happy day...judy

Judy holding John May '79


Today is my mother-in-law's birthday, and I wish we were there to celebrate with her. I'm sad, because we were supposed to be in Utah this weekend because of my 1/2 marathon, but, (despite the countless, agonizing hours at the gym), I'm just not going to be ready to run it. So, because I won't be there in person to tell her Happy Birthday, I'm going to pay her a little tribute... right here on my blog.
I was reflecting today, back to the very first time I met Judy. John and I had just begun to date, casually; and he was in Sandy one night, staying over at his mom's. I happen to be living at home(in West Jordan), so John asked me if I'd like to come over and hang out. He gave me directions to the house, and when I got there, I was greeted by one of the most beautiful, softhearted, and pleasant people I had ever met...John's mom. I just remember that her kind smile was so welcoming, and put me right at ease. You know what she did that night, that so impressed me? Well, John's foot (the one with the pin in it) was really bothering him, and so Judy (who can't stand to see her children in any kind of pain), grabbed some lotion, and began massaging his afflicting extremity. You probably won't believe me when I tell you that she offered to rub mine too! It's true, she really did. That whole experience made me think of the Savior, when he washed the feet of his twelve apostles. Said he unto them:

"For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done unto
you. Verily, Verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than
his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye
know these things, happy are ye if ye do them."

Judy (throughout her entire life), has striven to know these things (the Lord's teachings), and this I believe, is why she is such a happy individual. I know that she loves the Lord, because she had truly patterned her life after His. She lives as He taught us to live...through her kind words, her charitable service, her unconditional love toward her family, and others.

Judy has a way of putting people at ease, and showing interest in them. She loves to laugh, and we love to laugh together. She speaks ill of no one, and focuses on the good qualities, rather than dwelling on the flaws. If you've ever seen Gone with the Wind, you'll understand what I mean when I say that Judy is a Melanie. (I know my Dad knows what I'm talking about, he's the one that recommended I go watch the film, and closely observe the character Melanie. I am not quite there yet...but my mother-in-law is.)

Judy has especially been kind to me. She told me one time - and I will never forget this - "If I had passed away, and couldn't be there for my daughters, I would need to know that someone was there to take care of them...and love them, just as I would, if I were there." Well, Judy has done just that. She has loved me like her own daughter, and cared for me, and lifted my spirits, and given me words of encouragement, and supported me...all the things that mothers do with, and to, and for their daughters. Thank you Judy, I know my mom couldn't be more pleased.

I love you, and wish you a very Happy Birthday!



Ruby's Blessing Day August '06



Judy and Vaughn with Isaac June 29 '05



UVSC Parent Appreciation Night April '04



John and Scott's Graduation Day April 30 '04