Remembering a Proverbs 31 Mother-in-law

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

A wife of noble character who can find?

Granddad claimed Grandma for his wife, while in their late teens - they were engaged and married within a few short weeks of each turning 20.

    She is worth far more than rubies.

I don't know that Grandma had any rubies - but one of her treasures was a very unique mother’s ring. It was all shades of blue – Sapphire, two Aquamarine and Turquoise. (The turquoise was within 24 hours be being a Garnet!)

Her husband has full confidence in her
    and lacks nothing of value.

Granddad’s devotion to Grandma was evident and constant for 67 years. They were among the richest people on the planet – because the things most important are priceless.

She brings him good, not harm,
    all the days of her life.

Grandma was a care-taker and Granddad was always well cared for. In sickness and in health – all the days of his life.

She selects wool and flax
    and works with eager hands.

From sewing dresses for her girls when they were young to making quilts for all her family members – Grandma’s hands were seldom still. Every Clouse descendant knows that "A Quilt is a Blanket of Love".

She is like the merchant ships,
    bringing her food from afar.

When Grandma and Granddad would come to visit us, there was always a cardboard box of homemade provisions. Pumpkin Bread, Apple Crisp, Freezer Corn, Cookies - as well as peanut m&m’s and cheese balls.

She gets up while it is still night;
    she provides food for her family

Grandma worked many years outside her home as well as inside – She partnered with Granddad in providing their income. And he in turn helped her with domestic chores. Any guess as to how many gallons of homemade ice cream they made together?

    and portions for her female servants.

That would be Diane. She may have been a bit of a surprise 58 years ago – but God gave that precious bonus baby to Donald and Juanita, knowing she would give back to them tenfold…. And over the past 40 years, she has.

She considers a field and buys it;
    out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

From those vineyards she made homemade jam and from the garden…. (Oh, the garden!) …. canned vegetables … freezer corn… pickles and tomato juice (my favorite). Did you know onions and potatoes can last all winter, hanging in the cellar knotted in nylon stockings?

She sets about her work vigorously;
    her arms are strong for her tasks.

Grandma’s work for many years was as a home health aide. She went into the homes of her clients, helping them with household duties, cleaning, cooking, as well as bathing. God indeed gave her strong arms and in return, she served others with them.

She sees that her trading is profitable,
    and her lamp does not go out at night.

It’s true – Grandma always had a nightlight on (hallway and bathroom). She even traveled with one.

In her hand she holds the distaff
    and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

Whether a sewing machine, yarn or embroidery floss – Grandma was no stranger to thread and needles! She always had a project of some kind going.

She opens her arms to the poor
    and extends her hands to the needy.

She fed the hungry, visited the sick, helped clothe the naked. In the Matthew 25 parable – Grandma was definitely a sheep.She served God as she helped others.

When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
    for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

For years, both Grandma and Granddad would meet the Iowa winters head on… without benefit of a garage for most of them. They often forded out to meet friends for dinner on a snowy Friday night or to replenish their stash of library books! 

She makes coverings for her bed;
    she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

It’s amazing how often King Solomon talks about Grandma’s quilts! And yes – she was well dressed – complete with jewelry. She always “matched” and looked her best.

Her husband is respected at the city gate,
    where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

Granddad did serve on city boards – and was well admired for his integrity and character. Grandma was always proud and happy to be the woman behind her man.

She makes linen garments and sells them,
    and supplies the merchants with sashes.

I’m not sure if Grandma ever did seamstress work for hire but her many crafts and baked goods brought top dollar at charity auctions and church bazaars. Her cinnamon rolls were epic.

She is clothed with strength and dignity;
    she can laugh at the days to come.

Strength and dignity – excellent descriptors and I would recognize her laugh anywhere (heard often in card games or watching her grandchildren).

She speaks with wisdom,
    and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Her wisdom came from experience and her instructions made better wives for her son and sons-in-law. When in doubt, “Call Grandma”.

She watches over the affairs of her household
    and does not eat the bread of idleness.

In all fairness – Grandma was seldom idle. She knew how to work hard, but she knew how to relax as well. She knew the importance of self-care in a weekly hair appointment. If ice skating was on TV – Grandma and Granddad were tuned in (with the VCR recording so they could watch it again later). She loved a road trip, be it to New York, Eastern Iowa, or Branson. She didn’t have a fondness for airports but she was always 'ready to go'. It usually took them most of a day to travel to Eastern Iowa (less than a 4 hour drive) as they had stops to make along the way: Coffee, lunch, pie, Amana shops. They always took time to smell the roses.

Her children arise and call her blessed;
    her husband also, and he praises her:
“Many women do noble things,
    but you surpass them all.”

Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, in-laws, out-laws, nieces, nephews and friends most certainly sing her praise. Eighty-eight years of life well-lived – a woman well-loved. Yes, we arise and call her blessed, for she has blessed us all.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
    but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Honor her for all that her hands have done,
    and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Last night, Grandma entered the Gates of Heaven. I know awaiting her were throngs of those, who have gone on before. I can imagine the clamor between Granddad and Grandma Velma as to who would get to her first. What sweet reunion.  For those of us who remain, we will forever be impacted by the life she lived, the love she gave, and the legacy she leaves. Rest well Grandma – until we meet again.