Though it’s Sunday, I am up early this morning brewing a pot of coffee & enjoying the pre-Sunrise quiet before Jaiya & Justis spring alive!:-)

As I sit here, enjoying my home & the serene vibe I can’t help but speak what my heart is saying, I am so thankful for my community of friends — which without a doubt includes you.

The past 2 years have been the roughest ever for me & without the support of my friends, I honestly don’t believe I would have made it.

I’ve decided to write a book to tell my story. I believe the Creator allowed me to experience these challenges so that I could not only grow from the learned lessons, but so that I could share the story with others who find themselves in similar circumstances. I hope they use it as a tool to beat-back hopelessness.

Over the coming months you will learn just how dear @LAfricana has been to me & how a TRUE friend steps-up in a time of need. I do not believe there is anything Toni could ask of me that I would not move heaven & earth to do. She is more than friend — she is family, my Sister.

This Genealogy community came at a time when I needed distraction [from life's reality] & connection — thank God I found both!:-)

You folks have encouraged me through my Son’s kidney transplant & my Mom’s formal diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease.

As we share a mutual plight, @GeneaBloggers never fails to check in on how Mom & I are doing. And though there is nothing any of us can do, it’s comforting having a friend offer all the same.

If I am “blog-free” for too long, I can expect a check-in email from @NadaSue, @Sjtaliaferro, @Matfam42 & @NCChemist — telling me that I am way too quiet & making sure that I am OK.

Then TONS of you check-in here at OGR regularly & allow me to just be me — sharing my pointed opinions about whatever I choose (smile) & my deep love for family history.

For a girl who is absent of a strong family base, friendship & community mean EVERYTHING to me. I am so thankful to be walking this journey with you…

Uh-oh… I just heard “Mooommm” from the staircase — looks like quiet time is OVER!:-)

Thanks for putting up with me GeneaTweeps, consider this a big ole eHug!

Luckie.