Ridgell's Originals

 OK I may be stretching the definition of Mom a little bit but here is the shout out to nine women I have incredible respect for what they have done, what they are doing, and what they will do.

Marsha's Mom, Jean Herttenberger.  Granny did a great job raising my wife.  Sweet, loving, kind, and committed to Jesus.  She is in heaven but her legacy will go for at least two or more generations.

My Mom, Juanita Ridgell.  She is still going strong at 91.  She is the one all the women in our family look up to as a role model.  Smart, active, engaged.  Makes people feel valued and welcome.  Loves Jesus.

My wife Marsha.  Mimi is the best.  Great daughter.  Outstanding wife.  Fantastic Mom.  Best Mimi.  Great friend to many.  Adopted Mom to lots.  Loves Jesus.

Our two girls, Julie Cope and Jamie Ridgell.  Strong women.  Raising kids.  Good wives.  We have great confidence that they will take care of us when we are old.  Older.  Love Jesus.

Anna Ridgell and Avery Gilbreth.  Our granddaughters.  And no, they are not literally Moms.  But they are already so great with younger kids.  Little girls adore them and want to be like them.  They are growing in their faith.  Love Jesus.

Phyllis and Juana.  OK.  Phyllis is Marsha's sister and doesn't have kids.  But she takes care of all our animals when we are gone.  Helps take care of my Mom.  Just cares for people.  Loves Jesus.  And Juana is family.  I think she is technically our housekeeper.  but it is more like she helps out around the house and we help out financially.  Our kids are her kids.  She prayers for us and gives the girls good advice.  And she loves Jesus.

So what makes these women special to me?  And to so many others.

Love Jesus.

Love their family.

Love everybody.

Be good role models.

Thanks God for the Moms in my life.

# posted by Steve @ 5:00 AM