Life’s gotten a lot better since I adjusted my social media algorithms. I was overwhelmed with negative news, people’s opinions, and ads for stuff I don’t need. I changed some settings, and now my feed feels lighter, brighter, and oddly peaceful. It’s amazing what happens when you stop doomscrolling and start hobbyscrolling.
My formula is simple: less news, more dachshunds and motorcycles. Add in a few home repair experts, and I’m all set. My previous feed was quietly separating families and friends into different groups. Algorithms are like precise little mapmakers, showing who sees what—they identify and categorize your interests and then boost your feed with more of the same.
Here’s how it happens: You love grilling, so you click, like, and comment on a pork rub recipe. Days later, you find yourself in a conversation with someone who thinks your brown sugar and cayenne pepper ratio is somehow offensive. You’re called a name, you reply peacefully, but suddenly you find yourself in the Facebook fight of your life. You leave the group, and because algorithms monetize disagreements, all you see afterward are ads for grills, meat tenderizers, and BBQ aprons with seriously bad puns.
Alison has also modified her relationship with social media, but she’s taken the "cold turkey” approach. After giving her family and friends a heads-up, she deactivated her accounts and deleted apps — no news, no scrolling, no rabbit holes. She traded scrolling time for “in real life” projects. So far, so good. We now have a freshly repainted bedroom, and she says my office is next.
I support her decision. But here’s my dilemma: When my friendlier algorithm finally shows me the Holy Grail of social media posts — a dachshund riding a motorcycle. Who am I supposed to share it with?
Dave Miller Publisher & Back40 Design President
A Stage for Growth Youth Theater Blends Faith, Talent, and Community
By Taylor Bollinger
When siblings Tyson Woodard and Ally Cole dreamed up Edmond Youth Theater in 2023, they weren’t driven by profits or prestige. They simply wanted more of what influenced them as children: Christ-centered theater that provides young people with a safe space to grow.
“We did years and years of theater with a homeschool group,” Tyson said. “And we wanted more of that for our community. We didn’t realize how huge the demand was until our very first camp had a waitlist.”
The feedback only reinforced what they suspected. Families in Edmond appreciate opportunities where kids can learn, perform, and feel encouraged. From the start, Edmond Youth Theater set itself apart by prioritizing accessibility: Rehearsals are held just once a week, productions are often donation-based, and Tyson himself chooses not to take any income from the program.
“This is the type of work that gives me life,” he explained. “I’ll get off work, hole up at a coffee shop, and block scenes. It doesn’t feel like a burden, I love what I do.”
Tyson balances his role as artistic director with a full-time IT career. As a mom of young children, Ally has stepped back from daily operations but still contributes to the vision. “She planted such great seeds for how things are run,” Tyson said. “I definitely carry a lot of what I learned from her.”
Tyson’s own training came from a mix of natural talent and early opportunity. A mostly self-taught performer, he earned a full scholarship to an OKC Ballet intensive, later trained with OU
faculty, and by his sophomore year had made a professional debut at the Civic Center in Newsies. He knows firsthand what excellent training can unlock, and he insists on offering the same level of rigor to his students.
“We don’t sacrifice technique, hard work, or professionalism just because it’s gospel-centered,” he said. “In fact, it raises the standard. Our lives should be marked by excellence.”
For Edmond Youth Theater, every production is more than entertainment. “God is a storyteller,” Tyson said. “Every role matters in the story, even the ensemble. That’s what we want kids to see: Everyone has a purpose, both on stage and in life.”
The group’s next show, Mary Poppins, will be performed on January 17 at Oklahoma Christian Academy with “pickyour-price” tickets. It’s another chance for the community to experience what makes Edmond Youth Theater unique.
Looking ahead, Tyson dreams of expanding classes to accommodate more students and offer age-specific instruction. “Right now, I’m just thankful for the spaces we’ve been able to use,” he said. “But the goal is to have a space where anyone in Edmond can come and be part of something bigger.
For Tyson, it all comes back to one simple mission: “We get to use our gifts for God. Theater is just the tool. The real story is the growth, the faith, and the community we’re building.”
Watch for ticket links, updates and more on Facebook or Instagram @EdmondYouthTheater.
Photos by Tyson Woodard
Emma Elle’s Italian Kitchen
By Laura Beam
Just a quick drive on the Kilpatrick Turnpike from Edmond to the west side of OKC, a delicious taste of Italy awaits. Anchoring the corner of a modern shopping development, Emma Elle’s Italian Kitchen towers with floor-to-ceiling glass and sleek lines. Welcoming guests with its smart, yet cozy feel, the restaurant’s easy demeanor makes the spectacular food that much more enjoyable. Superbly crafted pastas, sauces, pizzas, breads, and balsamics create a dining memory that will keep you returning for seconds. But don't get hooked on one dish too long–this menu is brimming with must-tries!
The Man, the Mission, the Magic
Though Cameron Wilson didn’t know his banking and construction backgrounds would ever find him contemplating how to make the most remarkable fried risotto cheese ball, by 2021, he was ready for a new venture. An avid entrepreneur and food lover, he knew the restaurant path made sense. "I’m into local restaurants, local designers, and I’m a big fan of Italian food." Cameron had watched the development grow at the intersection of the Kilpatrick Turnpike and Route 66, noting the success Summer Moon Coffee had already enjoyed there, so it was an easy "yes" for the restaurateur-to-be. Now celebrating its third year, Emma Elle’s bustles with delighted diners who can’t get enough of the flawlessly planned and plated dishes.
Feast Your Eyes
A highlight at Emma Elle’s is the pizza oven made in Italy. Not only does it amp up the ambiance, but at a top temperature of 900 degrees, it cooks pizza in 90 seconds, delivering a perfectly charred and chewy crust. With a dough recipe from an Italianborn friend whom Cameron met during his time in Los Angeles, the Neopolitan-inspired pizzas are always a crowd-pleaser. “Because the pizza is light, yet flavorful, you can eat a lot and not need a nap afterward,” Cameron laughs. A favorite is the artisan pepperoni with serrano-infused honey.
The house-made bread, complimentary with each meal, is served with a 10-year-aged balsamic that will forever spoil you. “It’s the balsamic for those who think they hate balsamic,”
Cameron chuckles. Another appetizer, the Arancini, is a satisfying comfort bite with creamy risotto and fresh mozzarella, hand-battered and fried, served with garlic aioli. Fantastic!
For pasta lovers, the spaghetti tossed in homemade Bolognese sauce made with pork and imported spices is a top choice. If you’re in the mood for fettuccine with one of the best Alfredo sauces ever, be sure to get the fried chicken topper. Battered just before frying, it is out-of-this-world delicious. The house-made Nichiyobi-Wagyu meatballs are also a menu fave. Decadent desserts are the perfect finish, including unique treats like the luscious lemon bar and oatmeal cream pie. Ask about the off-menu cannolis, too!
Picked to Please
Emma Elle’s prides itself on a tasty array of gluten-friendly, vegetarian, and vegan options. Optional gluten-free pasta, pizza, table bread, and desserts give the whole family delicious choices. Quality runs deep throughout the menu, and many ingredients are locally sourced, like the beef from Arcadia. That enduring sense of community and partnership with local brands is a driving force for Emma Elle’s, in and out of the kitchen. “Many of our staff grew up here and have roots in our community. From the high school student getting their first job, to the seasoned staff, they’ve all helped pull off the vision for the restaurant,” Cameron says.
Dine at 4401 Grant Blvd., Yukon, or visit emmaelles.com for hours and great weekly specials!
LAURA BEAM
Account Executive, editor, and writer with experience in radio, newspaper and magazines. Interested in what Outlook can do for your business?
Email laura@edmondoutlook.com.
One in Eight Awareness and Action Save Lives in Oklahoma
By Taylor Bollinger
Just over two years ago, Summer Baker’s life changed with a simple gesture. She brushed her arm across her chest and felt a knot. By morning, she noticed dimpling. Tests confirmed her worst fear: stage 3 breast cancer.
“It was the size of an apple,” she recalled. “I felt really afraid. My mom had breast cancer before, so I pretty much panicked.”
But Summer happened to work with the husband of Toni Hahn, president of Breast Cancer Survivors Oklahoma, so she knew exactly who to call. “Breast Cancer Survivors Oklahoma sent me a care package right away. Everything I needed—a head scarf, ChapStick, a quilt, even a shirt with pockets for my drains after surgery.”
A wife, mother to boy-girl twins, parent of a high school senior, and full-time employee, Summer suddenly found herself fighting the battle of her life. She endured 16 rounds of chemo, including four sessions of the dreaded “red devil,” 25 rounds of radiation, a double mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. She lost her hair, her energy, and some friendships along the way. But she also gained something unexpected: a family of survivors.
Today, Summer serves as a board member and event coordinator for Breast Cancer Survivors Oklahoma (BCSOK), ensuring that no fighter feels alone. “When you find out you have cancer, you lose people in your life,” she explained. “But other fighters understand. The looks you get, the exhaustion, the fear. They’ve lived it.”
President Toni Hahn shared, “Breast Cancer Survivors Oklahoma is a volunteer-led organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by breast cancer. Our initiatives include care packages, free transportation to and from treatment appointments, and weekend getaways for stage 4 patients. We ensure that every donation we receive
goes toward fulfilling our mission.”
“Our members pay nothing,” Summer reinforced. “From monthly sister socials to our yearly dinner and dance, it’s all about support, connection, and lifting each other up.”
The organization also raises awareness through events like the 5K on October 4, the PINK about US! Dinner and Dance on October 18, and a fashion show on October 25. But awareness alone isn’t enough, Summer insists. “What’s important is action. Check yourself. Get your mammogram. If your insurance doesn’t cover it, we’ll help.”
When you find out you have cancer, you will lose people in your life. But you find a new family, too.
The statistics are sobering. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Like Summer, many won't have symptoms until the disease is advanced. “Life is short,” she said. “Check your boobies.”
For Summer, the fight isn’t over. She’s still on medication and hormone shots for at least five years. But her perspective has shifted. “It’s a club you don’t want to join,” she said, “but it’s an amazing one to be in.” And finally, “Friends don’t let friends skip a mammogram.”
For more information or to get involved, visit BCSOklahoma.com.
Breast Cancer Survivors Oklahoma organization members.
A Moment in Time A Thunder Tribute on Route 66
By Taylor Bollinger
On the side of an empty building next to Sunnyside Diner, a new mural is turning heads and drawing visitors. Painted by Edmond artists Mandolyn White and Cread Bayliss, A Moment in Time depicts Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander glancing back at the Oklahoma City National Memorial during the team’s championship parade. The image, based on a viral photo by Jimmy Do, has already become a popular destination along Route 66.
The project was funded through Edmond Visual Arts Commission’s mural matching program, which connects business owners with artists. “We were approached by the city of Edmond,” Cread said. “They thought we’d be a great fit for the project.”
For both Mandolyn and Cread, the path to this wall began long before they met. Mandolyn grew up surrounded by creativity–her grandfather enrolled her in summer art camps, her uncle was an oil painter, and her dad built custom motorcycles, a craft that introduced her to airbrushing. She got her first airbrush at 12 and began customizing sneakers, fueling a love of painting that only grew over time. “This mural was a really cool, full-circle moment for me personally since I graduated from the same high school and grew up in the same town as two of the current Thunder players.”
Cread’s artistic journey began in Edmond public schools and continued at the University of Central Oklahoma. Along the way, working in a body shop and painting motorcycles honed his skills with spray paint and airbrush, a connection he and Mandolyn would later share.
finished the massive piece in just three days. They used their signature “doodle grid” technique, covering the wall with shapes and scribbles before sketching the approved design over it. “It looks like tagging at first,” Cread explained, “but once we overlay it on our iPads, it keeps all the proportions right.”
Once the Thunder won, it shifted overnight. Everyone in the city felt that energy, and we wanted to capture it.
The mural now features an official Route 66 badge, marking it as a national stop for travelers. “It brings people to Edmond, but now it’s also a destination,” Cread said. Visitors from across the country have already shared photos of the artwork on social media as part of their road trips.
After they met, Cread quickly introduced Mandolyn to the mural medium. “I had never done one before,” she said. “He taught me immediately, and we ran with it.” Since then, they’ve developed a rhythm that shows in every piece. “Once we’re on the wall, it’s almost unspoken,” Cread said. “We know where to start, and both hands are in every part of the piece.”
That teamwork is evident in A Moment in Time. At first, the theme wasn’t set. “We knew it would tie into Route 66 somehow,” Mandolyn said. “But once the Thunder won, it changed overnight. Everyone in the city felt that energy, and we wanted to capture it.”
Working nights under the light of the moon, the duo
Beyond its popularity, the mural reflects the couple’s collaborative rhythm. “We’ll trade designs back and forth until we meet in the middle,” Cread said.
Mandolyn’s lettering provides the final touch to the work. “Her penmanship is really strong,” Cread added. “We both knew she should own that aspect of the mural.”
The artists say the process was just as meaningful as the final product. Families in the area stopped by with food, water, and even helped with the doodle grid. “A lot of kids wrote their names on the wall before we painted,” Mandolyn said. “So no matter what, their names are always there.”
For Edmond, A Moment in Time isn’t just a mural. It’s a snapshot of community, unity, and the thrill of a championship, painted permanently in the heart of town.
Artists Cread Bayliss and Mandolyn White
The Long Road Back in a '52 Chevy
By Taylor Bollinger
Paul Davenport wasn’t looking for anything revolutionary when he bought a rusted-out 1952 Chevy he discovered in a Tecumseh field. At the time, he just needed a break from a “basket case” ‘49 he was rebuilding. But what started as a Craigslist find eventually carried him thousands of miles— and through a tough season of loss.
“It had been sitting since the 80s,” Paul said. “The guy told me it purred when he parked it.” Spoiler alert: It did not. But it did have potential, and Paul had the know-how to bring it to life. When asked how he acquired the skills to restore a car far outdating himself, he laughed, “That’s just how I do stuff.”
What began as a goal to “just get it drivable” turned into months of work: new fuel lines, brake lines, wiring, tank, rebuilt carburetor—you name it. “I’ve always liked working with machines,” he said. “I’m not much for the ‘car guy’ scene, but I like the hands-on part.”
The timing of the build turned out to be significant. The pandemic years brought profound personal loss for Paul, and he found himself needing a path forward. His boss recognized this as well, and in 2021, he subtly sent Paul on a “professional” mission to visit the company’s steel plants across the country.
Paul agreed, but bypassed his boss’s suggested modes of travel. I told him, “I’ll go. But I’m driving the Chevy.”
So off he went, traveling through Edmond to Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, along the East Coast, across the Carolinas, and into Virginia. No air conditioning or cruise control. No podcasts or phone calls. Just him, the road, and a few gallons of emergency gas, thanks to an East Coast fuel shortage.
“There’s something about being in an old car,” he said. “It’s all manual. You feel everything. You hear everything. You’ve got 13 hours of driving, so eventually you start working through things in your head.”
He’s since driven the car across the country, including to the Rockabilly Weekender in Vegas, a road trip that took him through Bryce Canyon, St. Louis, and one temporary crisis when the Chevy sank into Death Valley's silt. “It’s not a show car,” Paul said. “But it’s mine.”
His girlfriend came along for one of the longer hauls. “She was checking flights home by day two,” he joked. “But we made it.”
Along the way, people connected with the car. “It’s an old man magnet,” he laughed. “Guys came up and said, ‘I had one in high school!’ Or, ‘Thanks for bringing back those memories.’”
In those 33,000+ miles, Paul has mastered the lost art of being alone with one’s thoughts. And he’s not finished yet. He says the car isn’t either. “That’s part of the beauty,” he explained. “There’s always something to tweak or improve.” And for Paul, there’s always another road trip to take.
Follow Paul’s journeys on Instagram @LostSuperHighway.
Paul Davenport
From Edmond to the Island Kristina Mills Competes on Survivor
By Taylor Bollinger
Most moms face tough challenges: juggling work, family, and maybe the occasional soccer practice meltdown. Kristina Mills signed up for something a little more intense. The 36-year-old mom, Edmond resident and MBA career coach joined the cast of Survivor Season 49.
“I wanted to return to myself,” Mills said. “I have two kids, 4 and 5, just ten months apart. I lost my mom, went through postpartum, and I felt like they deserved more than I was giving. I could either stay stuck or challenge myself and come out the other side happier, healthier, and more present for them.”
She was watching Season 45 with her husband when the idea sparked. “There were two contestants, Caleb and Emily, and I really saw their journey,” she said. “I was in a dark spot in my life, and it gave me hope. I thought, maybe I should go on Survivor too.”
That thought turned into action. Mills applied once, then again after life threw her curveballs. Soon, she was swapping her office chair for a bamboo shelter.
Her preparation process was equal parts physical and mental. “I was most concerned about the physical part,” she said, laughing. “You can’t tell now, but I used to be a cheerleader. At 36 and after two kids, you lose a bit of that. Mentally, I felt ready. I love puzzles, and I had a great village at home taking care of my kids, so I wasn’t worried about them. Physically, I wanted to see how far I could push myself.”
Her biggest strategy didn’t involve fire-starting skills or secret alliances. It came down to people. “My secret weapon is that I get along with literally anybody,” she said. “In my job, I work with people from 19 to past 60, from all kinds of backgrounds and beliefs. That’s been huge in building relationships, and I think it carried over out there too.”
As for what viewers won’t see? Mills wishes they could feel the reality of the environment. “You hear people joke that maybe contestants get food snuck in,” she said. “But no. It’s real. You’re not eating unless you catch it. I’d never even been camping before, so that was a whole other challenge.”
When asked to define a win in her book, Kristina laughed, “Of course a million dollars would be nice. But the real win was personal. I always felt like I had this invisible weight on me,” she said. “I wanted my kids to see it lifted. I wanted to come back a different person. That’s the real prize.”
Fans can watch her journey unfold when Survivor Season 49 premieres September 24 at 7 p.m. Central on CBS and Paramount+.
“I’m just excited to tune in with everyone else and watch the adventure we went through,” Mills said. “It was real, it was raw, and I’m proud to represent my family, as well as Edmond and OKC.”
Photo credit: Robert Voets/CBS
Local Medicare Advisors
Medicare can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Local Medicare Advisors, led by independent brokers Stephenie Woody and Andy Archer, are dedicated to guiding Oklahoma seniors through every step of the process. With more than a decade of combined experience, they focus on one thing: helping you find the plan that fits your life best.
Personal, Local Support
Unlike national companies advertising on TV, Stephenie and Andy are licensed with all the Medicare insurance providers in Oklahoma. That means they don’t just push one
product—they listen to your needs, explain your options in plain language, and help you choose coverage that makes sense for you. “What works for your Aunt Jill may not be right for you,” says Andy. “Medicare is not one-size-fits-all.”
Stephenie, who has a background in education, says helping seniors is the most rewarding work she’s ever done. “I love educating people about Medicare. It brings me joy to help them feel confident in their decisions year after year.”
Enrollment and Beyond
The annual Medicare enrollment period runs October 15–December 7, but their commitment to clients extends all year. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time, reviewing your current plan, or adjusting coverage as your needs change, they provide ongoing support—not just at enrollment, but every season.
Stephenie and Andy also stay active
in the community, hosting Turning 65 events and offering educational presentations. “Medicare changes every year,” says Stephenie. “That gives us the chance to review plans, look for savings, and find new benefits like dental or vision. I stay on top of the details so my clients never have to worry.”
Call Andy Archer at (405) 808-2904 or visit andyarchermedicareadvisor.com or call Stephenie Woody at (405) 830-4966 or visit stepheniewoodymedicare.com.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Andy Archer and Stephenie Woody
Arbor Image Tree Care
Founded in 2010, Arbor Image Tree Care started with a simple passion—caring for trees the right way. What began as a small local business has grown into a respected leader in the tree care industry, attracting some of the nation’s top arborists. Known throughout the region for advanced equipment, safety standards, and a firm commitment to tree preservation, Arbor Image has transformed how Oklahomans think about tree care.
“Trees are often the largest investment in a landscape,” says Shaun Sykes, General Manager & ISA Certified Arborist. “We’ve built our business around protecting that investment while keeping our neighborhoods safe and beautiful.”
Arbor Image provides a comprehensive
range of services, including pruning, removals, planting, tree health care, and longterm preservation plans. Unlike companies that simply cut or “top” trees—practices that can weaken structure and storm resistance—Arbor Image focuses on structural pruning. This technique trains trees to grow strong, healthy, and storm-resistant, minimizing the risk of damage during Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather. “When trees fail in storms, it’s often because of poor health or bad pruning practices. Our goal is to prevent those headaches before they happen.” said Shaun.
service plan. “We know if we help select, plant, and care for the tree, it can stay healthy for life,” they explain.
Community impact is central to Arbor Image’s mission. Besides helping homeowners, the team volunteers time and expertise to schools, parks, and local families, making Edmond’s neighborhoods greener, safer, and more welcoming.
Looking ahead, Arbor Image is excited to introduce its Lifetime Warranty on Tree Installations. This exclusive program offers a lifetime guarantee on any tree installed by Arbor Image when combined with a
With over 300 five-star Google reviews and recognized as one of only four TCIA Accredited companies in Oklahoma, Arbor Image has established a reputation for expertise, trust, and passion.
For Arbor Image, tree care is more than just a business—it’s a calling. Their mission is clear: to preserve trees, protect landscapes, and keep Oklahoma greener for future generations.
To promote your business with a BIZLOOK feature, contact Laura at laura@edmondoutlook.com.
Arbor Image Tree Care Specialists
David Greyson From Pre-Med to the Big Screen
By Taylor Bollinger
Fifteen years ago, David Greyson believed his future lay in medicine. As a pre-med student at the University of Oklahoma, he was overwhelmed with 18 credit hours and was quickly burning out. His adviser suggested a creative outlet. “She signed me up for Acting for Non-Majors with Daryl Cox,” Greyson recalled. “I didn’t think it would be very fun. Within a few classes, I was obsessed.”
Raised by two doctors, Greyson knew his career shift would be met with raised eyebrows. “For the first half, they thought it was a phase,” he said with a laugh. “To two doctors, it was like saying I wanted to be a bum for the rest of my life.” But as roles and paychecks added up, no one could deny the reality of Greyson’s successful acting career.
Greyson’s first year of acting earned him a lead role in an amateur film. The production was rough, but the experience solidified his passion. “When you receive pushback and don’t let it break you, when you hit the bottom and bounce back, that’s when you know you’re probably onto something,” he said.
The climb was slow. Greyson spent years in short films, background roles, and stand-in work. He even had a stint in Los Angeles, where one of his last gigs was standing in for Andy Samberg at the Emmys. “Getting to be in a room like that right before I left LA was the shot of motivation that I needed to keep going.”
His persistence paid off. Through roles in projects like Sherwood Forest and A Thousand Tomorrows, Greyson built his
credibility and eventually earned SAG eligibility. And in a twist of irony, the would-be doctor ended up co-starring in the Lifetime movie Looking for Dr. Love. “The moment I filled out my taxes and wrote ‘actor’ as my occupation, that’s when it hit me,” he said. “This is my career.”
Now, Greyson is preparing for his biggest role yet: a leading part in the upcoming film Minding Your Business, which premieres on AppleTV and Prime on October 3rd. He describes it as the culmination of years of faith, work, and perseverance.
Along the way, he’s also created his own opportunities by co-writing and filming a comedy pilot on a shoestring budget with his friend Phil Redburn. “Had we sat there waiting for a pilot to come to us, who knows how long it would’ve taken,” he said. “And the cool thing is, it’s creating jobs and credits for other aspiring industry members—it’s raising all the ships!”
Through it all, Greyson maintains his perspective. “Acting highlights your weak spots. It’ll make you question if you’re good enough. But the only people who survive are the ones who lean into it,” he said. “Stay the course. Trust that what you bring is unique. There’s only one you.”
From a crowded OU classroom to the big screen, David Greyson is proof that perseverance and passion can carry a dream all the way to Hollywood. Keep up with his work on Instagram at @MrDavidGreyson.
David Greyson and Clarissa Cozzoni in Minding Your Business premieres October 3rd on AppleTV and Prime.
SURVIVOR!
By Louise Tucker Jones
If there is one thing I never expected to be known as, it’s a “survivor.” Yet I feel it on this third anniversary of my son, Jay’s journey to heaven. I still look for him and miss him every minute of every day. Having Down syndrome, Jay spent all of his 46 years at home, the last eleven were just the two of us with my husband, Carl already in heaven.
Most of us use the term “survivor” loosely because it can mean a number of things. Surviving a car wreck, a medical prognosis and more. But there are personal losses that also cause untold trauma in our lives.
I survived the death of my 3-monthold son, Travis, many years ago. It
changed me forever. I watched my emotionally-scarred, adopted daughter walk away from anyone who loved her, until weeks before her death.
I experienced the horrific loss of my husband of 45 years. My children’s father. Then in September, 2022, I grieved the deaths of both my mother and my youngest son, Jay.
I don’t write this for sympathy or out of some egotistical tribute. I believe we are all survivors on this life journey. Our stories are different. Some are even hidden. Betrayal. Abuse. Addiction. Circumstances no one knows about. Survivors just the same.
Years ago, I battled through months of clinical depression and panic attacks. I’ve undergone surgeries in the double digits, and this month I proclaim myself a one-year breastcancer survivor. A huge, “Praise the Lord!” So very thankful!
I share this to show that sometimes the person walking right beside you or sitting across the table may be a survivor. The teacher, nurse, construction worker, even that sales person who was rude to you. We can’t see behind their demeanor. We
don’t know their losses or what horrific memories haunt their minds or hearts.
And though I’m thankful to be a survivor, I still desperately miss my sweet, son, Jay as well as my husband since their heavenly journeys. It’s hard! But I also believe that God wants me to “thrive,” as well as “survive,” on this earthly pilgrimage. I wish you the same.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Louise Tucker Jones is an award-winning author, inspirational speaker & founder of Wives With Heavenly Husbands, a support group for widows. LouiseTJ@cox.net or LouiseTuckerJones.com.
Jay and Carl
a look back Halloween
Steve and Lisa Milligan and Steve and Linda Slawson attend a Halloween party in 1994. The Milligans are dressed as the Clampetts from The Beverly Hillbillies TV show and the Slawsons are dressed as Fred and Wilma Flintstone from the Flintstones cartoon.
