I have always loved my mother in-law!

From the first time I met her 50 years ago to the present she has always held a special place in my heart. She was a military wife who took her role of mothering 4 children very seriously. There is no doubt in my mind that there were times she sacrificed greatly for her children to have.

By the time I met her Jan had just started college. My first visit to their home to “meet the family” was a memorable experience. It ended with a squirt gun fight and her pouring a whole pot of water over my head–I felt right at home.

All through our married life she has been supportive of our ministry. It was not easy to move away for seminary, but then God blessed us by allowing us to pastor near by in South Carolina. It has not been easy to not be able to be home for holidays. However, she has always made holidays special, even when not on the exact date of the holiday.

I have always been impressed by her need to serve others. She has a group of ladies who have gathered around her and she takes care of them. They attend church together. They go out to eat together. They quilt together. The even have a game day every Saturday. Pat is always concerned about their health and whatever is going on in their lives.

This past week Jan and I had the privilege of visiting a few days before Mother’s Day. We did all of our favorites: Ye Olde Fashion for lunch, Walmart to buy flowers, and the family gathered to talk and catch up–of course that involved ordering pizza!

I even enjoyed digging the holes to transplant some azaleas. To see her “joy” watching me dig was a real pleasure. There is no doubt that her presence is felt deeply in the lives of those who know her. I for one am blessed that our paths crossed so early in life.

This is my story…