the dining tables right beside them. Sometimes we just relax on the sofa and read. Whatever we do, it’s Lucia’s domain and she loves it.

She told me repeatedly on Monday how much she likes living there.

This is a wonderful place. So much space everywhere. The men who built it really knew what they were doing.

The people there already call her Grandma, at her insistence, and treat her with love and kindness all the time. I’m basking in an attitude of gratitude.