Thursday, February 21, 2008

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEAR NONNIE!


February 22nd is a very special day. No...not because of anything to do with George Washington. Tomorrow will mark the day back in 1938 when my mom was born as a very tiny pre-mature baby in Anson, TX. She was born at home and my grandparents put her in a shoe box and placed her in front of a wood burning stove to keep her warm. Ever since then, Judy Thomas has been not only a survivor, but also one who THRIVES!

Mom is a joyful person--ever positive, always encouraging. She's always avoided negative talk. She loves to laugh. She loves to read. Her expertise in Children's Literature has kept her in the book game and has definitely benefited our family. Our kids love to get books from Nonnie.

Mom is a true friend. Watching my parents in their friendships affected me tremendously growing up. I saw the value of good friends. I saw the value of sharing hearts.

Her positive qualities only seemed to boil over as our children came into this world. They view trips to Nonnie's house as one of their favorite treats. I love how she will sit and have tea parties with Ella or help Maddie dress her dolls. I love how wildly in love she is with our Sam.

One of my mom's favorite poems is "Warning" by Jenny Joseph.

Warning
When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.
And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves
And satin sandles, and say we've no money for butter.
I shall sit down on the pavement when I'm tired
And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells
And run my stick along the public railings
And make up for the sobriety of my youth.
I shall go out in my slippers in the rain
And pick flowers in other people's gardens
And learn to spit...

The poem goes on. I love that my mom loves that poem. In real life, my mom is a completely generous, Christ-like, meek spirited woman. She is full of Godly wisdom and grace. She is a life-long learner. She loves long and deeply. Her spirit is that of a 25 year old. Her wisdom is that of a 90 year old.

Mom, though you are only turning 70, I fully expect to see you don a purple suit and a red hat. Your life has touched many. I am so thankful for you and your influence in my life. I am so grateful that you are shaping the lives of my children. I am so grateful for your dear friendship with Sheryl.

May you have the happiest of birthdays tomorrow. If anyone deserves it, YOU do! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

6 comments:

LeeAnn said...

Happy Birthday Miss Judy. Hope your day is full of fun and family. I love that poem and it reminds me of another 70 something wonderful mom...mine! Enjoy your day!

judy thomas said...

Dear Babe,

Thank you for those wonderful comments. Now I know what "paragon" means--It would be nice if it were all true. The truth is, your children not only see the good things in you, but also observe the bad times.

I am thankful there have not been enough of those for you to see a permanent slant in my personality.

I adore you and Sheryl and the children!!!And I am so glad to be living in Nashville where I can see you more often.

Love, Mom

Josh Ross said...

Judy Thomas belongs in Proverbs 31 and Hebrews 11. She is one of my heroes of faith. I love you, Judy.

Colter & Elizabeth Lewis said...

Your mom has always been a great inspiration for people! I did not know her as well as many at ACU, but this post is a great testament to her faith and influence in your life. I'm sure that it made her smile, and I suspect that there are LOTS of folks that could echo your sentiment.
-C

maryann said...

Brandon,
What a blessing your mother is to so many.......she is one that when she speaks, my mind and heart take heed to and I hold to her words. Happy Birthday, Judy.

Gary said...

I think the smiles on your kids faces tell the whole story about your mom! They are full of delight - and that comes from being loved completely and unconditionally. Your sweet Maddie, Ella and Sam are blessed to be surrounded by the love of a wonderful grandmother, especially when she is such a big part of their lives. You are a lucky man!