In Memoriam

Frances Loftiss Carroll, the writer of this blog, died unexpectedly the morning of December 23, 2008, in a single-vehicle car accident. I could tell you that she was 67 years old, but that wouldn't really tell you anything about her.

She was a the much-beloved mother to the two of us. She set the example for us in love, in giving without expecting return, and in enjoying the simple pleasures of God's creation.

She was "Nana" to three little girls who loved her so very much. They loved playing with her, laughing with her, and just spending time with her.

Mainly, she just hoped that she could show others the love of God. I hope she did that for you in the words of this blog.

Let me share one childhood memory. But it's not my memory. It's the memory of a classmate of mine, a little girl named Debbie. Debbie was in my Brownie troop. Mom was our leader. Debbie had a really hard life, and Mom always felt for her.

I recently became reacquainted with the adult Debbie. She's doing great now -- a mom who's seeking her college degree. She wrote this to me:

"I also remember your mother and how wonderful she was with all the troop activities. I so admired you for having such a wonderful and involved mother. Don't ever take her abilities for granted or let a day pass that you don't tell her how much you love her and how thankful that she was so dedicated to you."

Thankfully, I made sure to pass Debbie's kind words along to Mom. Mom really appreciated those words and made a comment along the lines that memories like that were what really mattered.

So, please take some time tonight, to remember Mom, and remember all of us, too. I don't know what we're going to do without her love.

May the peace of Christ be yours,
Mary Ann

PS If you need to contact us, you should be able to through this blog. All comments must be moderated (that is, read by someone before they're posted to the web). If you need to pass along your contact information, you will safely be able to do so here.

Church Socials - Let's Fellowship

One of the wonderful things about Southern Baptist is that we like to get together and talk and eat. Last night was a prime example of that as we had our Sunday evening gathering and our Christmas meal after a time of singing, worshiping and hearing a message from the pastor.

We then gathered in what we call the fellowship hall and ate our potluck Christmas meal together. It was wonderful, the food was great and a lot of variety and great dishes to chow down on. Best yet is never knowing who you will be sitting near or what kind of conversations you will have.

I thank those ladies from my Sunday school class who gave me gifts. This was very kind and thoughtful of you and I treasure your presence on Sundays as we study the Word of God together. God blesses me in countless ways and this class has been a significant blessing to me.

CHILDREN'S LAUGHTER ON TOUGH DAYS

Saturday was one of those really tough days we have to endure as adults. Despite my personal heartache it was a time to have some laughter and to enjoy seeing my 3 granddaughters playing together. We went to visit Dave, MAC and Maggie for a few hours, to have some celebration of Christmas together and to enjoy fellowship; and although it was a day of deep personal hurt, the passing of my mother some years ago, I got through it pretty well.

Remembering those we love is expected, keeping on living in the moment is a necessity; blending the two is sometimes difficult. However, the sound of happiness and laughter is always welcome; even when the soul is weighed heavy with sorrow.

Thanks for the sweet day my family.