Idella Pearl EdwardsBorn and raised in Aurora, Illinois, Idella attended Olivet Nazarene University and received a degree from College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She and her husband, Jack, have five children, twelve grandchildren and have lived in eight differen states. They spent several years coordinating Lay Witness Missions and served as Certified Lay Speakers for the United Methodist Church. Idella Edwards retired from the State of Oklahoma in 2005. She and her husband moved to Marion, Illinois where she is an active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. She gives the message for the church service at Marion Rehab and Nursing Center once a month and writes a monthly faith column for The Marion Star Newspaper. She is a member of The Little Egypt Writers' Society and a board member of The Little Egypt Arts Association. Previous publications include, "HOPE, Through Eyes of Faith", "MAGNIFY, Inspirational Poetry for the Soul", "RESPECT FOR PARENTS 101, From a Grandmother's Point of View", "LOOK AT THE BIRDS, God's Love Revealed Through Nature", "DON'T HANG YOUR HARPS ON THE WILLOW TREE, Devotions for Keeping Hope Alive" and two children's books: "THE ADVENTURES OF TRUDY THE TREE SWALLOW" and "I'M JUST DUCKY." In addition to spoiling the grandchildren, her favorite pastimes are jigsaw puzzles, listening to Christian music, writing poetry, bird watching and photography. Read More Read Less