JOAN

Joan is the name of my mother-in-law. Just for the record, Joan is a two syllable name (pronounced JoAnn). Most people get that wrong until they hear someone call her name. I guess that it took me a while to get used to that at first too. Anyway, I have known her for almost thirty years and well... I am pretty lucky to have her!

I remember meeting her for the first time (as Allen's "friend") when we were dating. We came to their house after a date and Allen's parents invited me inside for pie. OH, MY GOODNESS!!! PIE WITH DR. AND MRS. MORK???!!! I was scared to death and I didn't really want to go in. Of course, I had nothing to worry about because they were both extremely kind and accepting. In the end, it all seemed to work out fine and here we are almost 30 years later!

Let me tell you a little bit about Allen's mom. She grew up in Worthington, she is an accomplished pianist and teacher (frankly, the best that I know) and she married her high school sweetheart who happens to be Dr. Mork. They had three biological children and adopted 3 children (all at different times). If you know me at all, you know that those things describe me too. (Well...I'm not exactly an accomplished pianist, but I do at least have a some interest in that area...) So...we really do have a lot in common and I consider her a valuable resource.

Anyway, today I drove to St. Cloud to have lunch with Joan. I am embarrassed to say that lunch was a belated Mothers' Day gift to her. She didn't seem to mind. The food was quite good, but the conversation was even better. We talked quite a bit about the adoption. Allen's mom is a good listener. As interested as people are, most do not want to sit and hear about the adoption for an hour or more. She has insight from her experiences that most people would never think of. Raising three boys has also put her high on my resource list! I am glad to know that she is in my corner and ready to welcome 3 new grand kids into the family! Thanks, Joan. It was a great day!