This morning . . there’s craziness in the news, Speck seems to be doing worse this morning . . my outside chores were done and I sat down thinking . . I could cry all over again, but I had already put on makeup and would rather not have mascara streaming down my face. Before picking up my knitting, I went to read Facebook and see what my friends were doing and one friend had posted a link to Letter to Future Daughters-in-Law . . mostly thoughts from a boy’s mom to her future daughter-in-law.
Even if you don’t have a daughter-in-law, or don’t really like your daughter-in-law, it’s worth a read.
Without a doubt, I could have done a better job or raising my son . . mostly I could have had 10 kids instead of one spoiled little boy! 🙂
Reading through the Letter to Future Daughters-in-Law, I am again reminded that Chad brought me the most perfect DIL. I love her like my own daughter! I love video chatting with her every day. I love the way she raises my granddaughter. I love how enthusiasm for knitting. I know Chad is a great dad but the truth is . . Chad is working 60 or more hours per week most weeks and it’s Nicole that’s doing way too much of the parenting. I love how, from what I can see, she talks to Chad, how she treats Chad, how she is so willing to to do most any crazy idea Chad wants to do. I love how, when Chad has worked 6 days straight and gets one day off, and he wants to go fishing with the guys, Nicole understands that he needs that time . . more than she needs a little time with him.
I’m thankful . . ever so thankful . . for her parents . . for the way they raised her, for the values they taught her, for her adventurous spirit. I am thankful that her parents have opened their home and their hearts and they, along with the grandparents, treat Chad as one of their own, plan their holidays around his work schedule, that Nicole’s dad doesn’t seem to mind Chad taking over his shop and using his tools, and Nicole’s mom doesn’t seem to mind Chad taking over her kitchen and making a big mess and as she says . . leaving a big mess behind. 🙂
I’m thankful that Nicole was willing to pack up and leave the town where she was born, raised, went to high school, went to college . . leave her grandparents, her parents, her sister, her friends . . leave with a little baby and move with Chad for his job . . to a town where she knew no one . . and then move again, and they will move again and again if Chad keeps his current job. Nicole is always willing to follow where Chad leads.
If I could change one thing about her, I’d change her address . . or maybe it’s my own address I need to change! 🙂
Seriously, despite the bad news in our world today and despite my old dog losing ground in this thing we call life . . I am blessed and I can put a smile on my face and go on with my day, knowing that whatever happens in my little world, I have a great life.
Denise in PA says
Beautiful letter, Judy. I, too, am blessed with a wonderful DIL for whom I am truly grateful.
Jackie says
Whatever happens with Speck know that we are all with you and sending you hugs through the universe. You are blessed to have such a great DIL as is she having you as a MIL.
Dotti says
Today in Bible study, the question was,”when have you seen God in your life?” In truth we see him everyday. The horrific acts of violence in the world is not God, it is the lack of a loving God. A great husband, a great daughter/son, a wonderful daughter in law, grandchildren, pets that provide us with joy on a daily basis, yet grow old, quilters who share, share, share with people unseen and yet feel connected with comments shared, yes Virginia, there is a God.
Thank you for sharing your life and making us take a look at ours and realizing that we are blessed to live in this country.
Sherrill says
Amen to what Dotti said. Chad and Nicole seem to be a great couple and fantastic parents, a testament to their wonderful upbringing on both sides. You guys are all blessed and I hope Speck has a big turnaround. I do so love reading your blog.
Linda in TX says
I think you and Nicole deserve each other. Hugs to you both!
Peg H says
Awww … such sweet sentiments! Y’all are truly blessed. I pray Chad never forgets how blessed he is to have Nicole and Addie!
Dottie N. says
Such a beautiful post, Judy.
AmyM says
Beautiful tribute to your family. And hugs to you for these tough days.
Barb says
Beautiful post. Made me stop and see how blessed I am….
Susan says
That’s really beautiful that you feel that way, Judy, and I’m going to guess Nicole would write just as sweet a note about you.
JanetB says
My Biscuit had a neck problem for a while (spasms) and the vet recommended that we get an elevated food bowl for her. A new bowl and not letting her jump for a couple weeks resolved her issue. Just a thought…
Great post about your Nicole.
Karen Sutton says
I think Nicole is blessed to have you as a MIL too.
Carol says
This post was a great way to start my day. It reminds me of how blessed I am also with the wives my three sons have chosen. It certainly does add a lot of joy to life!
Helene says
You are always so wonderfully positive. It’s a joy to read your blog and all your goings on. It’s good to know that Chad and Nicole will use their goodness in raising their daughter.