Monday, March 26, 2007

Forever Friends











After the passing of my Father nearly eight years ago, my little boy was heartbroken. He was only two years old, but even now at 10 he can tell you things he remembers about my Dad. My Dad's very best friend was Sam White. One day when the White's were visiting my Mother, Blake climbed up on Sam's lap and said, "I guess you will have to be my Pawpaw now." This thrilled Sam and he told Blake he would be happy to serve as his Pawpaw. During the years since my Dad died, Sam and his wife, Lil, have proven to be faithful, true friends to my Mother. They frequently call her to see how she is doing and make special trips from Arizona to California to visit. The White's came into town yesterday and are spending a few days with my Mother. Of course, the kids are thrilled - Pawpaw and Grandma White are here!!! I have said all this to get to this point - real, true friends are friends forever.

Here's some snapshots taken tonight of the kids with the Whites.

9 comments:

  1. Oh, Jana this is so neat! I'm glad your kids have the White's for grandparents. They are wonderful people. I've known them all of my life. Thank you for showing the pictures. I haven't seen them in years. Be sure and tell them I said hello.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I remember when Sam White pastored in Bellflower, Ca. There would always be a crowd of children around him when he visited the summer camps. He is a wonderful man and looks like he makes a great pawpaw!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi, Linda - It is wonderful to have the White's here. They are both in their 80's. He is 85 years old and he preached for us this past Sunday night. He still does a good job. However, they are getting more frail and I just can't hardly stand to see their health failing. He just gave us a big scare about a month ago. She is as prissy as ever, but her eyesight is failing. I believe she is 84. She still loves to shop, but she has to have someone with her to tell her prices and make sure the item is okay. They have proven to be true friends to my Mom. A minister's widow often feels lost and completely alone. My parents had about five couples they were really close to, but the White's are the only ones that have continued to befriend my Mom. I love them dearly.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hi, Anonymous. Yes, Bro White loved going to camp. He and my Dad were "partners in mischief" as security at Sr. Camp for many, many years. They were the very best of friends. I love Bro. White and miss my Dad so much. Thanks for dropping by.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Sister Allard, these are great pictures, and I know how much they love your mom, and your family, They were here for Bro and Sis Abbotts anniversary services last year, and I went up to them and told them thank you for being friends to your mom, and for loving your dad, I told them that I started in church in Delano, and they instantly asked about your mom, Sis White spoke Highly of your mom, and said that she wished that Sis Wilson would come to Arizona, and I told your Mom, that I will be willing to come and pick here up, the Whites are awesome. thanks for sharing, and your kids look extremely happy, Love you,

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hi, Cheri. Thanks for dropping by.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Oh, Ronda! Wasn't those old camp days great?!?! I wish we had some more Sam Whites and Paul Wilsons.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Jana:

    I feel for you in the loss of your dad. My dad died very suddenly of a heart attack at age 56 13 years ago. You never stop missing them. I'm so glad the Whites have been there for your Mom and Sam for your son. Have you ever heard the song "Forever Friends" by Sandi Patti? It's from a kids CD called "The Friendship Company". Your post reminds me of that song.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Karen - it is true you never stop missing a deceased loved one. I am so grateful for the White's. Yes, I have heard that song and I have always loved Sandi Patti's voice. Thanks for your comments.

    ReplyDelete