Toni's Tribe
There are a lot of people that love Toni to pieces but that makes keeping everyone updated on her condition a bit difficult.
This page was created to help keep everyone in the loop.
02/03/2023
I saw her bag tonight sitting at the other end of the table. Before I had time to think, I was looking for my Bess Fran. Her little girl (that isn't so little anymore) has been using it. It's bittersweet because it reminds me of her mama but also brings a wave of grief and longing.
Praise God! Daniel baptized Julia this morning after she accepted Christ last night at camp. Her mama would be so thrilled! 💜💜💜
04/07/2022
I'd like to think Toni would be proud of me tonight. The amazing couple that planted these beautiful flowers at our church are out of town for a few weeks and asked me to water them while they were away. My initial thought was of course, anything for these folks because they are simply incredible human beings and I love them dearly. Then I panicked a bit because they obviously don't know my track record with succulents. Nonetheless, tonight I went to water and recieved an unexpected blessing in return.
First, you need to know that several years ago our girl scout troop put in a community garden at FBC-Ferris and Toni was the primary caretaker. Unfortunately when she got ill, we all kind of let nature do its thing and the garden grew into a big pitiful mess of weeds with an occasional carrot or asparagus. Well, the aforementioned couple, decided to something about it. They cleaned out one of the beds, put up edging stones, and planted some lovely purple flowers and transplanted some purple iris in Toni's memory.
While watering Toni's garden tonight, tears began to fall and I mourned. Then I raged because in my eyes this is not the way it is supposed to be-- she was supposed to be here to raise her babies and we're supposed to be able to call each other up when we have a problem or need solid advice from someone who loves Jesus and wants only the best for you. So much pain and anger was poured out in every single sob and tear I cried.
But God didn't let me stay there-- Yes, I sat in my grief and anger for a moment and was allowed to feel the full weight of my emotions but then I felt this overwhelming sense of peace and hope. You see-- No, this isn't the garden we planned for but it is still tended with love and it will be just as beautiful and bring joy. Life will never be the same without my "bess fran", Toni. I miss her every single day but I know without a doubt that she is spending her days exactly where she wants to be-- in the presence of her Lord and Savior. I also know she wouldn't want me dwelling on what can't be but instead living this beautiful messy life that I do have.
The second blessing-- the plants are really thriving and just absolutely beautiful this year. Notice the marigolds? They are indeed exceptional companions. I'm so grateful for the time I spent planted next to my "bess fran" and marigold, Toni.
--💜Melissa