This is my mother. She left me when I was just 14 years old. I saw her a few times from teenage through the typical college years (although I didn’t have typical college years) and then she passed away before I married or had children. She was a wonderful woman that I know I would talk to her often if she were alive, but I really never got the chance.

The most current entries are things I would tell her and only her ... because they aren’t meant to be heard, just vented (if she were alive). The majority of this blog are letters she wrote to me (and a few to my sisters) during the years that we were apart.

Monday, September 27, 1982

September 27, 1982

Dear Sally,

I am here in Virginia to see the girls.  I just saw Sandy's psychologist with Garry.  She is returning to Toledo with me at the advice of the doctor.  Garry took it very well.  You are the first to know.  I called Bob but no answer.  She wants to live with me so much.  It will really be crowded in our 2 bedroom 1 bath apartment but Bob and I will try to make a good home for her.  Bob is going to hear the missionary lessons.   Pray that he believes.

I have been in this motel 6 days.  My parents were here 3 days with my Great Aunt Ida.  Betsy became Worthy Advisor of Rainbow Girls and I installed her.  I flew here and will fly back tomorrow with Sandy.  I will seek permanent custody of her.  She has a lot of faith - so do I.

The girls just came to visit.  Betsy says to have Ginny write.  Sandy is in the process of writing Ginny.  Please write her at my address.

Our weather is 70.  It is pretty good for my feet and legs.  My poor stomach hurts a lot lately. So much has happened.  I love to Book you gave me.  Sandy goes to Seminary every morning here but only once a week in Toledo.  We leave at 9 AM out of Washington, DC tomorrow.  I hope and pray Sandy will be happy with Bob and me.

How have you been?  I miss you so much.  I made my best friends.  Please write me encouragement with the church.

I can hardly believe the children have grown so much.  Mine have too.

Well, I am excited about getting Sandy home to me.  I hope she can get the love she needs from me and Bob.  My stomach really hurts.  Garry will take us to the airport.  Poor Sandy.  She has really suffered.  I pray she'll be happy and well.  She looks so good.

Well, I will write again soon.  Please write me.  I need encouragement and strength more than ever.

Remember I miss you and all my friends.  Say "hi" to them for me.  I love you, friend.

Love
Judy