A special lady...Trista Rickey Wilson

It is with a big smile on my face that I pen this entry today.  I've thought alot about this young lady lately.  On the clearest, brightest days, I can think of my niece Trista and it truly warms my heart.  I don't see her often, but when I do, she simply makes a difference.  She's been on this planet three plus decades and she makes a difference...in her family...at her work...anywhere she passes.

Her heart is huge and her smile is infectious!  I remember when she was just a little toddler and she was the same way then...always, always, happy and smiling.

She has had some dark days recently.  Her loss has been great, so very great.  Her husband of eighteen years passed away suddenly in January.  She's now a single mom, the parent of three amazing boys.  She is strong and resolute, committed to doing all she can to move ahead...and yes, with that amazing smile!  I won't worry about this special lady.  She is a survivor and she'll continue to brighten this planet by just being herself.

Bert & Eva's kids...

David, Patty, Bert and Sharron
Sunset Cafe, Sunset Station, Henderson, Nevada
February 3, 2011

Thursday, February 3rd, 2011, my siblings and their spouses and Ann and I went out to dinner at Sunset Station, here in Henderson.  This was the first time all of us have been together in ten years.  Sharron and Macy and Patty and Bill were here visiting from Spokane.  We had an enjoyable dinner out.  Accompanying us was our oldest son and two of his boys and Bert's daughter and her three sons.  The picture above shows the four of us after dinner.  Smile Mom and Dad!  We took a picture!!

Beth...

Ann & Beth
Mitchell & Erin's Wedding Reception
June 2008

Mitchell, Erin & Beth
Wedding Reception
June 2008

Three weeks ago, February 7th, 2011, a dear friend of ours passed away after a short illness.  This planet said goodbye to a 41 year old friend, cousin, aunt, sister, daughter, mother and wife.  Her funeral was held five days later and there was standing room only where Beth was eulogized  and remembered by colleagues, family and friends.  A reception was held after the services where Beth served as Principal for three years.  Hundreds visited, enjoyed food and refreshment and remembered an amazing life well lived.

Beth was the person that hired me ten years ago for my first job as a school counselor.  Several years later she hired my wife as as a secretary at her school and then promoted her to be the school's office manager and her personal secretary.  The last ten years have given us many memories of Beth at work, at home and at school.  She attended some of our family events, such as baby blessings, mission farewells and wedding receptions.  We've been at her home on numerous occasions, enjoying her mother, her daughters and  her husband...and enjoying Beth.

Our hearts have been heavy because of the mortal loss of this wonderful lady.  She was all about laughter and making each moment count.  In her 41 years on this planet, she packed it all in...living a full and rewarding life.  We celebrate her.  We love her.  Yes, we miss her.  Oh how she touched our life.  Laugh Beth, laugh and wait for us.