Today, in honor of her 81st birthday, I would like to say that I'm thankful for my mother-in-law, Jackie Stiles.
I met Jackie on Easter Sunday in 1986. She was as nice as could be to me that day and has been just as nice ever since. I have felt like part of her family since that very first day. I've often said that the best thing about Willard is his family. (Just kidding, honey) I hear "mother-in-law" stories and I can't even relate. I could not ask for a better mother-in-law.
Jackie cautioned me over and over during my courtship with Willard about marrying a Garnett. She kept saying, "I'm warning you... he's a Garnett. They're all stubborn and hard to get along with. Don't say I didn't warn you". Haha.
Jackie is the kind of mother/mother-in-law/grandmother who puts everybody else's needs before her own. She is the epitome of a selfless woman. She's the peacemaker in a family of... well, Garnett's. And since I'm outnumbered, that's all I'm gonna say about that. :)
It has always annoyed Jackie that her son was given the nickname of Willard. His REAL name is Christopher Scott. He got the nickname of Willard when he was a young teen and it just stuck. Jackie was a Wal-Mart greeter for several years, and people would come up to her and say "Are you Willard's mother?". She would smile sweetly and say "I wouldn't name a DOG Willard... I'm Chris' mother". Now might be a good time to mention that Jackie's REAL name is Stella Mae.... but they call her Jackie. Hmmm.
Happy Birthday, Me-Maw! I am thankful for you!
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