Judy is a parent educator, family coach, and personal historian who has written over 20 books, hundreds of articles and speaks internationally on family issues, including caregiving. Trained as a ready-to-learn consultant, she works with Head Start organizations and child care resource centers. She also volunteers time writing end-of-life stories for Hospice.
She and Dwain, her husband of 40 years, have six grown children and seven grandchildren. They consider their greatest success in life that their children like themselves and each other. The honorary title of “Auntie” is given in many cultures to the wise women who guide and mentor others in life.
The artichoke also became a teaching lesson when Judy, with her young family, moved into military housing in California to find Artichokes in their yard. Given that it takes two years for the vegetable to flower, the original gardener never got to see the seeds of her labor. Many times, our actions and reactions in life are felt by people we will never meet, but we plant the seeds of kindness anyway.
The symbol of the artichoke has great meaning in her teaching and writing. As she works with families, she sees frequently only the outer edges are exposed and can be prickly, hard to open, and sometimes bitter to the taste. They are closed to new ideas or methods. Many families prefer the known over the unknown, even when the old patterns and skills are not serving them well.
But, as you expose the artichoke and people to warmth, caring, and time, gradually the leaves begin to open and expose the real treasure—the heart.
You will enjoy Judy’s approachable manner, wonderful storytelling, and common-sense solutions gleaned from working with hundreds of families and organizations just like yours. Your encounter with Judy will leave you feeling inspired, entertained, and especially motivated. Visit Judy’s website http://www.ArtichokePress.com for excellent references and a full listing of books, workshop topics, tele-classes, and testimonials.
To make arrangements for your group or organization to enjoy having Judy present a keynote address, workshop, or training session, please contact her at 406-549-9813