I stepped back into time this last weekend and thought I would share with you some of the thoughts and feelings that flooded over me. It is amazing what the sight of beautiful hills will do to the memory. I lived on Greasy Ridge in southern Ohio in Lawrence County as a child for several years before moving to Columbus when I was in the fourth grade. I climbed the hills to the apple orchards. I ran along Symms Creek and played in its waters. I went to the houses of my great aunts and uncles, ate their cookies and listened to their stories around the fireplaces at night.

I went to church with my cousins every Sunday. Garnet was an old lady even then (at least to me). This past weekend we celebrated her 100th birthday. There were nearly 150 people at the party at Greasy Ridge Church of Christ; most all of them, my kinfolk. There were formal speeches, but I enjoyed the questions and Garnet's answers the best. She quoted so many scriptures. But why should I be surprised, she was reared in the 'admonition of the Lord'. She has remained faithful in the Lord and still worships the Lord.

When asked the reason for her longevity, she responded, "The Lord has given me strength" and when asked, "Does it seem like a long time?" "No, it feels like a vapor which has passed so quickly." "What would you do over?" "Nothing!" "I have loved these hills, I had a wonderful mate and a wonderful son and wife, who looks in on me everyday (she still lives alone). I have a special church family that also looks in on me. I wouldn't change a thing. I have no regrets, the Lord has forgiven my sins every time I've asked. I believe in his promises. Do you?" I was surprised at the little mini sermon, but way-to-go, Garnet!

Only if we all could live so confidently in the Lord! May that be food for thought for you this week, too. I loved seeing those ancient hills and my ancient cousins and yes, even the old Centenery Cemetery where my great-great-great grandparents, Samuel and Eliza Hesson are buried, as well as my great- great- grandparents, and my great-grandparents, George Washington and Melissa Hesson, and my grandparents, Lewyylen and Priscilla Hesson, not to mention, all my great-aunts and uncles and cousins by the dozens. So much history - so much life!

Along with my two sisters, I attended Rome Church of Christ on Sunday where my parents along with four or five other people started that congregation. We were welcomed as the children of Irwin and Claudia Hesson, the founders of that congregation back in the 40's. Well, such a nice introduction, but sad that only one person came up to tell us that they remembered our mom and dad. The church is full of all new people, raising families. Life goes on. But for a small space of time, I revisited life from long ago.

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