I’m so glad you were born 75 years ago. Your coming into this world has been a tremendous blessing to me and to my family in so many ways. Here are just a few for which I’m especially thankful.

Most important to me is the way you’ve been a friend to my Dad since the death of my Mom. You’ve come along beside him at a time that could have been the loneliest of his life. But because of you, these years for him have been just the opposite: full of countless hours of friendship, joy and love. I can’t think of anyone else who could have done for him what you’ve done for him over the years.

You’re a true blessing, Mary Lou, not only to Dad, but also to others. You’ve helped people who were sick, when they’ve needed a helping hand. You’ve helped people in nursing homes when they could no longer help themselves. You’ve helped at your church, you’ve helped in your community, you’ve helped you family and you’ve helped us. You embody one of the most impressive traits of a Christian: that of helping others. You are the most helpful woman I know.

You’re also one of the best cooks I know! When I asked the kids about their favorite memories of you, they all mentioned at least one thing that involved food! Karis remembers the milk and cookies you always gave them when they came to your house. Lucas remembers the apple salads you made for him. Makari remembers the s’mores you made for her by the fire at the farm. I remember your pot roasts that melt in your mouth and Lana remembers your creamy, augratin potatoes. In fact, Lana says she can’t remember you ever fixing something she didn’t like!

You’re also one of the most punctual people I know! If you’ve ever been late for anything in your life, you’ve kept it a secret! You’re up early, you plan ahead and you make sure things happen on time or ahead of time. You’re impeccably neat as well. Everything about you is neat, clean and orderly, from your house and your clothes to your beautiful yard and flowers.

You always remember our birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions with a card, a gift or a special “little something” to make us feel loved. I don’t know how many birthday parties you’ve been to in your lifetime, but I know you’ve been to dozens of ours! One of the most special memories we’ll always cherish is spending Christmas mornings with you and Dad. Of all the thoughtful presents you’ve given us over the years, the one we appreciate most is simply your “presence.” You’ve been there for us more times than I can count.

You were there for us when we were looking for a place to live (and found us a perfect, little pink house with a swimming pool just a block away from you). You were there for us when Lana and I needed someone to watch the kids so we could go out on occasional dates. You were there for us when Lana had her miscarriages. You were there for us when Dad had his throat surgery. You were there for us when Dad had his heart surgery, making many trips to the hosptial and taking care of him as he recovered. I’ll always remember praying with you in the waiting room while we waited for the doctor’s report. Thank you Mary Lou for always “being there” for us.

You’ve been such a blessing to us and you’ll always have a special place in our hearts.

I’m thankful to God that you were born 75 years ago. And I’m thankful to YOU that you’ve done so much with your life to help so many. You really are the most helpful woman I know.

With much love,
Eric

To read more from this series, "Ephesians: Lessons In Grace," click here.