March 31 is Kelly Jo Marlene Good’s birthday. In fact, the whole month of March is my niece’s day. She died seven years ago but not before long changing how I look at March. It truly is a month of change and hope. These are topics we cover everyday as a community newspaper. For me, March and its messages have always been more personal. I hunger for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Pepsi “Nepsi” even more than normal this month because they were Kelly Jo’s favorites. I think a lot about wrestling books and Power Rangers and music — Rock of course — and laughter and a family complete. This day is not as sad as it once was, because now on this day I live more within my respect for my lovely niece and feel strength and encouragement in the small spring-like things like kites and butterflies because she taught me the value of everyday miracles. I know she is happy and sharing her smiles with others that have a piece of my heart with them in heaven. Happy happy to you, Kelly Jo.
Judy D.J. Ellich
Your ideas and responses are welcome at judye@dailyamerican.com