Paula, Steve, Dan and Tom - your mom was such a blessing to so many. When I was directing Care Net, and we were doing a complete buildout for a new center, I was completely overwhelmed. Your sweet mother agreed to be my "interior decorator". Somehow she took the odd and diverse assortment of furnishings donated by area businesses and private donors and created a beautiful, warm atmosphere that welcomed and blessed so many clients. From flooring to draperies to wall colors and accessories, your mom fearlessly led the way. She had this gentle, diplomatic way of steering me in the right direction, all the while making it seem like I was making all the right decisions. I remember her telling me that all we had to do was "blend"--and she was right! I can't tell you how many times we laughed over what we had to work with, and always she would assure me that we'd "make it work". And she did. She scoured local business and found inexpensive items to fill in what was lacking. She dickered with various vendors until she got what she envisioned. She worked with grace and humor and patience, never looking for recognition--just gladly using her gifts so that weary and desperate moms could find a place of refuge. I treasure the memories of her from that crazy year. What a beautiful woman!
Love and prayers,
Judy Van Swol