Nancy was the first person I met after we moved to Arizona. She was friendly and helpful and understanding of me, a young homeschooling wife and mom with two young children, who moved to a new, unfamiliar state. For three months I didn't realize she was the mother of eight well-mannered children ages two years through sixteen years-old.
She and her family offered our family free babysitting, help with moving, used clothes, toys, prayers, food, homeschool materials, birthday gifts, Christmas gifts, beautiful birthday cakes, rides everywhere. . . invited me to a mom's night out (just Nancy and me), and more. This is in addition to her teaching me about the food bank, thrift stores, yard sales, etc. and how to provide for my family like she provided for hers. I've never watched anyone before live out all the words written in Proverbs 31. She, her husband, and all eight of her children give and give and give knowing me or my family couldn't ever repay.
Shortly after I met her, she was diagnosed with Lymphoma Cancer. She said it was nothing to worry about now, she would be around for at least ten more years. I kept her in my prayers.
As time went on, we continuted to foster our friendship and I was able to help her family out when they were in need. I couldn't do much. I was now in a position to realize how much she and her family have done for my family and I used the skills she taught me.
Nancy's personality could be loud and brutally honest at times. Without warning, she would grab your hand and start a prayer no matter where you were. Many times we stood in the middle of a thrift store in prayer, people shopping around us. I learned to appreciate this because it was always the truth and encouragement I needed to hear, even if I didn't think she should have said it at the time.
There are so many examples of Nancy's outpouring of love, it's hard to capture it on this page. December 30, 2006, my friend and mentor, Nancy, went home to be with the Lord.
Even in her death it is easy to see evidence of her life and legacy. I was looking around my house today and took a quick inventory and there's something in each room of my house that means something to me because she brought it to me.
More important than things is the evidence I see in her children. They are still offering to help our family. They are the most kind, well-mannered children and young adults I know. The older ones have gone through college and/or have a good job. They all work together as a family and help in the community. If only I could be half as good a parent as Nancy and her husband are!
Pamm's House is an attempt to share with others in the same way Nancy has shared with me. I don't think Nancy ever used the internet, but when I explained what I was doing with Pamm's House, she was quick with suggestions and encouragement. The whole Toddler Curriculum is because of a seed Nancy planted over the past eleven and a half years.
To sign off as Nancy always did . . .
Because of Jesus,
Pamm
