Greetings. It seems all the fathers around us enjoyed their special Day on June 21. Anyone can be a daddy, but it takes a strong man to fill the role of a father. I was a daddy’s girl; I loved my daddy. He was not perfect by far, but he taught great moral values; he taught us the way of respect; and most of all he taught us about Jesus and love, and treating all people the same.

Now we look to our next holiday, Independence Day. Let freedom ring; God Bless America, my home sweet home.

This week, we had a great presentation by Emily Carlyse from EastPointe – “Women and Depression.” Thank you Emily for sharing. She will be back on July 16, with a new program.

Becky Moser has joined us to play music. What a different music maker! George Monroe and Becky are great musicians.

A special shoutout to Dr. Lattice Mckoy! You are my best supporter; thanks for your encouragement. I like your ideas; I plan to use them later on in the future, especially the storytelling. This will be a great inter-generational program. Thank you again Dr. Mckoy.

Upcoming events: Monday June 29, at 9:30 Juan Langford will be at the Garland Senior Center. He will be presenting several topics most often asked: Estate planning, wills, long term care. It’s free so come on out! EastPointe staff will be here July 16, at the Garland Senior Citizen Center. Board meeting July 16 and a fundraising breakfast. For more information you can contact me at 910-529-3931.

On Friday, July 31, we are sharing a program with Donna Landes, as well as the “Valley of Hope” women’s home. This program is sponsored through the N.C Baptist Association. There were also ladies in ministries from other counties that helped write the project.

We are in need of an ice cream freezer. If someone has one, we will certainly take it. We need one for our July 4th cookout.

Today as Ms. Donna did our decoration, I was impressed. She used a cup of M&M’s, and you know most all of us love M&M’s, to compare the difference in shape, color and size. The story was we are all like M&M’s — the different color signifies that God loves all no matter what color. He can use us in his ministry to reach all folks. Let’s try to apply this in our own lives. God is so good. He loves us so much! Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

As we are surrounded daily with seniors and elders we see and hear so much wisdom and knowledge. Let’s not take it lightly; they are rich! Knowledge and wisdom is precious.

In Timothy he writes, “Let the Elders who rule well be counted worthy of double Honor, especially those who labour in the world and doctrine”. Timothy 5:17

Let’s stay connected to the “Shade Tree of Life” and have a great year neighbors! Love, Live, Laugh.