In December 2022, my husband and I visited the McCaysville/Blue Ridge area for a long weekend getaway. We had a lovely brunch with my Cousin Johnny and his wife, Brenda. I had not seen them since we buried his mom almost seven years ago.

By the time we were driving back to Tennessee, I knew I was to correct a ton of errors in our Ancestry and MyHeritage records. Johnny had shared some things on those sites which I knew were wrong. We also talked about writing his COVID Miracle story.

God kept reminding me why “begats matter”. The Boss T. Mull Family Book idea had percolated for years between cousin Vicky and myself. After praying a while, it was clear I was not to enter into the task haphazardly.

In simplest terms, there were TWELVE children born to my great grandparents. All were in the heavenly choir as of Feb 2017. My cousin Johnny’s mother, Aleen, was the Last Mull Standing.

Essentially, I was to research, verify, and compile the records in some sort of readable format. That in itself is no small task. However, I was to humble myself and seek APPROVAL of the content to ensure we didn’t leave “one for the 99”. To get approval meant asking the oldest living person from each “branch” to approve the record.

I started with Arlene. she was celebrating her 87th birthday at the end of January. I called her in early January 2023. She was excited to hear from me and schedule a visit. That call was a catalyst for much.

Arlene told me she could never forget me. I asked her why. Her response humbled me to the core. “Carol, when W.T. left me in 82-83, you sent me the most beautiful letter.” She told me how much it made her feel loved when her world was falling apart. I sent her a letter telling her that NO MATTER WHAT, I loved her and she would always be my Aunt Arlene. Simple, really.

Simple truth from a kid who lost her grandma Ruby at only 55 years old in May 1981. Arlene loved Ruby, too.

Of the original twelve, my mamaw was the second to go to heaven. Uncle Dan was killed in the line of duty on 8/20/1975.

When my Mamaw went to heaven, I continued my habit of sending the other ten aunts and uncles notecards in summer and Christmas cards. It was something inspired by my mamaw when she was still on this earth. Laughings catching and love is, too.

The beautiful weekends I have spent in 2023 with Arlene aka Nanny B are priceless. The book proved to be a blessing for many who did not know they had such strong roots. it’s no accident that Arlene’s favorite song is “I don’t regret a mile”. 💜✝️💜