For Ellen Rachel McConnell Blakeman (Ellen)

It's hard to believe that it's only been six days since I received this notification on Facebook:

"SUN 3:14PM
Douglas McConnell
Patricia - give me a call when you get the chance. Hope all is well."

I phoned Douglas McConnell immediately, and he gave me the heart breaking news that his sister, Ellen had died. She can be seen in the image above in a photo that was taken many years ago.

I've known Ellen since childhood and I'm heart broken.

Doug also informed me of an event taking place in her honor (today) and extended an invitation, but I'm not in a position to travel to Illinois.

In any event, I initially met Ellen in the third grade and we went through elementary school, as well as high school, together.

We reconnected in the late 1980's or early 1990's and we stayed in touch touch via handwritten cards, as well as letters, and phone convos ever since.

The last time that I spoke with her was not so long ago and she was thrilled to be having a "date" with her son, Bennett.

She continued to be enthused about my book, Words In Our Beak Volume One, and was, as she's always been, convinced that it makes a great gift.

It's safe to say that Ellen was one of Cam's (the cardinal who is the protagonist and narrator of the story) biggest fans.

Therefore, Cam and I are dedicating volume two to Ellen Rachel McConnell Blakeman.

I already miss Ellen so much and feel blessed to have had her as a friend for so many years, for as it has been written, "a faithful friend is a sturdy shelter... whomever finds one, finds a treasure..."