Today, I want Ice Cream

My cousin, Lee Ann Morgan died on Monday. She was 61.

At first glance, I think some people might think she did not live a remarkable life.

Some people would be wrong.

At the age of 16 she began working at the Dairy Queen in Shadyside, Ohio.

She, later managed and bought the Dairy Queen there.

Shadyside, by the way, is a very tiny down, just over the river from Wheeling, WV.

She was born in Bellaire, and was confirmed deceased in Bellaire Hospital.

In that way (and excuse me if you find this blasphemous) she was much like Jesus.

Much of her works (like Jesus) were accomplished within a fifty mile radius of where she lived.

Like Jesus, Lee Ann fed the masses from a very small location.

Like Jesus, Lee Ann drew young people to her, and they were made better, simply by associating with her.

This week hundreds of people mourn my cousin, Lee Ann's passing.

So many have said they will miss her . Like Jesus, she was taken too soon from us.

My husband said "I'm sure she would have been head of the chamber of commerce, maybe even Mayor of Shadyside, like her dad.". Honestly, I think Walt was most impressed with what was in Lee Ann's freezer, when we visited over a year ago.

You see, like many people who loved Lee Ann, I associate her with a particular miracle,

 to which Jesus did not lay claim.

Ice Cream.

Lovely, cool, velvety, sweet, soft serve Ice Cream.

Lee Ann made ice cream for the community.

Sometimes she gave it away (on special occasions, like when the Tigers won).

She always brought it home. She served to her family.

Once, I saw her give an entire line of people who were waiting at the DQ window (including myself) Ice Cream (and other food treats).

By simply opening the DQ in the spring, Lee Ann made hot days cooler, sad days sweeter, and ordinary days special days.

She did many things for her community, and she knew how to love her family and friends.

However so many of us will remember her for this one miracle : Ice Cream.

I think, when she found herself at the gates of heaven, St. Peter said to Jesus

"A special arrival at the gates, Lord.

The arrival is lovely and cool, with a sweet smile".

and Jesus greeted her with Peter and said "My Lee Ann is home.".