Julie doesn't sell herself very well and that's because she is selfless. My son went to Julie's when he was in my eyes still a baby. He started off part time until u got a full time job. This was the start of an incredible journey for my son and I.
I worked at a local hospital, 24hr rotational shifts. Between me my sons father and Julie I believe there was some stability in his life. I got very poorly in 2007 I had meningitis and was not aware of what was going on around me for quite some months. Julie, Phil and her boys were very supportive and at this terrible time. I don't have much memory about the day to day events. All I know is Julie was always ready to help with Stew. I recovered from meningitis and I gradually returned back to work. We soon got back to normal. I started my nurse training in 2007. I was studying hard working bank shifts and to top it off my relationship with Stews dad broke down. A very difficult time for us all. Julie and Phil were amazing they listened to me blubber for hours on end. They encouraged me to continue with my studies. I shouldn't mention this but she wavered childminding fees as I was struggling financially as a single student mum. On top of this she was flexible and never questioned my shifts. If I worked nights he went to Julie's, if I worked Sat, Sun early or late shifts again he went to Julie's if he wasn't at his dad's. Knowing Stew was with Julie took the stress out of going to work. I knew he would always have a hot meal, he was encouraged to do activities. I suppose I should mention Stew, use to call Julie mum, I beat myself up about that one bit Julie reassured me that he knew who his mum was. Mmmm I wasn't convinced because when I wasn't working he would ask to go to Jujus. He started school again I found this to be stress free as Stew knew most of the children through the school runs.
Julie supported me through my sons faddy eating and at times we met to discuss behaviours. We generally conquered the problems through working together. My son and I lived with Julie for a while as we were in between homes. These were happy days for me and I felt part of there family. As time went on Stew stopped needing a childminder but she has never stopped being supportive. I highly recommend Julie she provides a home from home environment and gives gives gives. This is only snippet of what Julie and Phil done for us. Without Julie and Phil my life could of been so different. Even when Phil was diagnosed with cancer they carried on. I have so much respect for you. Much love and appreciation to Julie and Phil.
Update since Stew left Julie's' his table manners remain impeccable he now asks me to make chilli like Ju makes it. He asks me to make Sarah's potatoes too. He isn't afraid of doing chores and is good with animals. I don't know if my sons shoe size has got anything to do with him going to Julie's but he is a size 11.5 for goodness sake and I know her children have large feet lol. If I had to do it all again I would not hesitate to have Julie looking after my child. So much appreciation to you and your family.

Julie Hudson

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