Mary Pete Monkey Bear Stinky Bottom

This weekend has been especially sad as one of my best friends (on the right in the picture) has gone to Atlanta to begin seminary at Candler. I'm excited for her as she begins a new chapter in her life of ministry, but it is also sad as we miss her. She was our drummer for our contemporary service Common Grounds.

My son calls her Mary Pete Monkey Bear Stinky Bottom. A name of affection for anyone. I don't think it's totally sunk in to him that she has left. And that she probably won't return until probably Christmas time.

We've known this time would come, but it seems that time has flown since she announced that she was leaving. I think it won't truly seem real until we begin Common Grounds again this Thursday. Things will be different without her around.

I wish you well, Mary...but miss you lots!