There are people in this world who find joy in all circumstances, who rejoice in every day simply because. This is Judy, my mother-in-law. You would be hard-pressed to find another person who loves fun more than she does. She feels everything so very deeply, her love for all of us is bold and strong and faithful. That love is given freely to any and all who cross her path – it is an inspiration.
This is how I got Judy’s entry:
There is something so beautiful about the written word… we miss that in the blog world sometimes. Especially with handwriting like hers, it is just lovely. This is her story, (mostly) transcribed by me.
– – – – – – – – – – – – – –
I can’t remember how I knew Maggie was in labor. Johnny must have phoned. I do recall wondering why it was taking so long. I recall the “mom” in me starting to worry… I recall checking the clock… and I recall saying a prayer.
I think I stayed strong for him and said all the “right” things, but honestly, my heart hurt for Maggie, Ellie, and Johnny! It hurt bad. On the drive to the hospital, my mind and emotions flew. Question after question…. Will she need surgeries? Will she ride a bike? Will she be in school? Boyfriends? “Regular” friends? Will people hurt her?
I had myself knotted up in a wad and told God, “this is not fair! It’s not right! How can you do this to this strong and loving family!?” In my heart, God answered me, saying it was because of this exact reason that he sent Tessa Lynn to them. OK.
So, we arrived at the hospital just as Johnny and Maggie were headed down to the NICU, where Tessa was. We had a brief hug fest and went to wait in Maggie’s room. Mags’ mom was there. She was calm and “normal” and I was anything but! She quietly shared information, some she knew and some she researched, with Larry and I. Then she smiled and said, “this is not Tessa with Down syndrome. This baby is just Tessa Lay.” It was a comment that made my complicated simple. Her gentle perspective was not lost on me. (Thanks, Mimi!)
When the parents came back, Mags was just like her mom and I chuckle because Johnny was just like me. We had calm and crazy times two! John seemed to flit in all directions and was unable to stay still. I hurt for my kids, but tried hard to focus on my earlier conversation with God back in the car. They are a very strong and loving couple who can do this, and they will do this well!
At some point, Johnny, his father-in-law Tony, and I went to the NICU to meet our girl. As John and I walked, I reminded him to live by the words that are tattooed on his arm: Be strong and courageous, do not be discouraged, for the Lord will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)
We entered the NICU room. Lots of tubes and beeps and equipment. Under the blue light for jaundice lay our girl!
In checking her out further, I saw her open hand (I, personally, love childrens’ hands! 🙂 ). Hers was open, just like baby Jesus in every Nativity that you see. Not a tight fist… open. I took that as my invitation and placed my index finger in her palm and I smiled as the little fingers closed snugly around mine.
I love her, and her mom and dad, and her big sister always and forever, no matter what! I thank God for His wisdom daily in sending her to us. She is a fabulous addition to our family. Perfect.
Yo soy La Lay 
“Tessa Lynn Lay. Perfect.” indeed! Beautiful Oma!
I am loving these reflections from your family. So beautiful. This made me cry.
I am so glad that Tessa, and you, have such an amazing and supportive family.
I love to hear about your family’s strong supportive response to the diagnosis. The positive outlook all of you have is amazing. I have to admit to some twinges of jealousy when reading the last 2 entries. I so wish I had the kind of support your mother and mother-in-law showed you from day one. You and your family are so blessed by them both!
Ohmygoodness. That last picture brought a tear to my eye. Priceless.
Your mother in law writes beautifully as well. This one made me cry too. You are truly blessed with both of these women in your lives.