I can't say "Albuquerque, New Mexico" without thinking of the Bates family! I was just a little girl - early teen when they came to pastor. I remember loving to hear her testify and say how she got saved in "the hills of Arkansas"! When Kayla would be asking her mom if I could come over for Sunday dinner, I would just "pray and pray" that she would say yes! And she did! Their house is the first recollection I have of going to "eat at the pastor's house". It was like one of those fairy tale experiences of going to a castle! I still remember her making us a bar-b-qued hamburger - right in the frying pan! I loved that family and loved to sit by Lois in church,...had a childhood crush on Royce..chased ole Randy around...and best friends with Kayla. I didn't know Ricky - but knew the rest of them. I loved the big smiling grin of Bro. Bates! What a wonderful family! Thank you, Sis. Bates for your influence on me as a little girl! I am on this path and plan to meet you where we will never say goodbye!