In June, 1984, we had come to the old home place in Mississippi to spend a little time. As was our custom, we looked for a church to attend. After several visits to different churches we found one where the people were friendly and we felt right at home. After about two visits, one Sunday we sit right behind a certain couple. They turned around in their pew and proceeded to talk to us telling us their names. When I heard that last name I knew I had graduated high school with someone who had that same last name. I asked if they knew this person and the lady laughed and said, "I reckon so. He is our son".

Maw and Pop celebrating her 80th birthday in 1997 with Audis and Ivy.

Our friendship took off from there with this precious couple.

In the Fall, we went back to our home in Louisiana and returned to the home place the following Spring with plans to build a permanent home there.

The friendship with this couple continued and the four of us grew closer and closer. We found out when his birthday was. I remember I baked a cake and made a big banner with the words "Happy Birthday Dad". When they walked in and saw that sign their eyes lit up and I think from that moment on they called us their "adopted children". We started calling them "Maw" and "Pop". It was a special friendship after that. If I felt "down" we would go to their house and I would say, "Maw, I need a hug". That precious lady would put her arms around me and hold me and I could feel the warmth of her love. I could talk to her and share things with her and it felt so good. I always came home feeling better.

"Pop" is so special to us because both my husband and I lost our fathers when we were in our very early twenties. We were so glad to once again have a "Pop" in our lives.

Their birthdays were always special for us as we would have each of them to our house for a birthday supper. I will never forget "Maw''s" birthday in September, 1997. It was going to be her 80th birthday. Her children had planned a special event for her on the weekend. We had her for a meal on her actual birthday. I made several pictures of her and "Pop" sitting on the couch together. Later on I was to be so very glad I did.

Time past and 1998 arrived. We had been gone all day on January 12th. When we arrived home, we received the news that our precious "Maw" had died that day. I thought my tears would never stop. I felt such a big empty hole in my heart knowing I could never again knock on her door and say, "Maw, I need a hug". Somehow it was more difficult for me to get through her funeral than my real Mother's.

We love our "Pop" and he is still with us. He will celebrate his 87th birthday in April.