Dearly Departed Friends

This blog is for those of you on the "other side." If you have time to read blogs in heaven, I hope you will read this one. On my way home from walking this morning, I began to think about all of you sisters who have departed from this life who blessed my life so much as a young mother and wife.

Beth Applegate, you taught me about kindness and thoughtfulness. I remember the first baby I had after we moved into this ward. You crocheted a baby blanket of pure white for us. We used it when the baby was blessed and for years after. You always built me up and made me feel like I was smart.

Nelda Spencer, you taught me about serving with a flair. When you were my visiting teacher and I had a baby, you brought the nicest chicken dinner to us. It was served on silver platters and serving dishes. You weren't worried that I wouldn't return them, you just wanted it to look special for us. I remember and cringe every time I take dinner to someone in disposable containers.

Theo Mortensen, you are my dear, sweet, kind friend who always took the time to talk to me. One fun memory of you is when you taught us how to make homemade noodles one night for a mother and daughter Relief Society. Lara was a little girl there with me and you bagged her noodles for her to take home. Sometime that night she misplaced them. You went all over looking for them telling everyone, "This little girl has lost her noodles!" not even realizing what a funny thing you were saying.

Rhoda Winkel, you were the best cook ever. You taught me how to make baking powder biscuits and every time I make them, I think of you. You taught me to remember to always take the time to look nice. You were a classy woman and always a lady.

Mabel Jorgensen, you must have been one of my best friends in the pre-existence who just got to come to earth a few years earlier than I did. Age differences didn't seem to matter with us, we were able to laugh and enjoy so many things together. I really miss you in the fall when we used to do Boutique together. I miss your caramels. I walk past your grave and think of you often.

Devona Jensen, I miss being able to bring my little family over on Christmas eve for a visit. You became a grandma away from home for me. I miss seeing your cute companionship with your husband, Evan.

Thanks for all the kindness and love all of you gave me. I'm not sure I deserved it all, but you gave it freely anyway. And that is really the best thing I learned from all of you. I miss you all. I hope you are having a wonderful time in Heaven spoiling someone else who needs it.