Photo by Zachary Dailey
West Georgia Women's Extravaganza
A Month of Celebrations
May is a very busy, but special month for me. Both of my children and my daughter-in-law have birthdays in May and, of course, there's also Mother's Day. So that makes it a very busy month for the family. Throw our annual women's event in the mix, and we have little time to do anything but celebrate! I feel so incredibly lucky to be the mother and mother-in-law of these unique and wonderful individuals. My heart is full.
In This Issue
Our feature this month is Diane Gray. When Diane married her husband Mitch in 1979, the couple had no idea how much their lives would change in just a few years. Hydrocephalus took the life of their newborn son, Robert, and the same disorder severely disabled their second son, Alex. But thanks to life-saving surgery while in the womb, Alex was able to live a full and happy life surrounded by his loving family and friends until he passed away at the age of 37.
On page 10, learn more about Diane, her strong support network and how her strength, faith and determination has seen her through the worst of times and the best of times.
In this issue, you'll learn about navigating difficult mother/daughter relationships, ways you can disconnect from technology for a while, tips on how to have a healthy relationship with your mother-in-law and Chef Rose Isaacs' delicious recipes. We've also included the fourth article of our cancer support series written by Patrick Yuran.
Our 5th annual women's event is in just a couple of weeks! We reached 300 preregistered guests the first week of April, and we're excited to have so many of our friends there. The event is Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to noon at City Station in Carrollton, Ga. This event is free to the community, and walk-ins are welcome. Come join us for a few hours of fun and fellowship.
I would like to extend very special thanks to our community partners who are sponsoring the event:
• Tanner Health, Presenting Heroic Sponsor, Coffee, Water, Breakfast and Fresh Fruit Bar Sponsor
• Auto Gallery Chevy, GMC, Influential Sponsor, Beauty Bar (massage and eyebrow waxing) Sponsor and Chef Rose Small Bites Sponsor
• Bain Skincare and Spa, Influential Sponsor and Beauty Bar (hand and scalp treatments) Sponsor
• Spa 3:16, Influential Sponsor
• Addison Smith Mechanical, Inc., Influential Sponsor
• West Georgia Gastroenterology Associates, Influential Sponsor
• Georgia Vision Institute, Empowering Sponsor
• Truffles Vein Specialists, Advocate Sponsor
• Chelle Lamb Mary Kay Sales Director, Advocate Sponsor
• Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley, Advocate Sponsor
• Phillip Hoenig State Farm, Advocate Sponsor
• Avaas Spa and Tan, Advocate Sponsor
All of us at West Georgia Woman look forward to seeing you May 10!
Happy Mother's Day!
Finding our voice. Knowing our value.
Making a difference. TM
West Georgia Woman is a voice for and about the women who live and work in West Georgia.
Our mission is to engage, inspire, and cultivate a cohesive community for all women in West Georgia by sharing our hopes, our dreams and our lives.
This magazine would not be possible without the inclusion of our community advertising partners.
Please be sure to show your support by doing business with these VIPs (very important partners) so we will be able to continue to share with you our stories about amazing West Georgia women!
Please be sure to tell them we sent you!
Inspiring women wanted.
Do you know an interesting woman who should be on the cover of West Georgia Woman? Is there a special project or organization you would like us to feature in our magazine? Let us know! Email your suggestions to features@westgeorgiawoman.com.
Share your special events.
Send your upcoming events to: calendar@westgeorgiawoman.com
Need to advertise? Email:
Andrew@westgeorgiawoman.com
Call 404.984.1353
The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the contributing authors are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Angel Media, LLC., West Georgia Woman magazine or any employee thereof.
Angel Media, LLC. makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information in this publication and will not be liable for any errors, omissions or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.
Mail correspondence to:
West Georgia Woman Magazine
P.O. Box 2782
Carrollton, GA 30112
We welcome your comments and suggestions. Contact us: (404) 502-0251
Online: www.westgeorgiawoman.com Follow us! @WestGaWoman
Need a copy? We mail thousands of copies each month to households through direct mail or get yours from our racks at Smith Brothers Supply Company, Southern Home and Ranch Center, Food Depot (Maple St.), Neva Lomason Library, Professional Park Medical Building, Physicians Care Group of West Georgia and Tanner Health System Medical Pavilion in Carrollton; Piggly Wiggly and CVS in Bowdon, Buchanan, Franklin and Tallapoosa; Higgins General Hospital and Thriftown in Bremen; The Little Giant Grocery in Sargent; Piedmont Hospital, Leaf and Bean Coffee, Crook's Grocery (Temple Ave.) and Lee King pharmacy in Newnan; Tanner Health System's Villa Med and Villa West Office Buildings in Villa Rica; Tanner Primary Care Building at Mirror Lake; Kroger (Highway 5) and Food Depot on Hiram Douglasville Hwy and Highway 5 in Douglasville; Food Depot and Brickhouse Grille in LaGrange; Food Depot (Villa Rica Hwy) in Dallas; Kroger on Ridge Rd. in Hiram; WM Grocery in Roanoke, Ala; Tanner Health System and WM Grocery in Wedowee, Ala. We have them in larger quantities at Publix (Bullsborough Drive), and Thompson pharmacy in Newnan, the Apothecary Shoppe in Douglasville, Publix in New Georgia as well as hundreds of other retail locations and medical offices covering 18 cities in eight counties in West Georgia and East Alabama.
Publisher/Editor
Angela Dailey
angela@westgeorgiawoman.com
Copy Editor
Editorial Contributor
Shala Rathke
shala@westgeorgiawoman.com
Photographer for Cover/ Graphic Design
Zachary Dailey
Editorial Contributors
Sandra Bolan, Jordan Dailey, Rose Isaacs and Patrick Yuran
Advertising Sales
Andrew@westgeorgiawoman.com
West Georgia Woman is a monthly publication of Angel Media, LLC. All contents of this issue are copyright 2025. West Georgia Woman magazine, its logo and “Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.” are trademarks of Angel Media, LLC. All rights reserved.
Print or online reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submissions will be included as space is available.
West Georgia Woman reserves the right to reject or edit any submissions that are not in compliance with our editorial policy. If you wish to have your submission returned, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope along with your submission.
Strength Through Love
Diane Gray reflects on 40 years of caregiving, faith and family
By Shala Rathke
Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography.
Diane Gray may seem like an ordinary woman at first, but she has an extraordinary spirit. In spite of unimaginable loss and taking on four decades of intense caregiving for her son – and now her husband – Diane is the picture of positivity and grace.
Born in Virginia to a military family, Diane, now 67 years old, moved to her parents’ hometown of Gadsden, Ala., when her father retired from the Navy. She went to high school and college there before marrying Mitch Gray in 1979. The newlyweds decided to settle down in Haralson County, Ga., happily preparing for their future family.
A Life Built on Love
Mitch, now known as the voice of University of West Georgia sports, began working on his broadcasting career, and he and Diane welcomed their first child, LaDonna, into the world. Three years later, their world was shaken to its core. Diane gave birth to Robert Mitchell Gray, Jr., only to have him in her arms for 30 short hours.
He was born with hydrocephalus, also known as “water on the brain,” which is where too much cerebrospinal fluid builds up in cavities in the brain called ventricles. The fluid makes the ventricles enlarge, which puts pressure on other areas of the brain, causing damage. Although sometimes treatable, in severe cases, the person may suffer with epilepsy, learning disabilities, memory loss, coordination and vision issues, and death.
The doctors said the condition wasn’t genetic, so Diane and Mitch continued building their family. “When we were pregnant with our third child, we found out that he also had hydrocephalus, and we were very blessed to find doctors that did surgery before birth to relieve the pressure in his brain,” Diane shares. “We knew he would have a lot of challenges in life. But I knew I was willing to do everything I could for my baby and, above all, God was on our side.”
Doctors discovered the diagnosis during an ultrasound. The couple asked Diane’s regular OB/ GYN, Dr. Rick Martin, to help them find options for their unborn son. He came back with something incredible: a research study at the medical school at the University of North Carolina. Their situation was a fit for the study, and they moved quickly to schedule the surgery, which consisted of placing a shunt-like device into the unborn baby’s skull.
The surgery was successful, until partway through the second trimester when Alex grabbed the shunt
and pulled it out of his head. Diane braved the operating room yet again so surgeons could replace the shunt in Alex’s head.
Diane had to return regularly to Chapel Hill, N.C., for follow-up exams. The young couple was just getting started in life, so they definitely didn’t have the kind of money required to fly back and forth consistently. Their church family at the First Baptist Church of Tallapoosa sprung into action with bake sales, singings and special offering requests to help the Gray family save Alex’s life.
Diane went into labor six weeks early – the baby was supposed to be born in North Carolina, but flying a woman in labor was too risky, so the doctors decided to deliver by C-section in Carrollton, Ga. Baby Alex soon moved to Egleston Children’s Hospital in Atlanta, where doctors replaced the shunt. They also diagnosed him with hyaline membrane disease, which can be fatal for newborns, and severe acid reflux.
Deciding on Joy
Although Diane knew Alex was going to need extensive care, she felt up for the challenge, refusing
Diane and Mitch on their wedding day in 1979. Photo: Facebook.
to give up on her son. “I have always depended on my faith to get me through every situation in life, and this was no different,” Diane relates. “Every decision and moment was covered in prayer. But I also knew Alex was my child, and there was nothing I would not do for him. I wanted him to have the best childhood and life that he possibly could, no matter what that looked like. I knew that I was going to do whatever it took to ensure that Alex was taken care of and provided for.”
Diane and Mitch prepared their young daughter early on so she would understand Alex needed extra help and attention. “We made sure she always felt included and special,” Diane remembers.
They decided that although Alex might have special needs, those needs wouldn’t slow them down as a family. “We attended most of the games and traveled with Mitch even though Alex
was on a feeding tube and heart monitor for the first six years of his life,” she shares. “But I refused to let that limit us. We attended church every Sunday, had passes to Six Flags, went bowling – Alex loved every minute of it, and LaDonna enjoyed helping with her little brother. We decided we wanted one more child, and when LaDonna was 14 and Alex was 10, our youngest Elizabeth was born.“
Diane wanted to make sure Alex didn’t feel pushed aside when his little sister was born, but she also knew how much attention a newborn requires. “I told Alex my entire pregnancy that this baby was his, and he would have to help a lot with her,” she says. “When she was born, he stepped right into his role as a big brother. We set pillows up to assist him to hold her for hours. We have always made family a top priority for us. We love each other and
When Elizabeth was born, Alex stepped right into his role as a big brother. Diane would set pillows up to assist him, and he would hold Elizabeth for hours. Photo: Facebook.
support each other and have always been there for each other.
“My kids were very close and always stepped up and cared for one another. We just learned a dynamic that worked, and that’s how we had to live. Everyone knew the role they had to play, and we were all happy to do so because we loved each other.
“Now, LaDonna is married to Jeff Reece, teaches at Oak Mountain academy and has a 13-year-old named Jacob. Elizabeth is now married to Stuart Herrin. She works at the University of West Georgia in the Athletics Department, and she has an 8-month-old named Grayson Alexander. We have always been an incredibly close family. We love spending time together and always find a way to laugh and have a great time doing so.”
What many people don’t realize about living with and caring for a child with special needs is that the parents can burn out very quickly. Think about duties of parenting without considering a child with special needs – experts say that stay-at-home parenting duties are equivalent to working two and a half jobs, according to Forbes. When you add in upgraded caregiving tasks, sometimes daily doctor’s visits and additional stressors like the need for constant
supervision, just getting up in the morning can feel like too much.
This is due in part to the fact that these parents often don’t get a break – even when they go to work, they know a phone call could turn their day sideways in an instant. It’s difficult to find someone to trust with the child’s needs, and leaving the
Please Help Us Build a Memorial Bench for Dr. Fred Richards
Sculptor Kevin Shunn will be creating a bronze memorial statue of Fred with a bench.
The Carrollton Fraternal Order of Police is collecting donations through its Barry Carroll Foundation for this project.
If you wish to donate to Fred's legacy project, please make your check payable to the Barry Carroll Foundation, with "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the memo line.
Checks can be dropped off at the City of Carrollton Police Department or mailed to:
Barry Carroll Foundation c/o Chief Joel Richards, 115 W. Center St., Carrollton, Ga. 30117.
Or, you may donate through PayPal or Venmo using the QR codes on the left. Please reference the "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the "for" section.
The Gray family left to right: Mitch, Diane, Alex, Elizabeth (back) and LaDonna. Diane says the children always stepped up and cared for one another. Photo provided by Diane.
house to socialize can be incredibly complicated, depending on how much specialty equipment must go on every trip outside the home. Medical studies show that caregivers of children with special needs experience more anxiety and depressive disorders, as well as PTSD similar to what combat soldiers face. Couples with special needs children also have higher instances of divorce.
Diane says she and Mitch recognized this early on, and they made sure to make their relationship, as well as the family unit, a priority.
Diane (left) and her sister Charlotte Longshore with the possum mascot at Tallapoosa, Ga.'s annual New Year's Eve Possum Drop. Diane made the mascot outfit, and she and Charlotte make possum ornaments to sell at this popular event every year.
“Mitch and I were incredibly blessed that we both had wonderful parents who would keep Alex and LaDonna so we had time to ourselves,” she recalls. “We would go to dinner and concerts. We would do weekends away to see the Braves play or to football games, ensuring that we still had time devoted to each other.”
To fill her own bucket of joy, Diane likes to volunteer at church, and she enjoys sewing and crafting. “So, combining those talents, I have helped
see walking around at the Possum Drop,” she shares. “Getting to exercise my creative muscles is an escape for me. I also love to cook. I served at church cooking Wednesday night dinners for years, and now I just love to cook for those who may need a little extra pick me up or who are going through something themselves and need it.”
Advocating for Alex
From before he was born, Diane knew she was going to have to push for what was best for Alex. She was by his side for every surgery, and he had more than two dozen – many of those when he was a baby. Doctors and other people would tell her Alex would never be able to do certain things, but she did not take “no” for an answer.
For example, she asked his doctor for a wheelchair once, and the doctor said Alex would never be able to propel the wheelchair himself. Diane was certain he could, but the doctor did not provide the wheelchair prescription. She took matters into her own hands, and proved the doctor
“I went to a friend who welded, and together we built Alex’s first wheelchair,” she recalls. “We used a combination of a highchair with LaDonna’s old bicycle wheels to make it. Again, I was not going to take ‘no’ as an answer. Alex was non-verbal, and I 770.462.5005
knew that as his mother, I had to be his voice.”
She took him to various therapy sessions, such as speech, physical and occupational. Her goal was to maximize every ability he had so he could live life to the fullest. They moved him to the Central school district in Carrollton, Ga., and the teachers embraced the parents’ ideals. They gave him important tasks to complete, ensuring he felt like a valued member of their school community.
She says a typical day with Alex started very early. “For many years, I owned a daycare center in Whitesburg, Ga., so my day always started at 4 a.m.,” she relates. “I would get both Alex and Elizabeth dressed, pack their bags for school, and we would head out the door in order to be at the daycare and set up and ready by 6 a.m. to open. Alex’s school bus would pick him up at the daycare, and I would have Elizabeth to Oak Mountain Academy by 7:45 a.m. I would work at the daycare all day until we closed at 6 p.m., and then we would typically go meet Mitch at a UWG Athletics event.
“Other than when Alex was at school, I was his primary caretaker. We spent every moment together. I tried to let him be as independent as he could and make his own decisions, but ultimately, I helped him along the way. I cleaned, clothed him and prepared his food. I would have to help transport him from the bed to his wheelchair, and if there were no handicap accommodations, I would carry him upstairs and get him where he needed to go. But everywhere I went, Alex went. We did anything and everything together.”
Mitch often worked off-hours, which made it fun for the family to join him. They often spent time together at events and games as Mitch worked. “Alex was the biggest UWG fan and truly loved being at the games,” Diane shares. “Everyone made him feel special and like he was a part of it. He was able to sit at the scorer’s table and wear a headset to help Mitch broadcast.
“UWG and the West Georgia community have become family to us, and I am so grateful that everyone was able to know Alex and love him like we do. Everyone adopted Alex and had to come get a famous Alex Gray hug when they saw him. He had so many friends, and it made him so happy to see everyone. Being around people and getting to laugh and love on them truly energized Alex, and it was such a joy to experience.”
Alex passed away in November 2021 at the age of 37.
“My world stopped turning when I lost Alex.,” Diane shares. “My life will never be the same. But I
designed to support you every step of the way! GLP-1 medication management involves using glucagon-like Peptide-1 drugs, which have demonstrated effective results in helping individuals achieve their weight management goals by regulating appetite and glucose metabolism.
Imagine transforming your life with a friendly team by your side.
Here’s how our program stands out:
► Customized plans: We will create a personalized plan just for you, helping you achieve your weight management goals in a way that feels right.
► Supportive environment: Our caring team is here to motivate, encourage and support you.
► Focus on healthy choices: Learn practical strategies for incorporating healthier habits into your life, ensuring long-lasting change.
Your journey toward a healthier you starts now!
Contact us at 770-834-6302 or visit tanner.org/weightloss to learn more.
try to still find the joy in life. I have relied on my faith a lot on hard days.”
She remembers how much of an impact Alex had on her life, as well as the people around her.
“Alex had the most infectious smile and kindest heart of anyone I have ever known. He had so much love for everyone around him and you immediately knew the moment you met him. To know Alex was to love him. We tried our hardest to give Alex a ‘typical’ childhood, just as any other child would have. He went bowling, skating and to
the movies, and he enjoyed them all. He attended Central in Carrollton and graduated from there.
“Big opportunities in a community that makes me feel right at home.”
“While there, he even attended prom and took a date, just as any child would. We really tried to not allow Alex’s diagnosis to ever limit him or define him. He was so kind and so very loved by everyone that he lived such a happy and full life.”
Hit with Harder Days
In July 2020, life took a devastating turn: Mitch suffered a severe stroke. They airlifted him to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta with only a 5% chance of survival. “When Mitch had the stroke, my world turned upside down,” she relates. “I remember calling 9-1-1 and standing and watching the helicopter fly away not knowing if I would ever see him alive again. This all happened in the heart of the COVID shutdown, so we were not allowed in the hospital and sat on the sidewalk outside of Grady all night. We received no updates and had no idea what was going on or happening. All we could do was sit and pray. God assured me he would be OK, and when he finally moved to rehab weeks later, I was able to go be with him. I could see it was going to be a long and difficult road ahead, but I have always heard that God does not put more on us than we can handle, and while that is not in the Bible, I do believe that God is with us through everything,
A recent photo of Diane's family left to right: Mitch, Diane, Elizabeth Herrin, Grayson Alexander Herrin (Elizabeth's lap), LaDonna, Jacob (standing) and Jeff Reece. They miss Alex immensely, but the family remains extremely close.
“ As an Investment Advisor Representative with Milestone Investment Management, I am held to a fiduciary standard, meaning that we are committed to placing clients interests ahead of our own. ”
– Michael Stone, AAMS®, PPC®, AIF®, Wealth Manager, Founder and CEO.
Left to right: Jennifer Sauls,
Andrea Stone,
and He will provide the strength I need. I knew when Mitch came home it would be very trying caring for both he and Alex.
“I knew how to care for Alex and was able to lift him and move him. However, Mitch being a much larger man than Alex, I did not even begin to know how to care for him, but knew I had to. I knew he needed to move from the bed to chair and be fed, changed and bathed. I relied on a Hoyer lift, and I learned to push and pull and get it done. In typical Alex fashion, he always would get tickled when he watched me with the Hoyer lift.”
Mitch continues to improve and work toward more independence. She still takes him to physical therapy or speech therapy at least three times a week, and the couple enjoys going shopping, out to eat and to UWG athletic events.
Diane recognizes neither she nor Mitch would be
“Carrollton’s Prescription Headquarters”
where they are today without incredible community support.
“I cannot begin to mention everyone who has helped me the past several years. Without them and this community, I don’t know what I would have done. My daughters, their husbands and my sister have stepped up in so many ways I couldn’t even begin to list them all.
"Julie Cain Law Office in Tallapoosa has helped me in so many ways with forms and documents I needed. Michael (Dr. Michael Poss) has always just been a phone call away for me. His friendship is invaluable to me. He has made so many trips just to check on Mitch and bring us meals. Our church, the First Baptist Church Tallapoosa, stepped in and made so many home renovations to make the house accessible for when Mitch came home. They widened door frames, built a ramp, fixed floors and more. Mitch’s best friends, Denver Morgan and Randy Patterson, have made countless deliveries and always check in on us.”
Wisdom for the Road Ahead
After 40 years of special needs caregiving, Diane knows a thing or two about the challenges. She encourages caregivers to find their village and to not be afraid to rely on them for support and assistance.
“My best advice is to take it day by day, or even on some days, minute by minute,” she advises. “Make the most of the days you have. Find a way to laugh and find joy in the small things and the small victories.
“Some days will be harder than others, but every day is a gift. I think trying to find the positives, and not dwelling on the negatives is so important. Try to find a way to laugh as much as you can every day, and know that tomorrow is always a new day that holds new possibilities.” WGW
Diane, with her sister Charlotte. She says her daughters, their husbands and her sister have stepped in to help her over the last several years in numerous ways.
Navigating Difficult Mother/Daughter
Relationships
By Sandra Bolan
Not all women are naturally nurturing mothers. Some of us have “good enough” mothers, while the rest may be saddled with mothers who show more empathy toward the family dog than their own children. The phrase “like mother, like daughter” or comments such as, “You look so much like your mother” or “You’re acting just like your mother,” often makes daughters recoil in horror when they hear them – even if they have a great mother. Daughters may also freeze in their tracks when they find themselves saying things they heard throughout their childhood, such as “Wait until your father comes home,” “Don’t make me stop the car” and “I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.”
So, why is the mother/daughter relationship so contentious sometimes? Some experts suggest it's due to these comparisons, while others may believe mothers feel as if they must compete with their “mini-me” for attention from their husbands. Regardless of the reason, the relationship a daughter has with her mother lays the foundation for her relationship with herself in the future.
A supportive mother who encourages her daughter and instills confidence likely helps her
become a self-assured and successful woman. Conversely, mothers who demean, shame or prevent their daughters from exploring new things may risk raising daughters with body dysmorphia or low selfesteem.
The Three Stages of Conflict
No matter the nature of the mother/daughter relationship, three situations in this duo's lifetime are likely to cause conflict:
1. Teenage Years. During adolescence, daughters begin testing boundaries and discovering their identities. Conflict often arises because the mother’s role is changing as the daughter becomes less dependent. While mothers may feel proud of their daughter's newfound independence, they also mourn the loss of their little girl. Daughters may want to run to their moms for every problem, while also wanting to handle things on their own. How they navigate their internal conflicts can significantly affect the mother/daughter dynamic during this transition.
2. Moving Out. When daughters move out of the house, mothers should not take this desire for independence personally. It should be seen as a sign of successful parenting – a testament that they have equipped their daughters with the tools needed to thrive on her own.
3. Marriage and Motherhood. The third source of conflict arises when a daughter gets married or has a baby. It may be that the mother feels replaced by her daughter's partner, or perhaps she just doesn't like her daughter's choice of a partner, period. This can lead to serious disappointment and strife, as moms often see their daughters as a direct reflection of themselves. Additionally, it can lead to further conflict if the newlyweds or new parents don't adhere to her advice regarding their household or the grandchildren.
Smother Mother
Some mothers inadvertently create barriers to their daughters’ independence through strict curfews or by discouraging extracurricular activities. Whether consciously or subconsciously, these mothers may fear that her daughters will lead better lives than they did. An extreme example would be a mother who guilt-trips her daughter into avoiding college or refuses to provide financial support.
There may also be feelings of jealousy regarding their daughter’s financial independence, which may have eluded the mother herself. Transitioning from relying on her parents to depending on a spouse may leave her feeling threatened by her daughter's self-sufficiency.
All children make poor choices sometimes. Ideally, they learn from those mistakes. However, some mothers struggle to trust their daughters to make the right decisions, regardless of how well they were raised. This can manifest as a mother undermining her daughter's choices or criticizing her decisions, or by looking through her phone or social media accounts to see what she's up to. While this behavior might come from a place of love, the daughter may perceive it as a lack of faith in her capabilities.
What Moms Can Do
If you're a mother, try to respect your daughter as an individual, recognizing that she is not merely an extension of you. Her experiences, dreams and challenges are unique.
• Approach her with curiosity rather than judgment. Ask her questions about what she is experiencing, even if you think you know the answer. Her answers might surprise you.
• Be open to learning from her. This will show her that your role is not just to continue
shaping her – you can learn from each other.
• Leave her alone. Sometimes, she just needs space. Give her the gift of space sometimes –and not in a passive/aggressive way, either.
• Have her back. She needs to know you support her and stand behind her. There are too many negative people in the world ready to tell her she's wrong. Be the one who validates her.
What Daughters Can Do
• Understand she had a life before you came along. Although it may seem like her world revolves around you, she is a woman with her own dreams and aspirations.
• Appreciate her parenting efforts, even if they don’t meet all your expectations. She may be doing the best she can.
• Grow up. You can't expect her to stay out of your business because you're a "grown up" if you're constantly asking her to borrow money or making poor choices that could potentially harm you or your children.
• Allow her to love on and spoil your children. There is nothing better in the world than a beautiful grandchild. Enough said. WGW
Daily Fare
Chef Rose With
Chef Rose Isaacs is a native of Carroll County and lives in Carrollton with her husband, Shawn and their son, Sebastian. She graduated from West Georgia Technical College in 2013 with a degree in Culinary Arts.
She is a personal chef who offers cooking lessons, baby food prep, date night dinners for two and more. Learn more about Chef Rose at www.chefrosecooks.com.
Chef Rose photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography, daileylifephotography@gmail.com
Recipe photos by Andrew Agresta, Agresta Photography, www.agrestaphotography.com
Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Ingredients
4 large poblano peppers
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup enchilada or tomato sauce
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375º F
Carefully cut the tops off the poblano peppers, and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Add cooked rice, beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper.
Stir to combine for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through.
Remove skillet from heat, and add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
Spoon the mixture into each poblano pepper, and arrange in a greased baking dish.
Pour enchilada or tomato sauce over peppers, and sprinkle remaining cheese.
Cover loosely with foil.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until peppers are tender. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Serves 4
“These peppers are the perfect dish for a Cinco de Mayo celebration.”
Chilled Strawberry Mint Soup
“This light and refreshing soup is perfect for a spring brunch.”
Ingredients
4 cups fresh strawberries, halved
2-4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt or coconut milk
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Preparation
Blend the strawberries, honey, mint leaves, Greek yogurt (or coconut milk), lemon juice, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt in a blender until completely smooth.
Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness if necessary, adding more honey or maple syrup as needed.
Pour the soup into a container and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to chill properly.
When ready to serve, give the soup a quick stir and pour into bowls or small glasses.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves, an extra drizzle of honey or even a swirl of yogurt for a decorative touch.
Serves 4. WGW
Holding On and Letting Go:
After giving ourselves permission to grieve, finding a renewed sense of purpose, and learning to embrace the unknown, we discovered one of life’s most profound truths. We discovered the importance of choosing joy, even when life feels fragile and uncertain. Joy is not something that simply blooms on its own, but instead it is a mindset, an intentional decision, a choice we make, even when the soil feels barren, and the storms are heavy. For Marie and me, that choice became the lifeline that carried us into spring.
When Marie was first diagnosed with cancer, joy felt like a distant season. We could barely remember what true joy felt like, let alone design a roadmap on how to return to it. The weight of the diagnosis, the harsh realities of treatment, and the fear of an uncertain future created a chill that seemed to seep into every corner of our lives. Laughter felt wrong and happiness seemed out of reach, so how could we possibly feel joy when our hearts were so heavy? However, over time, we began to realize that joy and grief are not enemies, but instead neighbors that grow side by side like wildflowers and thistles in the same field. Joy doesn’t mean ignoring the hard truth. It means allowing moments of warmth and light to grow even when the shadows are long and dark.
A Story of Love, Life and Loss
By Patrick Yuran
Our turning point came one Friday afternoon after a particularly difficult week. Marie was resting in the passenger seat of the car, weary and weak from the side effects of that week’s treatment. We were on our way to the mountains, but I could feel the weight of everything pressing down on us. As we drove, the world outside seemed to stretch open, offering us a brief escape from the walls that had held so much of our fear and worry. The
a long day savoring the sweetness dripping down the side of the cone, and an evening walk around the neighborhood with the fresh scent of blooming lilacs in the air bring us such joy. If you look carefully and listen closely, true joy shows up in the quiet moments, the messy moments, and the in-between moments we might overlook, if we are not careful.
Choosing joy doesn’t mean the hard days disappear. The cold rain still comes, and there are moments when the weight of reality presses down hard, but choosing joy gives us strength to face those days. It reminds us that life isn’t defined by the diagnosis or the struggle, but by the love, laughter and quiet moments of connection we cultivate along the way.
winding roads carried us higher and higher, and with each turn, the tension began to ease. I rolled my window down, letting the crisp mountain air rush in, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Marie laughed, a soft, beautiful sound that filled the car and my heart.
When we reached the cabin, our happy place, we sat together on the back porch, watching the sun dip behind the distant tree line. There was nothing perfect about that moment. Marie was still weak, and I was still scared, but for those few minutes, none of that mattered. We were simply there, side by side, breathing in the beauty around us, wrapped in the quiet peace of being together. That was the moment I realized that joy doesn’t need perfect conditions; it just needs space to breathe. It was a reminder that even in the hardest moments, there’s still light to be found if you’re willing to look for it. And that night, we found it, together, on a quiet drive to our cabin in the mountains, our happy place.
From then on, we started looking for joy in the smallest, simplest places. Morning breakfast together on Saturdays out by the pool wrapped in the soft chill of early spring listening to the world wake up, a spontaneous trip to get ice cream after
Patrick Yuran is an educator, artist and entrepreneur. He currently serves as the Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy, is the founder and Artistic Director of The REAL Theatre and is the President of PJY Consulting. Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography. PERSONALIZED, FAST AND FRIENDLY
We have learned that joy is like the first crocus breaking through the frost inspiring others to bloom, too. When we allowed ourselves to laugh, to smile, to find warmth in the middle of the cold storm, it gave others permission to do the same. Our friends and family began to show up for us differently once we began to choose joy. They did not just show up with quiet sympathy, but instead with shared laughter and lightness. Our openness to joy created space for others to find it, even in the midst of difficulty.
Marie and I now see joy as an act of quiet rebellion and a refusal to let cancer steal the beauty of the present moment. We’ve learned that joy is not about escaping reality, but about stepping fully into it, embracing both the softness of new growth and the sharp edges of the thorns. Joy is not always easy, but it is always possible.
So, as you walk through your own changing seasons, I hope you remember that joy is not something you wait for, but something you create. Joy lives in the quiet warmth of a shared glance, in the deep belly laughs you didn’t see coming, in the sunlight that breaks through the clouds when you least expect it. Joy is not the absence of pain, but the bloom that rises from it. You have a choice, so why not choose joy? Choose joy not because life is perfect, but because it is precious. That is reason enough. WGW
How to take small steps to be less reliant on technology Disconnecting
By Sandra Bolan
Smartphones are possibly the biggest nonnarcotic addition of the 21st century. A new term has even been created to describe how people feel when they’re physically separated from their phones – nomophobia (No Mobile Phone Phobia) – which is defined by Psychology Today as “that rush of anxiety and fear when you realize you are disconnected and out of the loop with friends, family, work and the world.”
Unlike addictions to drugs and alcohol, something you can live without, in 2025, it’s nearly impossible to live tech-free. However, there are ways to reduce your dependency on all things technological and keep your job, connections to the outside world and your sanity, without it ruling your life.
First, honestly consider how attached you are to your phone, iPad or laptop. Studies show the more we depend on technology, the more we use it, even when we don’t need it.
How do you feel when your phone or other devices aren’t within arm’s reach? How about when they’re in another room or lost in the couch cushions?
If you get anxious or nervous when you don’t have your phone on you or if you check for texts, emails and social media updates every few minutes to ensure you’re not missing out on anything, then you might be addicted to technology.
Ask yourself what you're afraid of missing. What are you waiting for that has you checking all your apps on a continual loop? Does your heart flutter with every social media “like” your post gets? Or maybe you’re just an internet addict – you web surf for nothing in particular or you’re just scrolling through your news feed like you're window shopping at the mall.
question we have and jumping every time we hear the phone ping.
• Start small. When charging your phone or any device, do so in another room. Turn off all unnecessary notifications. When working, put your phone in airplane mode, and whether it’s at home or the office, store it in your desk drawer or a coat pocket. These little changes increase your productivity, and the more you do it, the easier it is to leave technology alone for awhile.
• Find other activities to replace the boredom. Go for a walk, even if it’s just to the other room and back, take up a hobby, meditate or workout.
• Pull out an actual wallet to pay for items. Apple wallet and other pay apps are convenient, but how many times have you gone to pay for something, then spent the next 20 minutes scrolling through Facebook notifications? Keep the phone in your bag or pocket and pull out the old-fashioned wallet.
If you really want to go to old school, pay with cash.
• Ban phones from certain areas in the home. Some families already have a no-phone-atthe-table rule. Great. Now, extend that to the bedroom. Either there are no phones in the boudoir, or if you have to have it with you, turn it on airplane mode or do not disturb. If you have elderly parents or kids who need to reach you 24/7, use a unique notification sound for those calls only, and enable their messages to come through when on do not disturb.
• Don’t sleep with the phone under your pillow or anywhere in the bed. You’re asleep; do you really need your phone in bed with you? When you wake up, don’t scroll through social media or answer any emails or texts. Just get up, get yourself and the kids dressed, fed and out the door.
• Call your friends instead of texting them. It will resolve the issue a lot faster, and it’s nice to hear a friendly voice.
• Use a writing utensil and real paper. Smartphones are loaded with so many apps to get us organized that we need an app to figure out where all of our well-organized files are. Try writing your to-do or grocery list down on a piece of paper. Studies from Princeton and the University of California found that students who wrote their class notes, versus typing them, were smarter and more engaged than those who typed them. Other studies show handwriting keeps your mind sharp as you age.
• Replace some of your tech-based activities with non-tech ones. For example, read a real book instead of one on Kindle, go out with friends instead of texting them all day or use a paper calendar instead of Google.
you’re upgrading mom’s space or looking for that perfect
I’ve
When you're constantly anticipating a text, call, email or social media notification, your brain and body responds in a way that’s not dissimilar to being in a state of high anxiety. That’s because you're so worried about missing out on whatever awesome thing is happening in the digital world.
But when you rely on technology so much that you're constantly checking your phone or tablet for notifications, or worried about what the people you barely know are doing on social media, you're missing out on the really wonderful things that are happening all around you in the real world. WGW
Cathye Dowda Cota
LocaL Happenings
Domestic Violence Support Group
There is Hope is a support group for women survivors who have dealt with, or are currently dealing with, domestic violence.
This is a private group where women survivors come together and share their personal stories of experience, strength and hope.
This group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at a private location. A ZOOM option is available.
There will be guidance for help and resources available as needed. At times there will also be guest speakers.
Contact hopefulone807@gmail.com for more information and to obtain the privacy contract with the physical address or ZOOM meeting ID and passcode.
Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Groups
Has your life been impacted by the loss of a friend or loved one to suicide? You are not alone. These groups offer peer support for anyone who has been affected by suicide loss. There is no cost to attend.
Group meetings in Carrollton are the third
Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 306A Bradley Street.
For more information, contact Ivey Rollins at iveyrollins@gmail.com or call 470.729.0909.
Group meetings in Douglasville are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 6167 Priestley Mill Rd., Room 226.
For more information, contact Terri Johnson at chose2live@aol.com or 770.765.2181.
Group meetings in Newnan are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Crossroads Church, 2564 Hwy 154.
For more information, contact Lynn Bradley at 770.301.4890 or email nbll.bradley170@gmail.com, or contact Nancy Bradley at 770.251.6216.
PFLAG Carrollton Support Group
PFLAG Carrollton provides a free monthly peer facilitated support group for adult members (ages 18+) of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as their family, friends and allies, as a resource for families struggling with acceptance of their LGBTQ+ loved ones.
The goal is to meet people where they are and lead with love. PFLAG’s mission of support, education and advocacy from a place of love can
help struggling families, as well as the community at large.
Support group meetings (for adults 18+) are led by a PFLAG trained facilitator and held on the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Grace Lutheran Church, 101 Somerset Place in Carrollton.
Confidentiality and safety are top priorities. Contact Julia Houser, pflagcarrollton@gmail.com for more information.
Junior Chamber Students Honored at Graduation Ceremoney
The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the graduation of its Junior Chamber students with a special ceremony held at the Carroll County Performing Arts Center. Family members, educators, Chamber representatives and community leaders gathered to recognize the achievements of these outstanding young leaders.
Throughout the program year, Junior Chamber students participated in hands-on leadership development, civic engagement opportunities, and professional growth experiences designed to
prepare them for future success.
During the graduation event, students were formally recognized and received awards for their participation and accomplishments. The ceremony marked the culmination of a year filled with dedication, teamwork and a deepened understanding of community leadership.
The Chamber extends its sincere appreciation to the West Georgia Community Foundation and our Leadership Development Sponsors for making this impactful program possible. Their generous support plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of leaders in Carroll County.
The Carroll County Chamber remains committed to fostering leadership at every level, and the Junior Chamber program continues to be a vital part of that mission.
City of Temple and Carroll County Chamber Celebrate Grand Opening of the William Simmons City Administration Building
The City of Temple, Ga. celebrated the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the William Simmons City Administration Building located at 240 Carrollton St. This beautiful new facility now stands at the heart of city operations and is a symbol of progress, service and community spirit. Named in honor of William Simmons, a dedicated leader whose legacy of service helped shape the city’s growth, the new administration building reflects both the past and future of Temple.
Mayor Michael Johnson shared heartfelt remarks during the ceremony, reflecting on the building's significance and expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to its completion.
The ribbon-cutting event was attended by city officials, community leaders and residents all coming together to celebrate this meaningful milestone. Among the honored guests were members of William Simmons' family, including his daughter, who had the privilege of cutting the ceremonial ribbon in a touching tribute to her father’s enduring legacy.
The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce was honored to partner with the City of Temple to coordinate and facilitate this special ribbon cutting ceremony. The Chamber proudly supports moments like these that highlight growth, progress and the spirit of community collaboration across our region.
The William Simmons City Administration Building is now officially open and ready to serve the citizens of Temple.
For more information about the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.Carroll-GA.org.
Carroll EMC Donation Supports School Safety
Citing "great pride and a deep sense of responsibility," Carroll Electric Membership Corporation has donated $97,500 to Carroll County Schools to be used for school safety initiatives.
Carroll EMC President/CEO Tim Martin attended the Carroll County Board of Education meeting April 17 to present the check and read a letter expressing the desire of CEMC's board of directors to aid local schools in their continued pursuit of a safe and secure learning environment for both students and educators.
"We are honored to partner with Carroll County Schools in a shared mission to provide a safe, nurturing and empowering environment for all students," Martin said. "It is our hope that this donation will contribute meaningfully to that mission and support any measures deemed necessary to enhance the safety infrastructure and preparedness across your schools."
The Carroll County Board of Education shared its thanks with Martin and the CEMC board for their steadfast community support and strong sense of partnership.
Martin said the donation is generated from unclaimed capital credits and does not impact cost for current EMC customers.
"As a member-owned cooperative, Carroll EMC is committed to serving not just the energy needs of our members, but the broader well-being of the communities we call home," Martin said. "Our Board recognizes that the safety and security of students, faculty and staff are vital to the success and sustainability of our region."
Notice of Last Date to Claim Carroll Electric Membership Corporation Capital Credits Refunded in 2019
In compliance with O.C.G.A. § 44-12-236 of The Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act, Carroll EMC is attempting to locate former members whose capital credit checks were issued in 2019, but which have been returned by the U. S. Post Office as “undeliverable” or have otherwise been unclaimed.
A current list of these members, and a list of their last known addresses and instructions for claiming these funds, is posted on Carroll EMC’s website at www.carrollemc.com.
The last possible date to claim these funds is October 3, 2025. Funds that are not claimed by this date will be used for economic development, education or donated for charitable uses, as permitted by O.C.G.A. § 44-12-236.
To claim a refund or submit any questions about this notice or the list, please contact 770-832-3552.
NOVEMBER
The motherin-law (MIL) relationship has been described as the longest war in history, in which enemy lines are constantly being drawn, erased and re-drawn. And just when you think you’ve diffused every bomb, you find yourself smack in the middle of another minefield.
In-laws are one of the top four common marital issues, along with money, sex and kids. When you get married, you might think it’s just the two of you vowing to love, honor and cherish each other until death do you part. But you’re actually marrying a lot of other people, including your partner’s parents, siblings and maybe even a crazy aunt or uncle. Those are numerous personalities, opinions and people you didn’t technically agree to marry, but they’re still part of the package.
and especially, how to raise her grandchildren. Some of what she says may be great advice – no matter how much you want to hate it – but she might offer other nuggets of wisdom that make you wonder what kind of drugs
How you react to the latter pieces of advice is imperative, as the slightest eye roll could ignite a major family feud. So when your MIL imparts words of wisdom that sound like they came out of a Cracker Jack box, try to remain neutral in your tone of voice and your body language. Reply with something like, “That’s an interesting idea, thank you for sharing that with me,” “I’ll definitely think about that in the future” or "Wow, I never thought of that before. Thanks for letting me know."
Realize It’s Not All About You
Long before you came along, both you and your spouse were part of families who did things a certain way, had long-standing traditions and unspoken expectations. Marriage is like walking into the middle of a movie where you both have to figure out the characters, plot and where you fit in. Depending on the family, one partner may be walking into a comedy, and the other, a horror film.
While the bridal showers, bachelorette party and wedding day are all about you, the marriage isn’t. You and you’re spouse aren’t the only ones confronted with a monumental life shift. Your inlaws undergo their own adjustments, and that may be difficult for them. It takes time for both sets of parents to adjust to the new family dynamic, so be patient.
Learn to Deflect
A MIL loves to impart her wisdom on her young, and will do so – unsolicited and with impunity – on pretty much every aspect of your marriage. From your housekeeping skills – or lack thereof – to how you should spend your money, to why you aren't spending enough time with your partner's family,
If she continues to harp on you about why you’re not doing things her way as she suggested, again, remain calm and respond with something like, “Thank you for the advice, but it just didn’t work for us, and we’ve opted to do it this way.” This may still kick off World War III, but at least you can say you were polite.
If you're having difficulty getting along with your MIL, try taking her out to lunch or shopping so you can spend time getting to know one another better. If all goes well, and everyone is still alive and speaking to each other, you can try doing something together that neither one of you has done before. There’s nothing like trauma bonding (in a fun way) to help build new relationships.
Sadly, sometimes there is just no compromising with your MIL, and she may never accept you. Maybe it’s because you're not the type of person she wanted for her child – she wanted him to marry a doctor, but you're a struggling artist. Or perhaps no matter how many boxes you check, you'll never be good enough in her eyes. When this happens, even after you've tried to bond with her, sometimes the best way to get along is to spend as little time together as possible, while still being OK with the fact that your partner and children love her deeply (and she, them) and want to spend time with her.
Just like any marriage, you and your MIL are likely to step on some bombs, then find ways to maneuver around each other without setting off more explosions. Tread lightly, and remember, she raised the person you love, so she can’t be all bad. WGW
Kids Korner
Crazy Catapult
Materials
Colored popsicle sticks
Hot glue gun or craft glue
Bottle cap
Rubber bands
Instructions
Take two popsicle sticks and band them together with rubber bands, or glue them together.
Take another two popsicle sticks and band them together on only one side.
Place the first set of sticks in between the two sticks from the second set, close to the bound area.
Wrap the rubber bands around both sets of sticks as shown in the photo.
Take a bottle cap and place on the unbound end. Pull down on that end and let go quickly to send the bottle cap flying through the air.
By Jordan Dailey
Craft photos by Zachary Dailey
Mother's Day Photo Card
Materials
Construction paper, any color
Scissors
Glue or tape
Green paint
Chenille stem
Marker, any color
Your child's photo
Instructions
Cut flower petals out of one piece of construction paper.
Cut a round pistil out of another piece of construction paper.
Cut out your child's silhouette and glue to a piece of construction paper.
Glue the pipestem so it appears as if your child is holding it.
Glue or tape the pistil to the flower petals. Glue the petals and pistil on top of the pipestem. Decorate as desired. WGW
HEATING • COOLING • PLUMBING
24 Hour Service Since 1954
Redefining mental health for the whole person.
At Willowbrooke at Tanner, we care about every part of you. Our services are thoughtfully designed to nurture all aspects of mental well-being:
• Expert team of psychiatrists specializing in substance use, child, adolescent, adult and geriatric psychiatry, as well as women’s services.
• Inpatient and outpatient care
• Substance use programs for adolescents, adults and working people.
• Innovative treatments like expressive therapy, equine therapy and more.
We don’t just treat symptoms — we care for the whole person. Whether you're facing substance
WillowbrookeAtTanner.org
at Tanner