Ethel May Allen, was a beautiful, soft spoken, precious lady. She was born and raised in Fulton, Kentucky. She was also a very talented seamstress and clothes designer….way back in the day…..

After she married, she had 4 daughters, Elizabeth, Mary Ethel, Maggie Sue, and the baby, (Frances Kathleen, my Mom). Sadly, their Father left his young family when my Mom was only 6 weeks old.

Money was tight, as my Grandmother was raising these 4 girls by herself. She was a full time Seamstress and wonderful Mother to her family, always making sure the girls were in Church and knew the Lord. By her hard work, steadfastness, diligence and Godly example, she made sure each girl went to College and received a good education.

Grandmother sewed all of her girl’s clothes, through every stage of their growing up years. As they grew older and needed formal attire for school events, she created beautiful formal gowns for each of them……sometimes out of house curtains…..They always looked like the “Belle of the Ball”…..

After all four girls were raised, finished College, and married, she began to fulfill the calling in her life, to become a Missionary.

Eventually, Grandmother moved to California. Her oldest daughter, Elizabeth and her family lived there…..Although, Grandmother lived a couple hours away with her job.

As we all know, our BIG GOD works in mysterious ways……He orchestrated events to line up for Grandmother to begin working for several Movie Stars, and Movie Producers. She worked directly for the Clifton Webb family. Then began working for Marilyn Monroe. Grandmother worked backstage as her Personal Assistant. She helped Marilyn get into her costumes, zipped her dresses, made repairs, but most of all she became a good friend to Marilyn……someone who listened to her, show her unconditional care. She ministered the Love of the Lord to her.

Years later, Grandmother shared more with us about her times spent with Marilyn Monroe. She said the Star was a very sweet woman, although deeply troubled. They had a beautiful friendship, and she allowed Grandmother to speak into her life.

When we open ourselves up to the Lord’s prompting, He will use us in ways that are sometimes out of our comfort zone…..He is looking for those who simply say “use me”……it’s that simple…..and sometimes it’s a journey…He is always Faithful, and rest assured, there will be a testimony to follow…..

We, who love the Lord are all called to be Missionaries…..at school, work, the grocery store…..A simple smile, holding the door, or “may I pray with you?”……..we simply say “Use me, Lord.” He never denies a willing heart.