MEMORIES of MOMMA*:
Momma got to shake hands with the Governor of Alaska when she visited me the summer of 2014. We were at the Governor's Annual Family Picnic hosted in Juneau at Sandy Beach, and we seized the opportunity to meet Governor Sean Parnell and First Lady Sandy Parnell as they were walking through the crowd.
I was so proud to introduce my Mom to the Governor, and Mom was so surprised that she got to spend a few minutes talking with him and the First Lady. This sort of casual interaction would be unheard of in my home state of Alabama, so it was all the more special for me and Mom.
During her visit the following summer, Alaska had a new administration, but still hosted a picnic for the community. She met Lieutenant Governor Byron Mallott during that event, and the Lt. Governor, charmed by her accent, asked if she was from England. Momma let out a big laugh and said, "Why nah, I'm from Huntsville, Alabama!" She always did have the best accent.
*It's Day 54 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.