Josh’s sister Bethany gave birth to her first baby early this morning.  Ta’lyciana Dawn Williams was 6 lbs. 2 oz. and 19 inches long, born at 7:15 am in Arkansas.  Bethany had to have a c-section after being in labor for 12 hours!  Ta’lyciana is our fifth niece and her & mommy should be home tomorrow.  Congratulations!

Today we had the funeral services for my aunt Paula.  She was only 54 years old and had struggled with multiple sclerosis for most of her life.  Paula was diagnosed with cancer of the liver in December 2008 and given 3-6 months to live.  After receiving a phone call a few weeks ago telling us that the doctor had now only given her one week to live, me and the boys drove to Fullerton to visit with Paula.  It was horrible seeing her lying in bed unable to get up and looking so thin.  She was still very sharp when she was awake and got to meet Damon and talk to Branson.  I felt very good that our visit (especially Damon’s) brought a smile to her face.  She also reminisced about when her kids were babies.  Both boys were really good and we were able to stay almost two hours.  Just a couple of days after our visit, she lost consciousness, was unable to communicate, and passed away on July 1st.  Her passing was definitely too soon, but we are grateful that she isn’t suffering anymore.  It is still very strange to think that we won’t see her huge smile this Thanksgiving especially since last year we had no idea that she had cancer.  Please keep her husband and two children in your prayers.