One year ago...

Well, tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of my mother's death. I have been pondering the details surrounding her death in the last few days. Remembering where I was, the conversation I had with my dad when he called to tell me of her death, etc. I was at the Soddy-Daisy Wal-Mart in the Christmas section when I received the call. Naturally, I was devastated by the news, but in the midst of all the sadness, I felt God's presence. I felt completely surrounded by His angels b/c when I looked up from the heap I had fallen into after receiving that dreaded call, I saw three wonderful ladies. Not gawking, but offering assistance. One asked me if I needed a ride somewhere, anywhere. I declined but thanked them for the offer. They saw my situation and offered to do whatever they could to help. I deeply appreciate them and their willingness to help me in this hour of desperate need. I managed to pick myself up, holding Em's hand (she was with me, bless her heart) and walking out to the van in the parking lot. Once I got in, I cried some more (not sure for how long) and turned on the iginition for the ride to Mom and Dad's house. It was probably the longest ride to their house in my life.

...the next day, Sunday, Dad and I, along with Dad's brother and his wife, went to the funeral home to make the arrangements. We were there THREE hours. We had not made previous arrangements, so therefore, this took FOREVER. We were so tired afterward. You would be amazed at the amount of details and decisions you have to make. I highly recommend pre-arranging!

The day of the funeral was cold and windy and I watched as the men lowered my mother into the ground, her final resting place. However, I rejoice in knowing this is NOT where she is for she is in Heaven with Jesus! Praise God! She is walking upright with no osteoporosis! No pain! She has been reunion with her mother and sister in Heaven. What a wonderful reunion.

Thanks for your time.
Lee

With great sadness...

Carolyn Emmett Haas, 72, of Hixson, passed away on Saturday, November 3, 2007.

Carol was a native of Ider, Alabama and a resident of the Chattanooga area since 1953. She was a former employee with the Electric Power Board and was a member of Post Oak Baptist church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnnie Lee and Rev. R. H. Emmett and a sister, Myra Austin.

Carol is survived by her husband of 43 years, Jerry Haas; daughter, Lee (Eric) Rogers; two granddaughters, Emily and Rachel Rogers; sister, Lori Hill of Trenton; two nieces and three nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home chapel with Rev. Ralph Long and Rev. Bob Simmons officiating. Burial will be in Hamilton Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday and 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist. Share your thoughts and memories at www.mem.com.

Mother

I have been doing some reminiscing lately in regards to my mother. She has been in declining health for several years now and she is currently at a short term health care facility trying to regain her mobility. I have found it somewhat therapeutic going through some old pictures I have run across, some I have never seen before. It has been a bittersweet journey and I'd like to share some pictures here.

About age 3 (on right)

1998

The sicklies...

Well, it seems all of us have been sick now. R is finally over hers, E came in second and is now finishing up her meds. I caught something as well and have felt awful the last couple of days. This week has been difficult as my mother has been in the hospital. She's being treated for pneumonia but is doing better. Not sure when she'll get to go home yet. I have been going over there this week to make sure she eats lunch. Dad takes care of supper. Friday and today I didn't go because I feel so bad. Mostly a sinus infection, but I also got sick last night. Not quite sure why. Feeling better on that end anyway. Just wish I could get rid of the sinus stuff. NO FUN being sick! Especially when you're MOM. DH has really helped out for which I am thankful.

E has had his own problems this week getting a root canal for his aching tooth. Once he got home he had to go straight back b/c the temporary filling came out. Yes, it's been quite a week in our household!!

We'll have to see what the doctors say regarding Mother. Her dr. is a former classmate of mine. I appreciate your prayers.