Paternal Tribute

Forty-one years ago, I lost my father to cancer. He always said that he lived too soon. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War. He loved photography and would be fascinated by what computers, iPads, and cell phones do today. He took pictures of my high school performances and gave me college acting books. He missed my high school, college, and law school graduations, but I think his spirit traveled with me on those educational journeys and is with me still. On this 100^th post, I cherish the memories of special times we spent together.

Mary Helen Okes

I’m remembering my aunt Mary Helen Okes’ legacy on the anniversary of her birth. After 38 years, she retired as postmaster of the one-person office in Blue Jay, WV. A lifelong Raleigh County resident and member of Blue Jay United Methodist Church, she let children stay in the warm post office until the school doors opened and never betrayed a confidence. If asked to reveal a secret, she replied, “I really couldn’t say.” If someone were mad about something, she said, “They have the same shoes to get glad in.” She loved jokes, puzzles, gospel music, and sharing with others.