Greetings to everyone! This weather is so amazing!! Just shows us that God is in control of all things.

Our hearts are saddened here at the center and throughout the Garland community. We have had a death of our own, Edward McKoy. Edward was a great inspiration around here. He wore so many hats — a veteran, cook, post office worker and musician. He was always ready to do blood pressure checks for the seniors. He was always making goody bags for the Head Start children and giving stars to participants at the center for their monthly donations. He was always on the monthly shopping trips, at the Rotary fair as he wore his uniform so proudly. He will be missed by all and always remembered by those whom he loved and those who loved him. The life he lived will forever speak for him. Rest in peace “Mr. Ed…we love and miss you. Our loss is heaven’s gain.

The new year is going fairly well. Basic computers are going strong. We did not have enough interest in the keyboarding class. It’s free for anyone 65 and older.

Carolina Foot Care will be here Feb. 5. Come get your toenails trimmed and feet checked out. Chris Ingram from Four County will be at the center Feb. 28 to do an energy program. Kim Reid will present safe food handling on Feb. 28 at 10 a.m.

Valentine’s Day is the talk around here already. Come join us for a fun filled day on Feb. 13. We are in need of decorations for that day. If you have got stuff packed up bring it out to share with us. We would love to have some old ones. It’s all about senior fun!!

I was reading this story of a lady with cancer. She was told in 2007 that she only had three months to live. She has been fighting it will all her might. She exercises, prays/surrounding herself with spiritual folk and surrounds herself with nature. She is a fighter!! She said, “I don’t fear death. I just love life.” I think that is a good way to look at death.

Ladies and gents look at age as just a number. Dress up, exercise, eat healthy, enjoy time with friends, and wear your makeup and jewelry. Laugh, love and enjoy the things God has blessed you with. Be thankful and count your blessings. Count everyday above the dirt as a blessing to still be in the life you love.

Today’s final words and thoughts go out to Mr. Edward McKoy’s family. People all grieve differently when someone passes on whether it is heart wrenching tears that keep us from sleeping or making it through the day or whether it is with silence while struggling to hold onto all the good memories. Accept that Mr. Edward McKoy was a good man and he touched so many lives. Accept our condolences and prayers and rest assured you are all in our thoughts and whether we express it to you in spoken words, written words, or silent thoughts, know that all of you are remembered. We all hope you find some peace and comfort in whatever form we grieve with you.

“Death is nothing else but going home to God; the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity.” Mother Teresa

“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.” Eskimo saying.

“Love begins with a smile, grows with a kiss, and ends with a teardrop.” Anonymous

Goodbye Mr. Edward — dear friend, father, grandfather, uncle. We all loved you and will carry on your memory.

Don’t forget to tell the ones you love in your life that you love them.