I met Judy in the 80's, she was that vibrant aerobics teacher at Padonia Fitness Center, the class that everyone wanted to take. I remember her as this bouncy little thing that had everyone happy and motivated to be the best they could. Years passed, we each got married, started our families and went in different but similar directions. Judy and I caught up again when Reece and Sophia were little lacrosse players, probably 5 years old. We would talk and laugh at practice, try to watch the girls and also laugh at Alex and Trace while they "played" lacrosse or soccer. I remember Trace being 3 and wearing these tiny cleats. I just loved our times together, we always had so much to talk about. We arranged playdates with our boys, held them at different houses. Never enough time for all of us moms to catch up. I remember running into Judy at my Uncle Johnny Lambros' viewing and being so surprised that she had babysat for my cousin Valerie. You never knew everything about Judy. She never ceased to amaze me. Over the years, our friendship evolved from our children's sporting events. I started working out Judy and a wonderful group of women at the MAC. I immediately felt so welcome in this group that had been together for years. Thats how Judy is, everyone is her BEST friend. I was lucky enough to have lunch with Judy less then two weeks before she passed away. One would think that it would have been hard knowing that the person your with was in their last phase of her life. It was not. We laughed, we cried, we talked about CaringOn, Drew, Reece and Trace. and how much she loves them. We talked about dying, we talked and talked. AND, Judy ate and ate- she actually ordered two meals and ate both. She texted me later saying how much fun she had and couldn't wait to do it again.
This morning I was talking to my son about my friendship with Judy. Alex was saying he felt bad for Trace and wasn't sure how he would let him know, how difficult it is for little guys to express their sorrow. We talked about her legacy and how she touched so many people. We both decided that we can keep Judy's legacy alive by living and sharing joy like Judy did everyday, Smile and be nice to everyone.
Drew, Reece and Trace, thank you for sharing Judy with all of us this past week. I will always cherish my times with your wife and mother. Thank you. I know Judy is in a better place smiling at all of us. May God bless you and keep you safe and may Judy's memory be eternal. xoxox Staci Klima
