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| Celebrated her 90th with just a few of her many many friends |
Part of my life for 60 + years
Starting with Chapter one: In the early '60's I started babysitting for four of the McCoy children. They were living in that cute log cabin near Lake Washington. That was before they started coming to our Beacon Hill meeting room. ( How I met them is another story ) I was there the night that Layle was born, that stands out as special memory. Life was busy for Bel. She set an example for me that I will always hold on to. Not sure when the move came to the big house on Beacon Hill ( ?) but I am sure that I had dinner around that table more than once, In fact, I remember opening our wedding gift there.
Chapter two: l971 we got married and a whole new world began. We keep our friendship going but at a different level. The McCoy household now ..Grant, Scott, Joyce, Sarah, Layle, Vauna and Merry Merry. I cannot say them as fast or with the second name, like Bel, but those names roll off my tongue very easily. The Tanner household grew too. Our families were together every Sunday, and Wednesday evening, now in Kirkland. I could look across the room and always see a smile on Bel's face.
McCoy weddings were a special event ( yes I do love weddings ) and two stand out. Sarah wore my dress for her wedding garment. Another wedding, I was one of two friends that Bel picked out to come to the ceremony.
Chapter three; Now our kids were all pretty much grown up and the four of us, Sam and Bel, Darrell and me, went out to dinner and a "travel adventure" about 6 times a year. In those days, the World Cavalcade shared movies the professional folks made of places around the world. We had great times together. Bel and I had time to talk, one on one, and share stuff .. Telling anything and everything and feeling safe.
Chapter four: Sort of a misty line when life's shifted... Bel was always very close to her family. Especially those girls. I loved seeing pictures of them gathered for a birthday or maybe no reason at all, except for good food. Pretty sure all the daughters got that gift. But she only loved dark chocolate. (that is another story ) I was blessed to spend time around that little table at her last address and yes, brought home a bouquet and cookies. ( have the macaroon recipe in her handwriting in my recipe file ) Those times were always sprinkled with laughter, scripture and maybe a few tears. Bel was genuine. She really loved people. She really loved the Lord. And I know she really loved me.
Final chapter; Due to the restrictions in 2020, I did not see Bel very much after her birthday. We played Words With Friends, and chatted now and then on the phone. I can't remember the last time I hugged her ( though I hugged Merry Merry at West Port ! in January - no masks)
But, the last time I saw her, she was reclining and her eyes were closed. I sang a few hymns to her, tucked a little teddy bear in her hand and said goodbye. A few days later she was lifted up to glory. It was her time, though hard not to be sad. There is great comfort knowing that I will be joining her when my time comes.
The Memorial was so personal, so Bel. Well done !
No I did not get to attend, my Anita represented our family, but the message was on line, And we have listened more than once.
My tribute to Bel is as much a family story, but that was Bel, family , family together, so loved.
Behold, thou hast instructed many, and hast strengthened the weak hands. Thy words have upholden those that are falling and strengthened the feeble knees. Job 4;3 & 4
Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.
John 3:16 For God so loved that world ( you and me ) that he gave his only Son, Jesus, and whoever believes in Him has everlasting life
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