Monday, April 28, 2014

Belva Dugan--extra special


Born and raised in Missouri, my Aunt Belva Dugan (on the right) lived in Texas most of her adult life. The oldest of eight children, Belva married once, but after a few years, her husband divorced her. They had no children. She was a career woman.
My aunt was a wonderful woman, sweet and easy to talk to. She sewed and crafted, but I remember her most for her faith in God.
She left behind a sweet devotional book. I am its caretaker.


This is Aunt Belva's Streams in the Desert devotional book given to her by a Sunday School Class.


I am so happy I have this book. Why?

I can’t even count the times; I’ve visited this book in times of grief and hardship. Somehow it gives me new things to think about each time and if a book can comfort, it does.   

Two of my favorite poems wait for me inside its covers. 
 
Belva Dugan as an infant. My ears stuck out like that, too.
 
 
Belva Dugan first born daughter of Frank and Sadie (Stafford) Dugan.
 
 
 

12 comments:

Jade said...

Its so nice to see handwritten notes in books from loved ones and to have the companionship of a good book! Great post!

Stephanie Faris said...

It's great that you have that book to turn to in times of need. My mom was born and raised in Missouri and lived in Tennessee most of her life.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

She would be delighted to know you enjoy it so much.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Teresa - as Alex says Belva will be so pleased you so appreciate her book ...and it's lovely reading that you have found so much value in reading its contents ... And that you treasure it so much - cheers Hilary

Pat Hatt said...

Sounds like one that can help you in all situations in life, bet she would love that you love it. Even if you did cheat for X lol

Robin said...

What a wonderful gift she left you. I bet she knows that it has provided untold comfort for you and she is smiling in heaven!

Unknown said...

This is sweet, and so homey. My roots are rural Illinois near Rock Island. You remind me of my relatives. Those pictures and borrowed memories seem more real sometimes than the present. Mary at Variety, the Spice of Life

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I have two copies of that book here! It's an amazing book, especially in times of grief.

Bonnie Gwyn said...

Beautiful <3 It's amazing how those who come before us can reach out to us, especially through words and memories - and photographs. So glad you have this to remember her by. :)
Thanks for stopping by my blog!
Lots of love.
Where Legends Begin

JoJo said...

So nice to have that! I assume those kids that wrote their names and numbers are all grown up?

Teresa Cypher said...

What a treasure! You are blessed to be the keeper. Thanks for sharing :-)

Mary Aalgaard said...

Sweet.