GOOD NEIGHBORS ON DELMARVA
ByLisa Spicer

Meet Naomi Cowgill
For most of us the word "family" conjures up memories of childhood; feeling safe and secure, wrapped in a blanket of love. Unfortunately those memories of family begin to dim for many older people. They suddenly find themselves unable to get around the way they used to and they feel like a burden to loved ones busy with their own growing families. If you’re lucky enough to know Naomi Cowgill of Delmar, being alone won’t happen just because you’re getting older. Naomi has welcomed senior ladies into her home for ten years now. She says, "These ladies are my family". Naomi and her mother Ruth Ann Cowgill share their home today with two borders. Laura Brittingham just celebrated her 100th birthday and Irene Morgan entertains anyone who asks with a song.

Their tidy home is filled with the sounds of family. A t.v. is on in the back room, dishes are being washed in the kitchen and friends are popping in to chat, "not a day goes by someone doesn’t stop by to visit". Naomi makes sure her elderly borders are comfortable and happy," You don’t have a schedule, you are flexible. I believe you should eat together as a family. My biggest job is entertainment; if I smile they are okay". The "girls", as
Naomi calls them, also enjoy outings to church and stores. Keeping the family together comes naturally to Naomi. Growing up in Denton, she
says there was always someone who needed a little extra. "We’ve taken care of people all our lives, whether an aunt or grandmother." Later she worked in a doctor’s office. Naomi says she saw so many seniors losing the battle to stay independent, she decided she had enough room in her heart and home to help. As one of Delmarva’s Good Neighbors, Naomi continues that tradition, opening her home to ladies lucky enough to become part of her family.