I have a lot of respect for genuine people. They might not be perfect, but at least they’re not pretending to be. (A. Gucciardi)

When their children and ours were little, we were neighbors. It was just impossible not to find the whole family likable, and even more improbable to not fall in love with their three absolutely adorable children— Jennifer, Jeffrey and George. This explains why it really was a crisis for the entire neighborhood when their young son went missing (briefly) many years back. Christine was frantic. The Carmel police department was called. All of us were searching the nooks and crannies of the area…until he was found…inside his toy box! It makes me laugh all these years later and honestly I never even asked Christine if that is actually where he was or just the very funny story I heard secondhand.

For me, this little tale illustrates what I have always loved about the Utzinger family, and especially Christine. She’s just so real, so utterly relatable. For me, nothing beats an unpretentious person. It’s often what connects me with others. I mean, one would have to be heartless to refuse to help a mom whose toddler has wandered off, but that’s not the point here. The fact is, Christine is beloved by all who know her because she is joyful, sunny and completely genuine!

We did some grade school carpooling together for a time, and she was the most generous and thoughtful partner in crime. Christine goes out of her way for others everyday. It’s just who she is. Her laughter, sense of fun, terrific smile and compassionate heart make the world just a much warmer place to inhabit! Also, (sidebar) the woman can bake and the results are delicious works of art. Seriously, the woman is gifted.

Christine Utzinger is as bright and articulate as she is beautiful— and she really is stunning. She is truly a charming and faith-filled woman of God! When I had a scary health diagnosis early in the year, her kindness reaching out was more meaningful than she knows.

So, this week (if my calendar is accurate) Christine celebrates her birthday. Tomorrow (12/18) is her day, I believe! I wanted to take a moment and give her a little shout out to let her know that I am overdue to let her know that she is a giant scoop of awesome sauce! Love you Christine! Happy Birthday!!! I miss you, my friend. ❤️