Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Being an Aunt

For me it's a great joy!































































































































































What can be more important than pouring into our youth--really? I have 26 nephews and nieces, 20 others that my sister, Robin, have fostered, a large number of young people at our churches, and others that I meet daily.

Let's be more conscious of our young people. Let's be more patient, more understanding, and more loving. Let's also expect more from them. How else can we better prepare them personally and professionally to be better dads, moms, entrepreneurs, employees, and responsible citizens?

8 comments:

Dave Wheeler said...

Auntie Judith,

How special is that? I am not sure that one could invest their time in a better place than making a difference in the lives of young folks.

I did notice one young lady wearing a Henderson State t-shirt. That's only about 45 miles from here. Is that the niece who plays basketball here in Arkansas?

Judith Ellis said...

Yes, Dave, I posted that photo for you. :-) That's my niece Jazmine and she is a very fine basketball player.

Jaz was a freshman starter last year. She has picked up weight over the last three years as she lost her dad. But she is pulling through much better and we are loving on her even more.

We are grateful that her second week of her freshman year she met a wonderful 73 year old Irish-American grandmother who lovingly looks after her there in Arkansas. She's actually there now. We are blessed for this.

Dave Wheeler said...

Judith,

It is great indeed she met a person to look after her. My oldest grandson is a basketball fanatic and a trip to see the Lady Reddies play this upcoming season will happen for sure.

Judith Ellis said...

Great! If you get a chance do stop in and introduce yourself and grandson. Let me know and I'll give her a call. Maybe the girls can sign a T-shirt for him. Is this the grandson that plays on a mixed girls and boys soceer team? I love to watch the wee ones running around the soccer field chasing the ball and falling all over each other. They're too cute! This grandson's a bit older I think.

Dave Wheeler said...

Judith,

He's 8 and was playing on a co-ed flag football league. He played in a division that had kids 8-12 in it and his team got beat by a team of four girls and 1 boy 63-0. He has gained a healthy respect and appreciation for the skills of the young ladies who play in his league.

He is looking forward to making the trip to Arkadelphia. I'll let you know when we have the date.

Judith Ellis said...

Dave - The respect your grandson is gaining for girls is super! Let me know before you head to the game. Maybe I'll make a trip to see her play too. After all, I am the rooting raging aunt who is often in the stands. I remember when here sister, Cortne, was getting recruited like crazy and I was usually at the game when her team, Michigan State, played my alma mater, Michigan, and it was always tough. I always rooted for her, but I remained passionate about my team. My family would make a big joke at these games and watch my every reaction. They were just terrible!

Dave Wheeler said...

Judith,

Will do! A rooting and raging Auntie would be a terrific sight to see.

Not surprising one as passionate as you about so many things would be a hoops fan!

Judith Ellis said...

I'm a big time hoops fan! A football fan too! The Oakland Raiders has long been our family team and I know you're a big fan of the Raiders too.