Jayleen Tjoelker impacted my life greatly. I spent countless hours in the Tjoelkers home as a girl and teen, including many late nights!
I also worked for Jayleen during my HS years.
She was full of life and personality and she laughed a lot!
Lissa's friendship blessed me in so many ways and her friendship to this day is one of my GREATEST blessings.
When I was in kindergarten, Jayleen invited all of us Ebenezer kinders over to ride ponies in their corral. This was an absolute highlight. Bud and Jay drove a big van with a GOD IS GOOD bumper sticker. That van took me to ball games, K-mart, a sunrise Easter morning service, Sprouse Reitz many times, and the list goes on.
I remember being at Bud and Jay's - so often Jayleen was crocheting. I also remember her making candy trains - boxes of them - to sell at the Ebenezer bazaar. Jayleen was a huge support to Ebenezer as a person and through her donated crafts.
When our mom passed away suddenly, Jayleen reached out in big powerful ways. I was so thankful for her being giving of her time and praying for us all.
When Merit was born, she crocheted him the most adorable baby blue sweater.
As the years went on, Jayleen was so invested in her kids and her grandkids. She was so happy to talk about them and to be with them.
After my Grandpa Ken passed, Bud and Jay were in a small group - through church - with my grandma Al,ma. Grandma loved her time with them.
I drove to the service alone on Friday morning and the time of reflection was so important. The funeral was absolutely beautiful! Lesha leaned in and said "you know if Grandma were still here she would would be here" which I knew....
I enjoyed a quick lunch with my sisters at Fairway Cafe after the service and got back on the road. Again, quiet time being therapeutic.
On Saturday I traveled to Spokane. I was able to talk to Lissa on the phone a good portion of my drive.
This week is so full! Lots of baseball, track, teaching, and my garden starts in my greenhouse are ready to find new homes!!
Find Joy in the Journey
Old brick homes
Weathered sheds
A cloudy day and
BASEBALL
the best!
