Melvin Baines was, and still is, my hero. He wasn't a perfect dad and made lots of mistakes in his life. He only had an 8th grade education and wasn't a polished man. Dad wanted to go to high school but it was during the Depression. His family had a farm outside Farmersville, IL and needed his help. He quit school to work on the family farm.

Dad proudly served his country in WWII and it was one of the greatest accomplishments of his life. He left his wife and 3 month old son to go to Okinawa Japan for 2 years. Daddy was one of the hardest working men I have ever known. He was a diesel mechanic by trade. I remember many cold IL winter nights when he would get called out to work on a truck that had broken down. He would lay in the snow by the side of the highway to fix this truck to earn money for his family.

What I remember the most is the unconditional love he had for all 3 of his children. He supported and loved us no matter what. When I was a senior in high school and had to tell my dad that I was having a baby he never criticized or got mad. All he said was "I love you girl and I will support you and the baby no matter what." That's just how he was.

In later years. when I moved to Washington, we would visit by phone. We talked every Saturday morning to catch up. I loved those phone calls. He always had a funny story to tell about one of the grandkids and a joke to tell me. What I wouldn't give for one more phone call so we could visit.

I am very lucky to have had him for my dad. I love you Daddy and I miss you so much!! Happy Father's Day!

Back Home

Stephany is back home. She came back on Monday. It's been a rough few days but hopefully she's back on the right track. She goes tomorrow to meet with her group leader to discuss in-patient treatment. We all think that may be the best thing for her right now.

Thank you for your kind words and your prayers! They mean the world to both of us.

Getting Closer

If you look on the left column of my blog you'll see a little ticker counting the days until my new grandbaby arrives! The days are getting close and I'm so excited. Missy and Sammy have decided to name her Emma. I think that is the sweetest name and so old fashioned.

This afternoon is Missy's baby shower and it will be such fun to see all the precious things that she gets for Emma. Nana got her something very special - a keepsake - but I can't share it here yet. I don't want to give the surprise away.

Don't you just love the smell of a baby?? I love to nuzzle my nose in the back of the neck just at their hair line. I've done that with all my kids. I will rock them and nuzzle, breathing in their beautiful baby smell. It's been 11 years since I've been able to do that. I'm getting the rocking chair all warmed up because Emma and I have miles to rock and time spent nuzzling!!

Stephany Update

I feel like all I've been writing on my blog lately are unhappy things. I've always tried to keep it upbeat and happy. But, once again, I am posting asking for your prayers for Stephany.

She was doing very well, started rehab, and I thought things were going along good. But I was being fooled because all this time Stephany has still been using drugs. I knew it in my mind and in my heart but when I would confront her she would tell me lies. Last Monday she was supposed to be at Bible study, left the study to be with friends, and didn't come home all night. Things came to a head today and Stephany ran away from home. This time was different because she left with a full backpack and had planned it. I called the police and they will pick her up if they see her on the street but won't look for her. It's almost 11 pm and I have no idea where my daughter is.

My heart hurts but all I can do is pray for her, for her protection. God knows best and He will see both of us through this time.