A tree is known by it’s fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love. –St. Basil

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Her birthday isn’t until late in December, and the truth of the matter is, I just don’t have the patience to wait any more to tell you about my dear friend, Chris Helt. She’s the beautiful gal on the far left in this picture above of me with some of my favorite women on the planet! As the hats seem to indicate, we were ringing in the New Year! Since this time of the night on New Year’s Eve is not known for producing the best photos, I’m going to share one more. Below, you will find a photo of Chris with her two terrific sons and her very amusing husband, Rhys!

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Chris is a tennis lover who lives on a big, beautiful piece of land near Noblesville. She lives to care for her family, including her mom (who lives with them) and she’s crazy about her horses. She’s always anxious to send us photos of her new colts when they are born. Here’s the thing about Chris. She has a heart the size of Indiana and she is full of positivity. I read this quote recently, which is why I wanted to take a moment to talk about my friend “Chrissy”. I read it, and I thought….I think he’s talking about her.

“Let us be loving and humble of heart toward all, but particularly those closest to us; let us walk together in peace, supporting one another, without giving way in times of trials, and never losing heart.” –St. Francis de Sales

Rarely have I ever encountered someone who more completely loves her ENTIRE family the way Chris does. She wanted to make sure her mom was supported and surrounded by love, so she moved her in. She embraces all the extended Helt clan with ferocious love. I don’t think I know anyone who loves their in-laws like Chris does. It’s so awesome. No bigger mama bear can be found then she is to her two handsome sons, Rhett and Rhye. She’s a gracious, kind and very accepting soul.

When my oldest sons graduated from Guerin Catholic, BOTH years we had a grand party at the Helt Farm. Who invites 500 people to trollop all over their gorgeous property for hours? Chris Helt does, that’s who! She’s BEYOND gracious and welcoming. She’s the same crazy mom who spent so many years in frozen ice rinks for the sake of her youngest and smelly hoops gyms for her oldest….in her humble and unassuming way. The way she loves and supports others is heartwarming to witness.

Winter of 2019 wasn’t my best. There was health drama and medical testing out the ying-yang. She reached out in prayer. As the clouds started to lift (metaphorically speaking of course because does the sun ever really shine in Indiana…ha?) I received an invitation from Chris to attend an event with her at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church. We ended up enjoying a lovely afternoon featuring Sr. Josemaria, who spoke about her vocation story. It was inspiring and of course full of faith and many smiles. It was a rainy day, but it brought me the sunshine I needed! Somehow, she just knew! What I am trying to say is that her friendship is life-giving and it is a gift from the Lord in my life.

Thank you Chris for your friendship and for your kind heart. I love you!