Audrey, Our Gift

Something quite significant happened in our little family this week. We had to let our wonderful babysitter go. We celebrated her 15th birthday on the 4th of June, and of course, that's when you join the adult work force on the colony. She will now be working, eating, worshiping, and socializing with the adults.
She has been a part of our family since she was 9 years old, taking care of Judas soon after he was born and then later Hans. She came every day to feed the boys at suppertime and looked after them during Sunday and evening church services, plus trips and different colony jobs like gardening, canning, butchering, and cook and back weeks. Sometimes I simply don't know what I'd have done without her.
Her mother (Margret) 'gave' her to me when they still had a child under the age of 5 at their home. In my eyes it was a pretty big sacrifice since they would have needed her as well. I have always been thankful for it and can only hope that if I ever have the chance to be as generous that I won't forget.
It's a bit sad to see her go because I really miss her but I'm a little proud too. Just because I've had the privilege to see her grow lovely and beautiful as a flower and now that she's unfolded before me I get to enjoy the fragrance she spreads all around her. It's just too lovely!!
Here are a few paragraphs from the letter of thanks I sent along with her gift. All she ever needed to do was look after my boys, but she did so much more. There will never be another like her.

You can take a lot of the credit for how quick our boys learned to throw, catch, kick, bat, and skate because you always played with them instead of just sitting around. You've helped them be good sports in baseball, soccer, volley and floor hockey and I'm sure that's not the only reason you will be greatly missed.
You have no idea how much we appreciate all the time you spent cleaning the living room, kitchen, bookshelf and much more. It never went unnoticed especially in a cook and bake week when it was neglected from all angles. That dear is not half the story, but we can't remember asking you to do those things once. You did it all without being told and without complaining, never once did you roll your eyes, clinch a fist, or give any sarcastic comments. Your dedication has been a great blessing to us.





We also want to thank you for the fact that we were always able to trust you in our house, not only did you never snoop or invade out privacy but there were always other kids here that you kept honest and respectful and made sure that nothing was damaged. It is no small quality to be dependable and trustworthy, so thank you that we could leave you in charge without worrying about a thing.
The greatest treasure of all, Audrey, is that you have always been a good example to our boys and your influence is something we hope they will never forget. You never let them get away with doing things that were wrong and that says a lot about the person you are. It shows us how hard you try to keep your own heart pure and leaves footprints behind you that are well worth following.

If it weren't for Audrey

If it weren't for Audrey we wouldn't know how to bat or through a ball as well as we do.
If it weren't for Audrey our mom would be on drugs for stress.
If it weren't for Audrey we wouldn't be half the good sports that we are.
If it weren't for Audrey we would have missed a lot of fun.
If it weren't for Audrey we wouldn't know a lot of good games.
If it weren't for Audrey we wouldn't know how to pray.
If it weren't for Audrey we would have missed some good, hearty, laughs.
If it weren't for Audrey we wouldn't have a friend for life.