Perfect Pic

My cousin, who blogs over at Boondock Ramblings, has quite a way with a camera. I consider it to not just be a talent, but a true gift. Most of my favorite pictures of family members have been taken by her. She emailed this pic of my Momma and the Bubs to both my dad and me yesterday. We cried. That photo perfectly captures how I remember her and want others to remember her.

Dad had it in a frame and it stayed on top of the casket (which was closed per Momma's request) tonight. It was a bright spot of joy in the middle of a very difficult evening. You cannnot help but look at that picture and smile. I know it was a comfort to Dad, who repeatedly touched it and shared in people's delight over it...in between the tears.

To my cousin, L~
I know you are in pain because you couldn't come down to Momma's funeral. We understand why you could not be here. Truly, we do. Please don't beat yourself up about it, shug. Know that we love you and that Momma loved you. She always thought you were very talented, creative, smart....and, well, the list goes on! As for this picture of Momma and the Bubs, I will never be able to fully express how much it meant to Dad, Aaron and I to have it there this evening. It was, if I can say this about a viewing, the highlight of the evening for many who were there. Thank you for being thoughtful enough to do that for us. The Bubs will definitely be getting a copy, as you requested and I know he'll love it.

I love you, L.

And the award goes to....

Wow. I got an award! It was given to me by my cousin from Boondock Ramblings. I've never been a recipient of one of these before, but I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to share the love...

Boondock Ramblings, Journeying With St. Ignatius and Northern Outpost were all given this award already, but I must say that they remain my favorites. They all have such different points of view and alternately cause me to laugh, cry and reflect. They are also family and talented to boot!

Fried Okra - I know I'm new to your blog, but you never fail to make me laugh with your oh-so-southern outlook and hilarious dialogue! I have found a fellow blogger who understands what it is to be a southern gal...no matter where you may be. (I love that you know how to use words like "forty-leven"!)

Striving for Divine Love - The first thing I noticed about your blog was the plan of Salvation at the top of your page. The only thing I can say about that is...You Go Girl! I've enjoyed cheering you on as you tackle new experiences in your life. You're an inspiration! (Yes, even when your spell check is on the fritz!)

Celtic Knots - A creative, talented American mom to two adorable lasses who lives in Ireland. I connected to you not only through your writing and love of creativity, but because we are going through something similar...our mothers are battling breast cancer. I'm cheering you and your Mom on, Shug!!

Gathering Grace - I came across your blog quite by accident the other day, but have already enjoyed your mix of whimsy, practicality and faith. I'm not even sure if I've commented on your blog, yet...Oops! If I've committed a blogging faux pas, please forgive me!

American Quilter in Ireland - The title says it all...or does it? You not only are a quilting fanatic, but you have a family, run a B&B, help with the farm...and the list probably goes on! I've enjoyed our comments back and forth to one another and look forward to more.

Verry Sherry - Somewhere between the posts about your precious Cutiepie and Babydoll's antics, to your recent posts about the Great Job search of '08, which was laugh out loud funny at times, you've charmed me!

Flower Fairies and Fairy Cakes - When I saw the title of your blog, I just had to see it! Your "dispatches from the front line in the Button household" are very funny and I constantly log on to find out what happens in the next episode of "Betty"!