Judy and Ken Free
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Forty seven years married to the man I love, two children, six beautiful grandchildren, a career and a lot of water under the bridge and suddenly, here I am at my 50th High School reunion. My blessings are many and I am grateful for a wonderful life and the privilege of being alive. My nursing education brought many opportunities to me and I was able to take early retirement from my position as Director of Patient Records and Accounts at a large medical center in the Seattle area about 12 years ago. Since retirement, I have found that I’m busier than ever doing the things I love. Pursuing my artistic interests, I enjoy oil painting, silk painting, and creative sewing. But I also volunteer in a variety of ways including Pastoral Care at our church and serving on the Board of a non-profit organization, FUSION, which is unique to the Federal Way community. We own 16 homes and provide transitional housing and services to homeless families. This has been a very fulfilling outlet for me and I am proud of the work we do and the overall positive effect we have on the lives of these families.
Judy
Our grandchildren range in age from 12 to 20, three girls and three boys. The two oldest girls are currently attending Washington State University. We enjoy each and every moment we can capture with each one of them considering their lives are so full and busy.
Judy, girls and Judy's original art
Ken and I find that our favorite place on earth is HOME. We live on a small lake in the Auburn area and we refer to home as our “resort”. It is peaceful and beautiful and we are blessed with the daily presence of many of God’s creatures including eagles, beavers, turtles and a wide variety of birds.
Judy reading in a favorite spot
I have recently completed and published my memoir, “Memories in My Closet”. I know it sounds strange but I have always loved fashion and for some reason I remember what I was wearing for most major, and some not so major events in my life. I have written and illustrated the book as a gift to my family. I feel it is important for all of us to write “our stories” so our future great grandchildren will know who we were and what was important to us. So I leave you with this advice—write it down and share it. You are one of a kind and—You are a RICHLAND BOMBER!