Like Sands Through the Hour Glass....

For those of us who grew up on a steady diet of Days of Our Lives, the last couple of weeks have been pretty darn cool. The show has been honoring the late Frances Reid with visits from past characters. The list is long, the memories are sweet, and the few episodes I've been able to watch have been a joy -- at least the parts about Grandma Alice.

Life imitates art, unfortunately, and we've spent some time honoring our very own hero this week. The first time I remember hearing mention of Milton Stephens was when Abbie was born -- and Mom shared that her new friend had a granddaughter named Abby as well. She may have said things about him before, but that's the first I remember.

Milton came into Mom's life at a time when she needed him so very much. This big, strong man had the biggest hands I've ever seen. She said when he held her hand, it made her feel safe. He made her feel cherished and loved. I can't imagine a better man for my Mom to have shared those last years with. "Warts and all," as they always said. He was good to her, and she loved him dearly.