Following Rita

About 6 years ago, Rita Schroeder drove a bunch of us young women to youth conference. On the way there she wanted to stop to get a smoothie, she sweetly bought each of us one. I remember I got a strawberry vanilla flavor, she ordered strawberry banana. In the car we were listening to the "My private nation" album by train. Rita said her favorite song on the cd was "Following Rita".. naturally :) That song has always reminded me of her, and always will. We were having such a blast on the drive, we drove about an hour past our destination - we laughed like it was the funniest and most stupid thing we had ever done.

She was also a teacher in YW's, I loved her lessons. She told touching and sometimes hilarious stories about her daughters, and taught in a way that always left me wanting more. Her lessons were some of the most memorable and spritual for me. She was interested in our lives, she truly cared. I will never forget the love that eminated from her everytime I was around her. She was a terrific role model to have in my life during my crucial teenage years.

I was lucky enough to marry into a family that knows Rita probably as well as her own family. Logan referred to her as his second mom.  My mother in law Dyanna has been her best friend for about 20 years. I love hearing their stories about them as young mothers, and their children growing up together. Most of these stories will leave you in tears because of how funny they are. seriously. Their families have spent nearly every holiday together for years and years, the past few years that I've been in the family I've been able to see a little bit of their traditions - like spending every Christmas eve together.. its such a party. I love it. This year, they came over to the Moore's for Christmas eve like they have every year. Rita's health was declining, but she was there with a smile on her face. What a treat to see her and visit with her. They sang for us like they had in the years past. One of the songs was Carol of the bells, Rita sang her part, and of course sang it beautifully. It was a Christmas eve to remember, and I am so grateful I was able to be a part of it.  I am grateful to have nothing but absolutely wonderful memories of her. Absolutely wonderful.

Sweet Rita, I feel blessed to have known you.