To The Dad

Hey Dad, i hope your birthday was real good. It would have been nice to give you somethin big. Thanks for all that you do for me and for all of us kids. You taught me a lot of things dad, but one thing i think that i really learned from watching you is that you always try to make others happy. You always taught us to be nice and to not fight. I'm so glad you are my dad.

You have also always been the best source for some laughs. If we ever needed anyone to make fun of you always came through with something. You are such a fun guy to be around. Thanks for always making us laugh. You always used to do things with me when i was little. I'd always go to the store with you and help you do whatever you were doing. You'd always let me help you steer the car even when i was pretty little. Thanks for always wanting to do fun things with me, i never really remember you telling me that you were too busy for me or anything like that. I could always ask you to do something and you'd be right there to do it with me.

I don't know why dad, but i'm just having a hard time saying what i want to say. There are lots of things you've done for me and memories of you being a great dad. Its hard for me to express to you how valuable you have been in my life. Thank you for all the help you gave me. You didn't get mad at me or yell at me. When i made my mistakes you just wanted to help me. You did help me a whole lot dad. There were times when i really needed a dad to help direct me and tell me that i was still ok and i could make everything right. I'm glad you were there to help me with my struggles in life dad. I owe you lots for all you've done for me.

Thanks for being a great example dad. I wish things could have been easier for you in life as a dad. You had a hard time sometimes with jobs and stuff like that and i'm glad you are the man you are to get through it anyway.

I'd like to be able to say more, but 1, i have to go to work, and 2, i have to go to work. But, i love you dad. I could say thanks a whole lot more times but it wouldn't really do the trick. I hope you know that i love you and your family loves you. I would do anything to help you if you needed. You've always been there for me and i always want to follow your example and be there for you. Thanks for teaching me the gospel and what is right and wrong. I wouldn't have ended up where i am now without you buddy. I know you wondered sometimes when i made mistakes in life if there was something you did wrong as a dad. You did a great job as a dad though, and i owe you.

I love you dad. I'm glad you are my friend. I'm glad we can do things together. Have a great birthday time, and be good.
love, Geoff

Happy Birthday Dad

Happy Birthday Dad.  I hope you had a great day.  Thanks for all you do for me.  Here are some thoughts and memories I have:

• My favorite memory is when I was little and went with you when you were looking for a job.  I felt very important.  I remember that we got to eat in some cafeteria too.
• I always liked riding on your shoulders.  I don't remember exactly when I got too big for you to carry me anymore.
• I loved it when you coached my soccer teams.  You did a great job.  It means a lot to me that you cared enough to spend time to do that.  I'll always remember the year that we took 1st place fall and spring, and won the Commissioner's Cup.  And that we were undefeated except for the game that I had to leave at halftime for some violin thing (and we ended up tying that game).  Even though you hadn't played a lot of soccer yourself, you were always prepared and made sure our team did well and had fun.  You were the best coach I had.  
• I miss working out with you at the bubble.  That was a lot of fun.  And playing racquetball.  I'm glad that you have been able to work hard and get in shape.  It's neat that you can enjoy doing your races.
• I remember one time before school (I think I was in 7th grade).  I was getting in trouble like usual, and you tried to whip me with a belt.  I was trying to get away, and you ended up getting me right across the face.  It left a pretty good welt.  I think you felt really bad about it.  When you were dropping me off at school, I asked if you had a dollar I could have.  You gave me one.  For the next while, when you would drop me off, I would usually ask for a dollar or some change so I could buy some candy or a soda.  You would always give me some.  I guess what I'm trying to say is that getting whipped in the face worked out pretty well for me.
• I'm glad that you came on several camping trips with me for scouts and young mens.  Not a lot of dads came to stuff like that.  We had a lot of fun on those, and we made a lot of good memories.  I also remember how much everyone else loved you going camping with us too.  All of the young men enjoyed you being around.
• You were always generous and giving to us.  I know we didn't have a lot when I was growing up.  Whenever we didn't have enough of something, you never hesitated to go without.  Whenever any of us asked you for something, you gave it to us.  You always wanted us to be happy and taken care of.
• I'm sure I'm forgetting lots of stuff.  You taught me how to drive with your old silver Ford (with its touchy clutch), we wrestled and I ended up with stitches in the back of my head, hearing your stories of growing up by Bear Lake, etc.  Anyway, thanks for being my Dad.

To my favorite dad

One more rhyme and that is it,
For you Dad, I'll write a little bit.
Why are there so many birthdays in a year?
I feel like writing poems has become my career.
But Dad, it's your birthday and you are great.
Remember when you made me clean my whole plate?
It was carrots, and I didn't like them too well.
They came back up and I said farewell
To eating cooked carrots ever again.
Not in the kitchen and not in the den.
But I feel like I've gotten off topic a bit.
It happens too easy, I have to admit.
You're an awesome Dad, and an inspiration.
There's one thing you aren't, and that is Haitian.
Not many people can do what you do,
Whether they're twenty or a hundred and two.
You do all those races and other fun stuff.
All of that working out's making you buff.
You're a wonderful man, and you're very kind.
A better Dad, I could never hope to find.
You're always willing to lend a hand,
You helped me put a garden on my land.
You're always there when I need you
Even when I didn't have a clue
About how much you did for us
Even when you were a bit gaseous.
Well, Dad, I think that's all I've got.
I hope you know I love you a lot.

Happy Birthday Papa!

I wouldn't trade my Papa for anyone!  I'm glad to be a part of your family and to follow your example.  I have many good memories with you throughout the years.

First, I remember the love and support that you gave me on my mission.  It was always good to get your letters and emails.  It was good to hear how you went to the temple often and how your callings were going.  It was great to hear a couple of your mission experiences too.  Thanks for taking care of my finance stuff while I was gone.

I remember waking up to do newspapers.  It taught me how to be dedicated and do thing even if I didn't want to do them.  I was happy to get a little spending money when I was little.  A lot of that went to candy, but I did pay tithing and learned how to save.  I remember going to America First to open up a savings account.  I felt so rich with that minimum of $25 in there.

I remember playing racquetball a couple times with you.  We should have played more because it was fun and you were getting better at it.

It was such a great experience to run in the Ragnar Race with you.  You've given me tons of invites for the triathlons and races that you do and I was glad I committed to do one.  You're a great example of setting goals and getting them accomplished.

I've enjoyed the few lunches that we've been able to go on and talk.  I'm not always eager to talk about dating and stuff like that, but we have had some great talks and I value your counsel and your advice.

Something that kids don't really notice and appreciate as they're growing up is how much their Dad does for them.  I'm not sure I'd want to calculate how much I've cost, but I'm sure I'd never be able to repay it all.  Thanks for sacrificing your time and going to work so that we could have an enjoyable life.

It is great to have a father that I can emulate and follow.  I know that you can lead our family back to our Heavenly Father.  Thanks again for your testimony and all that you have taught us.

Adam

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

Well, Dad... it's your birthday. And since you're the best dad a girl could ask for, I'm going to write some stuff here for you. :)

Remember that time when you went looking for me when I hadn't even reached curfew yet? And then when you got home and I was already there you were so mad at me? I joke about it, and think it was pretty funny, but what it really shows me is that you cared... a lot. Maybe even too much. :) I always knew that you loved me and were very concerned for my welfare, and that you wanted me to always be safe and happy.

Remember that time that you decided you wanted to run Wasatch Back? ;) I am still amazed that you got so many people to do it with you... including my run-hating husband. (Well, he pretends to hate running.) It was such a neat experience for so many people, and it was all because of you. I was so proud of you during that race.

And speaking of races... I am so proud of you for all of the races and triathlons you do. You are constantly challenging yourself, and pushing yourself to do something that I'm sure a few years ago would have seemed impossible. You are a big part of the reason I decided to run a marathon this year. (I'll let you know if I should thank you or curse you for that after Saturday). You are an inspiration to many people, and I'm always proud to tell people that my dad is a triathlete.

There are so many things I could write about you... about how much I love talking to you, about how I love your tender heart (and thanks for helping mom give me the crying gene... ;), about how much I appreciate your desire to make everyone happy, even if it doesn't work all the time, and SO many more things. You are such a good example to me in so many ways, and I can honestly say that I am the luckiest girl in the world to have you as my dad.

I love you, Dad! Happy Birthday!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY LOVE

I fell in love with you the first time I met you. After our first date I told my parents that I had met the man I would marry. They just laughed. I enjoyed dating you, and always felt safe and secure. I enjoyed those long talks about our families and about life. We could talk about anything. Most of all, I loved the look in your eyes, for that is the way that I knew you loved me, too.

We have been through some tough times together, things that could ruin us. But our love grew, dispite hard times. You have been a good father and a good husband. You have sacrificed so much for us. How many men would get up at 2:00 a.m. and go to work to support us? You work hard, and also carry out your church callings faithfully.

Thanks for being mine,
Tammy

To Dallas

Hey i know i'm a couple days late but you should have warned me about your birthday saturday when i saw you. i have a hard time remembering things like that. i don't think i ever even knew when your birthday was before anyway. so happy birthday when it was your birthday. i didn't ride with you in a van and you didn't see me change clothes or smell my stink. BUT, i do still think you're cool. i'm glad you are part of the family. you have jumped right in and done lots of stuff with us and i'm glad. thanks for taking care of jason. i really hope you guys get the things you want. you have both been working really hard and sacrificing alot. you have lots of great things about you. so have a happy birthday time eh. love, geoff

Happy Birthday Dallas!!!

I hope that you have had a great birthday! It has been good to have you in the family. The Wasatch Back Relay was a lot of fun. I'm glad that we were in the same van and I could get to know you a little better.

It was also a great experience to come to the temple with you.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Dallas, Dallas, Dallas

I am so glad I got to sit in a van with you for two days when we did Wasatch Back together. You got to smell me, watch me change my clothes, and listen to me whine and you still like me. I got to see you triumph over sickness, be strong, and laugh, and I like you even more than I did before.

I admire your athletic ability, and let's face it, you're gorgeous. The best thing about that is how humble you are... you are beautiful inside and out and I don't even think you know it.

Well, I hope you have a wonderful birthday! Love you! Go put your feet up and relax. :)

Happy Birthday Dallas

Today is your birthday, it's time for a rhyme
Since not doing rhymes seems to be like a crime.
So on this day, I hope you do something fun.
Eat ice cream, go party, attend a luncheon.
I remember our lunches at Cafe Rio.
Did you like The Matrix with that character Neo?

It was always fun at our girl get-togethers,
None of our time ever included feathers.
You're a good mom and your kids are so cute.
You also look good when you wear a swimsuit.
You're athletic and fun and you seem to be happy,
I don't think your arms are terribly flappy.
Today is your day, and I hope it is great.
A wonderful person was born on this date.

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY DALLAS DEAR

Happy days will come to your all year. (That's a Primary song.) We hope you have a wonderful birthday. You are a wonderful mother to Donovan, and a perfect second mother to the girls. We have grown to love you over the past few years, thankful that Jason found you. I'm proud of you, for all you have accomplished, all that you are. Thanks for being you.

Love Mom

Happy Birthday Dallas

I hope that you have a happy birthday. It has been fun to be in races with you. The 10k in Salt Lake, Ragner and the triathlon in Kamas. You are a wonderful mother to the girls and to Donovan, I appreciate all that you do for your family. Have a wonderful day.

For my Mom

I know this is very late.  I had a busy week last week with finals and everything, and I wanted to have time to write you a decent post.

I'm so glad to have you as my Mom.  You have done so many things for us.  You have always put your kids first.  Here are a few examples:

• Even though we didn't have a lot of money, you paid for private violin lessons for us.  You wanted us to go as far as we could.  I'm sure that was a big sacrifice.
• You always made sure that we were fed.  You were always willing to drop whatever you were doing to cook me lunch.  I don't remember ever having to figure out a meal on my own. 
• You spent your spare time trying to make our lives better.  Many parents have hobbies, clubs, or many different activities that take up their time.  Your time was always for your kids. 
• You encouraged us to pursue whatever interested us.  You let me play soccer, basketball, track, and swimming.  You let me play drums in the band.  You always believed in me and made me feel like I was good at what I did.

I know that I was pretty difficult for you.  I'm sorry I caused you so much trouble.  I wish I could change all of that.  I guess I just don't like being told what to do.  It's kind of silly sometimes. 

I'm glad that we are close now.  I really enjoy being able to talk to you, whether its on the phone or in person.  You always care about what I have to say, and what is going on in my life.

You taught us so well in so many different ways.  Some of the things I have already mentioned.  You taught all of your kids how to play the violin quite well.  You spent countless hours teaching us.  You taught us how to be disciplined with the violin.  I remember getting up at 5:30 every morning to practice.  I remember listening to our violin tapes every night.  I remember you picking me up during school to go to my violin lesson.  You always had an egg sandwich with cheese and a glass of milk for me.  You taught us how to appreciate music and art.  You taught us how to share our talents with others.  I loved going to Heritage Place and playing for the old people.  I enjoyed playing our violins as a family in church. 

You taught us how to be clean and organized.  You always kept the house very clean.  It was important to you.  You taught us to do well in school.  You taught us not to waste food.  You taught us that material things were not important.  You taught us to be respectful and well-behaved.  Most important, you taught is the gospel.  You taught us that we go to church every week, even if we are not feeling well.  You spent time with us at home, teaching us the stories from the scriptures.  You have always been unwavering in your faith.  You have never spoke out against any of the teachings of the gospel.  You have always been willing to serve in callings and spend many hours preparing for them.  You always try to do what is right.  I know that you have made mistakes.  What impresses me is that you are willing to admit them and talk to others about how you are trying to do better.  And you always do better.  I know that takes strength, not weakness, to do that.  You have been a great example to me, and I wish I could do a better job following what you have taught me.

One of the most important things you have done for me is to care about when you feel like you have wronged me.  Many many times you have apologized to me for a particular situation.  You really make me feel like you care about me, and you care that you make the situation right.  Many of the times I have been at least as much to blame as you, but you don't seem concerned with that part.  It means a lot to me that you have done this for me.  I have had a lot of hard times in my life, and many times I have felt somewhat abandoned by my family.  You have been the one person that has really tried to resolve everything with me.  I know this probably sounds like I'm upset with everyone else and holding a grudge, but I'm not.  I don't think this paragraph makes sense or sounds good to anyone else, but I know that you know what I mean Mom.

I know that this is long, and I know that I'm probably forgetting a few things.  I don't think I've explained how I feel very well.  I just want you to know how much I love you and appreciate you.  You mean so much to me, and I know I often don't show it very well.  You have done so much for me, and I always know that you care.  To end, I want to share my favorite memory with you:

• My very favorite memory was when I was little.  When you would put me to bed, I would ask you to sing me a song.  You always ended up singing several songs for me.  Those were the times that I felt the most loved, the most comforted, and the most peaceful.  This is a simple memory, and I can't really put into words how it made me feel, but I'll always remember the love I felt from you.  I don't know the names of any of the songs you would sing, but every once in a while I'll hear one on the radio or a movie or something.  Any time I hear one, I think of you singing to me. 

I love you Mom.

Jason


     

Crap it would only let me post 2048 Characters on my phone. part 2

When you were a boss at the post office you didn't let authority change you. this is really a rare thing jason, but you act the same whether you are boss or not. whether you are leader or follower. i guess i'll wrap this up jason, but i want you to know i think you are a good man. you have a lot of strengths and good characteristics. i know you'll just keep growing and getting better and better. you've been an example of hard work and perseverance. thanks for treating me like an equal and not so much like a little brother. i hope you get to the places you strive to be in life. its a hard road sometimes but you.have shown you can push through to the goal ahead. keep on truckin jason and know i'm here for you if you need a push. happy birthday. love you. Ge   off

Happy birthday Arnold. I mean Jason

Ok here's your no paragraph breaks birthday note in the last hour of your birthday. first jason, thanks for all the different things you taught me, like the proper care and handling of cds and dvds. it was a hard course but i'm glad i passed it. maybe you were like this to everyone else but it seems like you always trusted me with everything. all i had to do is ask you if i could use something of yours and you'd let me. your music and mother and video games and such. you would even let me use them when you were not there. this always has meant a lot to me. i know that could not have been an easy thing for you to do. i know how you are and how protective you are and have been of those things. all i ever had to do though was ask you and i never remember a time when you told me no. i hope i never lose that trust from you. thanks for taking me to concerts with you. i always thought that was great. boston is a band i've always liked since going with you. tool has not been so much a favorite band but i loved that experience of going to see them with you. that was crazy lets just say that. i hope you remember. thanks for always playing sports with me. i've always been small but you always seemed to want me to play too even when you were playing with your older friends. i remember playing football so the field across the street with your friends and you. i was just a really little guy but you still wanted me to come and play. it gave me a lot of confidence. maybe that's why nobody could catch me. some of my favorite times were playing hoop it up with you. there were so many other times i played with you its hard to list them all. but the point is, i don't think i'd be the kind of sports player i am today if it hadn't been for you. you never made me feel like i couldn't be better than anyone else. thank you for that jason. you also let me hang out with you and your friends every once in a while. i know you didn't have to do that but i really enjoyed calling hayes a dink. you do well as a boss and as a leader.

HAPPY FRIDAY THE 13th BIRTHDAY, JASON

It was a lucky Friday the 13th when you were born, and here it is again. I loved being your mother, taking care of my precious little boy. We were so proud of you while you were growing up. You tried so hard, and were good in everything you set out to do. Your 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Pratt said that you were talented, and could do anything. You were super at soccer, fabulous on the violin, good at drawing, and smart in school.
You have gone through some pretty tough times in the last few years. But you kept climbing up, getting through the trials, and bettering your life. I'm proud of you for your accomplishments, but more proud of you for your tender heart.
As a little boy you seemed to be the most caring. When I was sick, you expressed your concern, and wanted to help. When I was pregnant with Adam, and could not do the housework, you always chose the hardest jobs. Mindy was smart, and let you choose the harder jobs. Imagine a little seven year old mopping the kitchen floor and scrubbing the bathroom willingly.
Thanks for being a good son, for your strength, for working so hard on our kitchen remodeling, for finding a good wife, and for being a good dad. I love you.

Love, Mom

Jason

Happy Birthday! I hope you have a good day and get the chance to go out and do something fun.

Tribute to Jason

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JASON!!! First of all, I wanted to thank you for your tribute to me on my birthday. It meant a lot to me to know what you think of me. I'm glad that we all have grown up and I'm not necessarily the little brother to tease, but that we are all friends. I've certainly got good stories to tell about being the youngest and the teasing.

Sometimes we joke about you being an example of showing me all the things that I shouldn't do. I want you to know though that there are so many things that I look up to you for and try to be like you in them. While you didn't get done with school as fast as you wanted to, you have shown determination to finish while working and taking care of a family. I try to have that dedication like you have shown. You have a great family and a great wife. I am so excited for the day that you are sealed in the temple. You have made me want to find a wife like you have found and I'm excited to have a family like yours. I don't know if I want to live in a townhouse though, especially with a weird back yard. Your dedication to the Lord is very impressive. Seeing you get the Melchizedek Priesthood and going to the temple with you have been a great strength to me as your little brother. There are always times that we will make mistakes, but I have seen that you have consistently kept your faith in the Savior. I want to be like you.

I remember when all of us brothers used to share a room. I would lay in bed listening to your music. One of my favorite songs was Bridge over Troubled Water. I admire your love and passion for things like music and sports. I appreciate you asking me for help with your Calculus stuff. You learned it well and you could have probably done it without me, but it really helped me feel needed and important. I'm glad that we got an A. :) Thanks for inviting me to all the sports things that you've done. I wish I had more time for them. I think it would be fun to be on your softball team, maybe when things aren't as crazy with school and stuff then I can come and play again. I remember that you jumped right in after I got home from my mission to welcome me home. It was good to have my brothers there to do things with. Also I appreciate the time you came and helped me move and juggle all my furniture up the elevators. Oh, and you have shown me that when you're going bald, it looks good to shave it and keep it short.

Last of all, I appreciate your love and care for the family. I have enjoyed the times that we have really been able to talk and I have been able to get to know you better. I value your advice in finances and life.

You are a great oldest brother. I love and respect you. Thanks for everything.

Adam

Happy Birthday, Jason!

Well, hey, old man! It's your birthday again. It's really strange how you keep having birthdays and getting older, and I don't. ;)

The first thing I have to say thank you for is being my photography mentor. You've taught and encouraged me more than any other person. You could've been stingy, and not shared your knowledge with me, and never told me that I did anything well with photography, but instead you never held anything back, and never acted like I was horning in on your thing, even though I kind of was. I'll always be grateful for that.

You are generous far beyond what most people will do. I know there are many times when you have helped me out, and given me things, but a recent example that meant so much to me was when we shot that wedding together when Brandon's job situation was shaky. You gave me all the money even though you did the same amount of work. I know you could've used the money too, but you insisted. I guess it's only fair, since I gave you that balloon once when yours popped... ;)

I could list a lot of memories, but most of them would involve me being bossy and you not liking it. I did enjoy our times growing up when we weren't fighting... and those got to be more often as we both got older. I've enjoyed having you for my brother, and am so glad that we grew up to be friends. (It helps that I'm not babysitting you anymore, I think. ;)

I love you lots, and hope you have the best birthday ever.
Love, Your Big Bossy Sister

Happy Birthday Jason

Jason,

I hope that you have a wonderful day and that you have a good day at work also. It is kind of the pits that you have to work on your birthday don't you think? We should all have our birtdays off so we can play. Seriously now, you are a wonderful son and I am so glad that you are my son. I appreciate all that you do for me. My workout schedule that you gave me is great. I enjoy talking to you and getting your help in understanding many things.

One fun memory that I have with you is when we went to Missouri together. You were such a good boy on the bus and was so good when you stayed at the relatives there while I looked for work. You have such a kind and tender heart and so willing to help others. You are a great dad to your children.

I love you very much Jason.

For mom

Hey mom here's your birthday note finally. you forgot to email us to remind us to write you a birthday note. you can't get out of getting them though, we are smart kids, just a little slow no big deal. sorry this will all be one paragraph, i haven't been able to be at a computer so i'm doing this from my phone and can't do paragraph breaks. i hope you know how much you are loved mom. you are such a great woman and a great mom. i can't speak for everyone, but you are the best mom i've ever had. i love you so much and i know i can never repay you for what you have done for me. thank you for supporting me throughout my life with everything i have done, i always knew you were ready to be there by my side if i needed you, and you are still are there to help me. thank you for helping me through tough times in my life. you have helped me to be who i am. thank you for being so selfless and always putting your children before yourself. you are such a sweet lady mom and you are one of my favorite people. if there is ever something you need, please let me help so i can pay off some of my debt to you. thanks for always trying to make your kids and grandkids happy. you are such a fun person to do things with. thank you for all you have done for me and my family. i feel like i have just started with all the things that make you so great but i have already been typing this for a long time. i've always known you were a special person even when i was a little boy. i love you more than i can explain and always will. i'm sorry for any pain or worry i have caused you. i hope that you are always happy and that you have the great birthday you deserve. i love you mom. love your son, Geoffrey Brian

Mother Dear

Another birthday has come and gone,
And I missed it like a big moron.
My favorite thing about this rhyme,
Is how we'll pretend I wrote it on time.
You might think writing poems is easy,
But writing too many makes me feel queasy.
But Mom, for you, I'll write one more.
So print it out and put it in your drawer.
You've always been a great big help,
Especially when I had my whelp.
I couldn't have done it without your support.
If we measured it, it'd equal a quart.
Probably more than a quart, I would say.
But I had to find a word that rhymed, okay?
Kaitlyn loves when she gets to come stay with you.
One thing I don't think you do is kung-fu.
But you teach her a lot of cool things I can't do,
If I have to teach her, I pretend I've the flu.
It's fun to talk to you on the phone.
That's something that's hard to do alone.
So it's good when you pick up and talk back to me,
Even though sometimes you get so busy.
You're fun and you like to have a good laugh.
Is your favorite animal by chance a giraffe?
I'm amazed how you always kept everything clean.
I don't think any of us got gangrene.
You're good at music, dolls, and art.
But the best part about you is your very kind heart.
You're my favorite mom that I've ever had.
Sorry for all those times I was bad.
This poem is at the end of the line,
So I'll say thanks a lot for being mine.

Happy Birthday to my best Friend

Tam,

I hope that you have a happy birthday. You are a wonderful woman and I am so glad that you are my wife. I am greatful for your example to me and for your desire to help others. You are so kind to people and give so much of yourself. I appreciate all that you do and that we are eternal companions. You have such a love for all of our children and their spouses and for our grandchildren. You are concerned for all they do and want the best for them. You are so kind with the grandchildren and love to have them over and go to DI with them. I am sure that they appreciate it. You are so concerned about our children and how they are doing and for their spouses and how you can help them. You are a wonderful example to me and I love you very much. I am sorry that this is a day late. I meant to post it yesterday but I got busy and then forgot. Bad excuse I know. I LOVE YOU!!!!!! MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Just for the record, Dad posted before I did, but I like the date to be right on birthday letters, so I'm predating this. :)

How lucky am I to have a mom who is also a best friend? Well, I'll tell you... I'm the luckiest girl in the world! I love that I can talk to you on the phone, you can send a letter, I can send an email, we can visit in person, and STILL have things to say.

I love that I can cry with you, or to you, and that you always listen. I always feel your love and approval of me, and that has got me through many times that I felt that I wasn't measuring up. I always know that my mom thinks I'm a good person, and that's worth a lot. :) You've always made me feel like I can accomplish anything I'd like to.

I think you are beautiful, and appreciate when people say we look alike. I think you look a lot younger than your years, and would hardly know that you've celebrated another birthday. ;) You are an amazingly talented person, and I think you could do just about anything artistic and musical that you decided you wanted to do. You have such an eye for what works, and what is beautiful. I'm glad I inherited and learned a little of that from you, and only wish I had more of it.

I hope your birthday was as wonderful as you are. I love you so much, and am eternally grateful that you are my mom!

Love, Mindy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!

So, I totally wrote this on your birthday Mom!  (With Mindy's date trick)  I hope that you had a great birthday.  I think I take such a great Mom for granted.  When I really stop to think about all of the things that you have done for me, I can't believe how much love and sacrifice that you've shown.  You are truly my favorite mom!

Some of my favorite memories are with you.  I remember having school before I was able to go to school.  You taught me well and gave me a great headstart.  I remember the times that we would sit and talk for a long time.  You are always able to listen and understand what I'm going through and I value your advice and opinion.  It was hard to take violin lessons from you, but I am so glad that you taught me so well.  The funny thing is that when I help other people with the violin, I use all of your teaching techniques because I remember them so well.  You have a gift for music, and you have a gift of being able to give that gift to others.  I loved playing duets with you.  It was so fun to sight read all the music at full speed and laugh when we couldn't keep up with ourselves.

I remember having to lift up my feet as you vacuumed the floor under them.  I remember helping you dust the house.  I remember you helping me go through my clothes.  I loved growing up in a house where everything was in it's place and where there was peace.  

Last of all, I remember how you taught me the gospel.  I know that I have a Heavenly Father that loves me because I learned about that love from my mom. 

Thanks for everything Mom, and Happy Birthday!!!

T roy

Happy birthday back in the day it was your birthday Troy. I know i missed it by a day or two, but still...

Happy Birthday Troy

I hope your birthday was a great one!  As we get older, they just keep getting better, right?  RIGHT??  ;)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TROY

Happy Birthday

I hope that you have a great day!  It's good to know that we have an electrical engineer in the family.  Maybe someday I'll figure out some good questions to ask you but I don't have homework during the summer so you're off the hook.

Ode to my love

It's my turn for a poem, so I'll give it a whirl.
I'm pleased you requested to marry this girl.
You're the best guy I know; you're awesome, you're great.
I love when you take me out for a date.
It's great the way you put up with my quirks
And being with you definitely has some perks.
You're a great supporter so I can stay home.
Sometimes I spend my time reading a tome.
But mostly so I can be a mom to our kids.
If there were an auction, I'd put lots of bids
On you, and I'll tell you, I'd pay a lot.
But that's mostly because you're just really hot.
I love your eyes, your arms, and your smile.
You beat out all the other guys by a mile.
I love how you hug and hold me tight.
Being with you feels just right.
I've done a lot of fun things with you.
But mostly I remember our trip to Europe for two.
It all started with our flight on a plane,
but my favorite part was walking along the Seine.
Whatever we're doing, when I'm with you, I love it.
And I'd do it lots more if our time would permit.
I love cuddling with you and watching a movie.
The way we like the same stuff is totally groovy.
You're my very best friend, and that's no lie.
I will love you until the day that I die.
So happy birthday to the man who's my all.
When I caught you, I think I caught quite a haul.

Happy Birthday to the Love of My Life

Brandon, you are my favorite.  I know I say that to you all the time, but it's true.  You're my favorite person to talk to, my favorite hand to hold.  You're my favorite face to see, my favorite to snuggle up to.  Every day I'm more in love with you than the day before, and I can't imagine my life without you in it.  You know exactly how to deal with my moods, and you always make me want to be better.  I love watching you be a dad, and I love watching you with babies. I am so grateful that you're a hard worker, and a good provider.  I miss you so much when you work a lot, but I'm also very proud of you.  I think you're amazing, and I don't know how you do such hard things (like function without sleep) day after day.  I love that you just know how to do so many things.  You are smart and handy, and very very sexy.  I love your handwriting.  I love watching you work hard (even if it scares me to death when you're on top of an icy roof, or swinging an axe.)  I love that you are strong in so many ways... physically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally.  You are my rock.  Thank you for being mine eternally.  I love you.

Happy birthday and so on.  I remember that one time we did that one thing.  That was fun.  I hope you have fun running the relay thingy next week.  I'll have fun not running it.  Thanks for this, that, and the other. 

Oh, I just remembered a couple of things for reals.  First, the basketball tournament thing we did at the reunion.  I remember you blocking Scott Archibald's shot.  That was cool.  Second, that time at Grandma Howell's in Fish Haven where I tried to wrestle you.  That was cool for you.  I thought I was decently strong before that.  I felt like an eight-year-old girl.  Thanks a lot.

Jason

Happy Birthday B randon

Well Brandon, you've been around for a long time. I was pretty much just a little guy when you met Mindy and became my brother in law. Thanks for being a part of my life while i was growing up, and being a good example of a husband and father. I appreciate you letting me come and stay with you guys quite a bit. It was always fun. I hope you have a happy birthday today for the last few hours.

I hope you guys get all the things you want in life. Take care buddy.

Happy Birthday Brandon

I hope that you have a happy birthday. I will see you next weekend! It should be fun don't you think? Really I am looking forward to it in a way and I am so glad that you are going to race. I appreciate all of your support with our family and your efforts to take care of Mindy and your kids. You are always working hard and doing your best. Have a wonderful day!

Ken

HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRANDON!

We are thankful to have you in the family. You are a really good husband to Mindy, a great Dad to your children, and a righteous Priesthood holder. Thanks for always working hard to take care of your family. We love you.

Love, Mom Howell

Birthday Poem for Brandon

There once was a man named Brandon
The guy who calls my sister hon.
Or maybe he calls her sweetie or dear,
Pookie or snookums, but that's not why I'm here.
I'm here because it's your birthday today.
And I'd make you a sweater, but I can't crochet.
So I'm writing a poem, even though it is tricky.
I hope when it comes to poems that you're not picky.
I hear you like to hunt and fish.
Do you know how to speak Yiddish?
I don't, but sometimes I wish I could.
It might make these birthday poems actually good.
I like how you take care of your kids and your wife.
It seems like you've given them a pretty good life.
You're a hard worker, and that's really great.
I hate it when people are just dead weight.
So, I feel like there has now been enough delay.
I'll end this poem, and hope you have an awesome birthday.

Happy Birthday Brandon!!!

Happy Birthday

I'm glad that you are a part of our family.  I remember coming to visit you guys and helping you milk cows.  That was a fun experience.  I look up to you.  Thanks for all that you do for the family.

Adam

Happy Birthday

Um...happy birthday.  Of all the sister-in-laws in the world, you are one of them.  Thanks for not bugging me all of the time.  Uh.....sometimes you are kind of funny.  I like Allston.  He is a cool little kid.  And......it's nice that you seem happy all the time.  That is much better than being ornery or grumpy.  It's good that you come to all our family stuff, I guess.  It's good that you like Geoff a lot.  Sometimes he can be a little weird.  So yeah, happy birthday and everything.

Jason

belicia, wife poo

happy birthday honey. i have missed you all day today while i've been working. thats one of my favorite things about you, i never get sick of you. you are always so fun to be with. no matter what we are doing its almost always fun. when i get home from work i'll put a picture of you on here so look again later. its the first picture i ever saw of you before i even met you. you look so pretty in this picture. the first time i met you i could tell you were different. the good different that i like, and someone i can be with. thanks for putting up with me all these many years and giving me so many good memories. you have so many good qualities and you probably don't even know about alot of them. sorry i couldn't make your birthday really special, i know you love fun birthdays. i feel bad i had to work. i hope you have had a good birthday anyway. i love you wife poo. we are meant to be. ps, its dus you're birthday. love deffy

Belicia

Happy Birthday Belicia!!!

I hope that you have a great day.  It has been nice to have you in the family because I'm not the youngest anymore.  You missed all the teasing parts of being the youngest though.

Thanks for how involved you are with the family.  It's always good to have you visit and come to family activities and you have always been able to jump right in and have fun.

Happy Birthday again!

Adam

Happy Birthday Felicia

I don't even know if this will make sense... I'm running on no sleep and pure exhaustion right now.  If I say something wacky, please know I'll fix it later.

I hope you have a wonderful birthday!  You are such a loving wife, and a caring mom to your two boys.  I'm excited that you will be adding a third soon... isn't it funny what life throws at you?  I'm sure you'll do great with three little monkeys, and you'll always be glad things turned out the way they did.

Thanks for being so good to Geoff, and thank you for loving the Howell family.  Happy happy birthday!

Now I'm going to bed.

Sweet Sister-in-law

My name is Brenda and I'm here to say
I'm s'posed to write a poem for your birthday.
I love having you for a sister-in-law.
I'm so very glad you married my bra.
No, I don't mean the thing that holds my boobs
Bra means brother, for all you noobs.
I love to talk with you about books and stuff.
When we talk, I never have to bluff.
It's fun sharing my favorite hobby with you.
Some day we should take a trip to Peru.
You're fun to hang out with, you make me laugh.
I wouldn't trade you for a million and a half.
Thanks for doing my hair all those times.
If you want, I could pay you in mimes.
Just kidding, I think mimes are creepy.
I wouldn't want to make you weepy.
You're a great mom to your two sons.
Your husband seems to love you tons.
And why not? You're a great gal.
It's awesome that you are my pal.
I wish we lived closer, I'd like to see you more.
Driving an hour is sometimes a chore.
I love you so much, I hope your day is great.
Enjoy your day with your kids and your mate.

Happy Birthday Felicia

Felicia,

I hope that you have a happy birthday. We appreciate all that you do. Have a good day and get lots of rest. You are so busy with your boys and have such a handfull.

Ken



HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FELICIA!
We hope you have a very good day. Thanks for all you do. We have grown to love you, and also the sweet little boys that you have.

Love, Mom Howell

My little brother

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHER!!!

There are a lot of things that I could say about how much fun I've had with you as a brother and a friend.  I have more memories with you than with any of the other siblings.  I have always looked up to you and wanted to be more like you.  Looking at who I am today, I notice little things that I do that are what I saw you do and I wanted to be like you because you were cool.

                          

Anyway, I need to respond to the things that you wrote in my birthday message.  

I do remember always getting the worst jewels when we played legos and my guy always dying in the sandbox, but I remember more that I did have jewels and even though my guy died all the time, I was still able to be there.  I'm glad I got you back with "DINOSAUR".

Our treehouse was awesome!  I still wish that we would have been able to sleep up there.  The first level was great.  I wanted to stay off of the sixth level though because it was getting shaky.  It was cool how fast we could get around that tree (and most of us got around without falling out of it).  I remember the rope swing and the Tarzan movie we always planned to make.  I remember our zipline with the mattress at the bottom.  I was glad we survived rappelling with a harness made out of a hose.  I do remember that you worked on the bum often, but I never really knew what to do with it so I stayed busy with other things.  Those were good times.  

We made up a lot of fun games.  I remember that we wrestled to see who could get the other person off the bed first.  I always wanted to win, but I think your determination to stay the "big brother" helped you through. There were those times when we listened to the 1812 Overture and made up the story about the hero and the monster.  It's cool to think that we could share our imagination and love of music.  

High School was fun, but it was then that I realized that I needed to make my own friends too, and yes, I did realize that you and your friends were a little weird, but I liked the weirdness.  Driving to school wouldn't be the same without the Aquabats and Five Iron Frenzy.  I'm glad that we shared the experiences of "Get in the Car", "I need a girlfriend", and "Do you have any Brittney Spears?"  I was also enjoyable to sit in the back seat leaning forward so that I could get fresh air out of the open front window in the middle of the winter. 

I always enjoyed getting letters from you while we were on our missions.  Those four years lasted a long time, but you were a great example.  I remember the great advice that you gave me when we talked on Mothers Day and Christmas.  It was always fun to know that I would be going out on a mission too.

 

I remember that you sent quite a few letters while I was in the MTC.  I've read some of those letters again and now more than ever I realize the love that you had for me and that we were close even though we wouldn't see each other for so long.

After our missions it was fun to be your brother again.  We were all grown up.  I remember how special it was to be able to take our violins on pioneer trek and play together.

I always tried to catch up to you on the violin.  I think you were the one who made me want to continue and do well the most.  

We won't talk about the times that we had to try and sing together.  

I could go on, but I'll have to stop because I don't think this could ever end.  

It's been great to be your brother!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

Adam

Geoff: The Man, The Myth . . . No, just the man

I wanted to write you a poem today,
But I'm not making very much headway.
My brain is mush, I cannot think.
I don't want your birthday poem to stink.
But it's not about me, today's about you;
You have a strange fascination with poo.
You have so many talents, where do I start?
You even know how to play Mozart.
You're pretty great at the violin.
When I hear you, it makes me grin.
It's a lot of fun playing softball with you,
You're fast and quick and other stuff, too.
It's great to see you every week.
You have a really good physique.
You ran a marathon one time.
If you ask me, that should be a crime.
But what do I know? I hate to run.
It feels worse than walking on the sun.
What I like about you is you're really funny.
But I'd probably never call you honey.
That's a job for your wife, and speaking of that
You make a great husband and you also begat
Some kids, and then you became a great dad.
You should probably think about wearing more plaid.
My rhyming is getting worse and worse
And it started out bad, although not perverse.
I wish I lived a bit closer to you,
I like to see you and your family too.
I'm glad you're my brother and my friend.
And, thank goodness, this is the end.

To My Geoffrey Brother

So, you're getting kind of old now.  Sometimes it still amazes me that you're a grown-up... a husband... a daddy.  You were such a cute little guy, and now you're all grown up.  When did that happen?  Even though it makes me a little sad sometimes, I've really enjoyed seeing how well you've done.  You're a loving dad and a kind husband, and always and forever a peacemaker.

I guess I should say that I'm sorry I dressed you up in girl clothes, but you turned out okay, so I'm not going to worry about it anymore.  Thanks for being a fun little brother and wanting to hang around your mean bossy older sister.  One of my favorite memories is you and Adam coming with me to Seminary Council sacrament meetings and singing "I wonder when He comes again".  I was SO proud of you.

You are so talented.  I could be jealous that you are a better violinist than I am, but I just think it's cool.  I think you're amazing, and I know you've put a lot of hard work into your music... plus, you're just amazingly talented.

I also think you have a pretty funny sense of humor.  It's always fun to be around you when you're being silly... you're different from anyone else I know, and that's a good thing.  I like Geoffrey.  :)

I hope you have a wonderful day, and that you always remember that you have so many people who love you and think you're the bee's knees, including me.

To Death

Deffy,

I hope you have a good birthday today.  You're a good brother.  I'm glad that I get to spend time with you playing softball.  I'm glad that you've been able to play with us every year.  I like having you on the team.  You try your best every game, you never complain, and you give me blood. 

I have good memories of playing Hoop-It-Up with you for so many years.  We never did very well, but it was fun to try.  We are always the little guys taking on the big guys, even when we signed up for the under six-foot league.  It was also fun playing in the other basketball league.  We definitely didn't do well in that, but it was fun anyway.  My favorite game was the one where you got mad at the ref with me.  That made me happy.  You always play tough when you play basketball.  I could usually score against people that are around six feet or shorter pretty easily, but you always guarded me tough.  It was often a lot harder to score on you than on much taller people.  I remember one time you blocked my shot a couple of times in a game.  I wasn't even mad.

I miss playing golf like we used to too.  Golfing is fun.  We are golfers.  We should golf more.  Maybe when I get done with school next year. 

So, I don't know if you realize this, but you are the only sibling that I always got along with while we were growing up.  I fought with Mindy lots first, then Brenda later, and I teased Adam a lot and made him cry.  I liked having you around, especially because you would do anything I said.  You were my little slave for quite a long time.  You seemed to enjoy it too, so I don't think I should feel bad about it.  Even after you were too old to be my slave, I still liked hanging out with you.  It was fun going to a couple of concerts too.  Remember how mad Dad was when I took you to Tool with me?  You still turned out ok though.

You're a good man Gee-off.  You have many good qualities that I admire.  You're patient, even-tempered, you don't say bad things about people, and you don't complain.  All qualities that I lack.  I always wish that I was a better big brother, and that I was a better example.  I'm glad that you went on a mission even though I didn't.  I'm glad that you graduated from college even though I quit.  Obviously you didn't need me to show you what you should do.  Good job.  Happy birthday.

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GEOFFREY DEAR

I hope you have a happy birthday today. Geoff. You were such a joy to have as a little baby. You didn't cry much, and would snuggle against me when you were sleepy. I loved being your mom. You were always a good boy growing up. You always told the truth, and always let me know where you were. You were very sensitive, and always wanted things to be fair and right.

You were certainly talented on the violin. During the year you were six, you progressed from the Minuets in Book 1 to the Seitz concertos in Book 4. You were a very hard worker, and practiced until you got the hard stuff. We learned later that you had perfect pitch.

I could say so many good things about you, but it would take all night. So I just want to say that I have been so proud of you for being the person you are. You have accomplished much in your life, from being an accomplished violin player, to being Sterling Scholar, to going on a mission, to being a righteous Priesthood holder, to graduating from college, to being a good husband and father to your family.

You are a man of few words; but I can think of many words that discribe you. You are kind and caring, understanding and tolerant, thoughtful, generous, loving, honest, loyal, and valiant. Thanks for caring about me, for helping me when times are hard, for all your hugs. I love you.

Love, Mom

Happy Birthday Geoff

Geoff,

I hope that you have a very happy birthday. You have brought a lot of joy to our home and I am glad that you are my son. I appreciate all that you do for me and all that you help me with. It has been fun to watch you play sports and play your violin. You have such an ability to make wonderful music on the violin and play with such heart. I remember when you were young and was always willing to do fun things no matter what it was you would try. I am glad that you are going to run the Wasatch Back with us even though you have run it before and know what it is like. I appreciate your willingness to be on our team. You are such a wonderful husband to Felicia and a father to your boys, Allston and Jake. It is such a reward to see how you react with all of them. Thanks so much for all that you help me with and your help to everyone in the family, you are always so willing to help others and so concerned. Again thanks for being such an example and for being my son.

Dad

To Brenda

So, I was going to write this last night when I got home from work, but nobody else had written yet, so I didn't want to be the first one, so now I'm the last one.

Brenda, I've really enjoyed living so close to you for the last few years.  It has been great to be able to get to know you better and spend more time with you.  It has meant a lot to me.  I always liked coming to visit you before, either in Death Valley or Logan, but I don't think we were nearly as close as we are now.

I love having you on our softball team.  The main reason I like to have a team is to have people I want to spend time with on it.  It's a lot of fun for me to have you and Geoff play with us.  It also means a lot to me that you come and spend time with us after games whenever we go get something to eat or whatever.  I know it probably isn't always completely convenient for you to come, but you do every time.  I know that you know that it means a lot to me too, and that's partly why you do it.  Thank you for that.  Many times it is just you, me, and Dallas. 

I appreciate that you are always willing to help us.  Thanks for helping us watch Donovan when I had school and Dallas was still working.  I don't know what we would have done otherwise.  You are always willing to help anyone that needs help.  That is a great quality to have.

So, I'm thanking you a lot, but thanks for supporting me (or anyone else in the family) when I plan stuff for us to do.  This is similar to my softball thanking, but it means a lot to me too.  It is nice that you are willing to make family activities a priority.  I know that is not always easy to do.  I think it has helped our family grow closer together.

I think you and I share some of the same personality traits, and I feel like I can relate to you because of some of those.  We are both loyal, we both care about supporting other peoples efforts, we've both struggled with many things in our life not going the way we would have planned, we both struggle to feel accepted, and we both share the same super awesomeness.

I hope you have a great day, and I hope you know how much I appreciate you.  Happy birthday.  I love you.

Jason
 

Happy, happy birthday, Brenda Marie!!!

I hope you have a very happy birthday, Brenda. You were a beautiful baby, and a darling little girl. You were always the funniest, too, and kept us all laughing. Even at the age of two you could carry on a lively conversation, and argue with the best of them. When we lived in Midvale we would find you "talking" on the phone, or sitting on the potty. Often you fell into the toilet when climbing on, since you potty trained yourself at age 18 months. You'd let Jason lead you around the yard, your little hand in his.

When I was expecting Adam, you were only four; but you helped me a great deal. Almost every day you'd sing "The sun will come out tomorrow..." And one day when I was having a difficult time, you said, "I know it's hard to be pregnant, but it's better than adopting." Every day you told me, "I love you, Mom." Thanks for your sweetness and caring.

You have lots of good qualities. You are a very kind person, always thinks of others, does not want anyone left out. You think of kind things to do, like take a meal to someone who might be in need, send money to a poor child in another country, help feed the homeless, etc. You are very thoughtful when you buy gifts for someone, or organize a family get-together, or call on the phone just to chat. A quality you have, which I would like to emulate, is that you don't say unkind things about other people. You are willing to forgive and forget. Thanks for forgiving me. You are a very patient mom, at least when I've seen you interact with your children.

We have had some fun times together, and some difficult times, too. Thanks for the sweet notes and letters you would write to me. I saved them all. We love you with all our hearts.

Love, Mom

Brenda, hi

I wanted to be cool and put a picture on here too. Here you go.

I have a cool story to tell you about for your birthday. Its a story about how you would do stuff with me and try to include me in your crazy ideas. I don't remember when it was but it was when the internet was all new and i was just little. You got a free trial for like 30 hours of internet free and you were going to load it and use it on the computer. You were all excited about it and telling me it was going to be so fun and it would be the coolest thing in the world.. so i was there with you pretty excited about this internet thing and then you got it working and i just couldn't understand why you had been so excited about this internet. I remember asking you what is so fun about this? You were so excited about it so sorry if i ruined your moment.

The point of that silly story was that you are always doing stuff with me and including me in all the stuff you are interested in, even if its not something i really like. Stanks for that Brenda. When i was in Jr high and High school i remember wishing we were one year closer so that i could be in the same school as you for one year. Oh well, but thats why i ended up so strange, because i had to go and figure out things all by myself. I almost ended up in a van down by the river, but i had you at home to set me straight.

I don't really ever have anything good to say so happy birthday Brenda, i love you. You're a good sister. (Maybe even my favorite sister... but don't tell Mindy, i made this text all small so she can't see because she's getting old, so don't tell her and she'll never know. If Mindy has someone not so old reading this for her, i'm just kidding Mindy... you're my favorite sister, but don't tell Brenda, she probably won't make it all the way to the bottom before she gets bored so don't tell her and she will never know.)

Happy Birthday Brenda

Brenda,

I hope that you have a very happy birthday. You have always been a very caring girl. I have so appreciated how much you have helped others. As a little girl you were so fun and just a joy to be around. I remember how you used to love to go places and would love to go for a ride with me and help me with things. You used to say the funniest things and we would get such a kick out of them. Hugs were always a joy when you were around, if I ever had a bad day or was discouraged about something you would be there with a big hug. I sure appreciated it, it was fun and such a blessing in my life. You have always seemed to know how to get the family together and were always willing to organize a family outing or make sure someone did.

I am rambling on and wish that I was better with words and could express things better. Anyway you are a wonderful daughter and I am so glad that you are in my life. I love you and appreciate all that you do.

Oh, one more thing, thanks for encouraging me to do things and for always being there for me.

Dad

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENDA!!!

Here is a poem

It won't be very long

Brenda writes a better poem

Mine seems all wrong.

It's Brenda's birthday

She is really great!

Horses eat hay and neigh

but this poem isn't about horses.

Brenda, you are much better at writing poems, but I don't think that you'd write yourself a poem for your birthday so I did it for you.  I've been excited to write this for your birthday.  For the last couple of months or so I've been thinking of things that I could write about, I should have kept notes though because I know that I'll miss some of them.

So, I've never told you this, but when I was growing up, I inwardly blamed you for my cowlicks.  Mom would always say that I had cowlicks every time she cut my hair.  It all seemed to start when we went over to your friend's house and you put gel in my hair.  I think that was the first time I had gel in my hair, but I remember learning that it was sticky and made your hair stay a certain way.  So after that (and even to this day even though I know better now), I think about how my cowlicks came from you fixing up my hair with that gel.

We did a lot of fun stuff.  I was always happy to go along with your ideas.  One day we decided it was time for a photo shoot.  We dressed up in cool clothes and found places to take pictures.  It was fun to be with you, and for some reason I did feel cooler.

I guess there was that one time you dressed me up as a girl, I really don't know why I didn't fight it.  You must have had some secret power of persuasion.  Good thing I can't find that picture.

I found the picture below when I found the one above and thought it was funny.  (Mindy - you don't have to worry about looking weird in this one because you were probably taking it).  We have a great family!  Brenda, you have always a good link to keep us all together.  I appreciate all that you do to help the family stay close.  Thanks for planning things where we can get together.

You are a great sister!  I cherish the memories that we have together.  I remember all the crazy emails that we used to write (which we need to start up again).  You always know how to cheer people up with your clever humor.

There was that one time that we were eating at Mom and Dad's and for some reason I thought it would be funny to start copying you.  Even though we were both old enough that that really shouldn't have been that funny, I think that was one of my favorite memories.  It was great to be able to be kids again for a little while.

I hope that you have a great day.  I love you and I'm grateful for the example that you have always been to me.  I know I can always look up to you.  Happy Birthday!

Brenda, My Sister

Where do I even start?  Brenda has been one of my greatest joys and my biggest pains, which is what every little sister should be.

I always thought that I hated sharing a room, and resented that I had to share with a sister my WHOLE LIFE.  When I finally got my own room for a little while, I was lonely.  I missed sharing with my sister.  I missed our late night giggles.  I didn't realize how much fun we had had making mom and dad say "girls!" 500 times a night.

I always thought that I hated sharing clothes.  Well, I don't know if sharing is the word, because I don't think I wore Brenda's very often, but if she wore mine, there was sure to be a stain on it when she returned it.  Now I think, who cares?  They were just clothes!  And how lucky I was to have a sister who was close to my same size and who wanted to wear what I wore.

I still have a hard time forgiving Brenda for being so cute and photogenic.  It's hard to be the ugly big sister next to a perfect blond haired blue eyed angel in every picture.  I can't think of anything good to say about that.  ;)

A recent fun memory is coming across the finish line at the triathlon together.  It was way more fun and meaningful to me than it would've been if I had won the whole thing.  When I saw we were getting out of the pool at the same time, I was really excited.  It might seem like a silly thing, but it was really neat for me to finish something we had never finished before, and to finish it together, holding hands.

One of my favorite times was when I got to spend almost a week at Brenda's house in Ridgecrest after Ethan was born.  She didn't really need me by the time I got there... she was so self-sufficient, her house was already clean, Ethan was a good baby... but I cherish that time we spent together.  I loved talking, sewing, cooking, and just being together.  It was also wonderful holding and snuggling a sweet soft baby in the middle of the night.

We had our hard times growing up, we've had our hard times as adults... but the important thing to me is that Brenda is my sister, and will always be my sister, and I love her with all my heart.  And there are enough of the really good times together that those hard times don't really even matter.

I wanted this to be funny, and maybe later when I'm not all teary I can write something funny.  (Because Brenda is truly hilarious), but for now, this will have to do.

I love you, Brenda!  Have a happy happy happy happy birthday!

Adam The Bucket

I'm your big brother Adam, even though it has not always seemed that way when we grew up. We have always been close enough in age to be doing the same things and doing stuff together alot. Also i was not really "bigger" than you for much of my life. I think most of the times in life we were not just brothers at all, but we were friends too. It was fun doing all the stuff we did together. I did sometimes take advantage of being the big brother. I could bully you around if i wanted to, but you still wanted to be around me even though i did sometimes. You were always one of my friends Adam.

So here's a few things for you to remember; me and Luke always get the better jewels when we are playing legos; your guy always has to die when we are flooding the sandbox...sorry you just can't save him, he just has to die. You did have a pretty good bedroom in our treehouse though didn't you? I did make myself two bedrooms and i think your bedroom was next to the "fireplace" wasn't it? Speaking of the tree, you did work on the bum with us didn't you? I sure hope so because you wouldn't have wanted to miss out on that one. Some of the only times you weren't hanging out with me was when i was playing basketball with other friends... even though you sure did give it a try sometimes. We had some good times with "white guy" and the "dragon eaters" and all of the shenanegans that went along with that. Also one of my very most favorite times ever in life was the Adam the bucket my mom told me not to get wet time... that was so good. I just can't believe it worked out so perfectly. I think i could go on more for a long time, but i think you get the idea. It was alot of fun. I'm glad you were one of my friends even though we usually gave you the worst of whatever we were doing. I'm glad you didn't figure out that me and my friends were really weird until near the end of high school, you might not have done things with us so much growing up.

You turned out to be a good guy even with all of us being our weird influence on you. I'm glad you didn't listen to everything we said, we were kind of stupid sometimes. And i'm sorry for kicking you that one time. That probably wasn't really very nice. I know at times you really didn't know if you had a ton of friends, but we were always your friends dude, and you ended up really being the kind of person that so many people like. I am glad you ended up like you did, even though i know at times i didn't really help you to get there. You did good and i'm proud of who you are and how you act. I know you'll get alot of things in your life because of that.

Thanks for being my brother, and for being my friend.
Have a happy birthday eh. I'm around if you ever need anything. I owe you

Happy Birthday Adam

Hey Adam.  I hope you have a great birthday today.  I would like to give you a small analysis of your life.  As a professional (I took a psychology class once), I feel that this might be beneficial for you.  Here it is: 

I bet it was hard for you, being the youngest in the family.  I don't know if you felt like you got any respect for anything.  We all played the violin, and you wanted to play too.  You didn't start out as fast as the rest of us at it, so you didn't get a lot of support to play.  But you kept playing anyway.  We all played sports, did lots of activities, and got good grades.  You didn't get to do as much as the rest of us.  You also cried very easily.  As your big brother, I made sure that I made you cry frequently.  I think for a while I made you cry on a daily basis.

I think, because of all of this, that you were determined to be successful in life.  You worked very hard practicing the violin for many years.  You got very good at it.  You worked hard at learning other instruments as well.  You worked harder than any of the rest of us in school.  You took math classes in high school that I've never even heard of.  You have carried that through college.  You have had a plan for what you have wanted to do, and you've done it.  You will probably be more successful careerwise than the rest of us.  Your effort with your education has been very impressive (but I still beat you on the ACT).   

You have always wanted to do what is right.  You worked very hard to prepare for your mission.  You saved your money for it.  You studied very hard, and you made sure you were spiritually prepared for it.  As a teenager, you never got distracted from your goal to go on a mission.  While on your mission, you were determined to be the best missionary you could be.  You were 100 percent committed to it.  You worked very hard, and loved the people you served.  You have carried that committment forward over the years that you have been back. 

And of course, you are determined to find a worthy spouse for yourself.  It is very impressive to me that you have understood the importance of this since before you started dating.  I have tried to teach my daughters the importance of dating people with the same standards as them, only dating in groups while they are young, not dating anyone exclusively until you are ready to think about getting married, and so on.  I wish they could be around you more to see your example of this.  You have never been interested in any dating situation that doesn't follow the plan you have for yourself.  Not many people can say that they have been that disciplined.  I know that you've been hurt in this area, and that not everything has worked out the way you planned.  You have done things the right way though, and that is important.  It will pay off for you.   

You have worked so hard in your life to be where you want to be.  You have worked so hard to be the best you could possibly be at everything you tried.  You have worked so hard at being the best person you could possibly be.  I think that this all goes back to what you experienced being the youngest in the family.  I think that, as your big brother and frequent tormenter, I played a part in that.  By teasing you and making you cry, I helped make you more determined to succeed.  You're welcome.


I hope you have found my analysis to be helpful.  You are a great person, Adam, and I hope you know that we all feel that.  I hope that, when you get done with school, we get to spend more time with you.  It has been hard not to be around you much.  I know you keep very busy with everything you are doing, and it's hard to juggle everything you want to do.  

I admire your committment, Adam.  I wish I could be as dedicated as you are.  I wish I could be as strong as you.  I look up to you, and admire your wisdom.  I think you are a good man, and you are a good brother.  

Jason 

Adam (a poem with words)

It is your birthday, dear Adam

Here is a poem so you won't be glum.

Everyone thinks that you're a great guy

And it's not really very hard to see why.

You've always tried to be extra kind.

You're smarter than 47 pencils combined.

You spend a lot of time in school.

Making robots is pretty cool.

I remember we used to e-mail a lot,

But that was before you became a big-shot.

Okay, you're not, there's just too much to do

I wonder if you have time to shampoo.

Sometimes I wish you weren't so busy.

Your hair is not what I'd call frizzy.

Maybe you could visit more, 

Would you if I lived by the shore?

 If I baked you cookies, a cake?

Or if I threw a big clambake?

Do you like clams?  I don't even know.

If you don't, you'd be a no-show.

So I guess this is it, your present's a poem.

I'm glad we lived in the same home.

You're a great brother in every way.

I hope you have an awesome birthday.

Adam the Baby

It's hard to believe that Adam is a grown up man now. I think I was 10? when Adam was born, and I remember how cute he was. It's weird that he's gotten so much older and I haven't. ;)

I had so much fun with Adam growing up. I would dress him and Geoff up in bonnets and girls clothes, and the amazing thing is, they let me, and seemed to have fun too. I refuse to accept any responsibility for problems they may have now because of that. ;) I loved having a little brother that would do whatever silly thing came to my bossy head... I feel a little bad for it now, but at least I spent time with the little whippersnapper, right?

I moved away when Adam was still pretty little, and I didn't really get to see what he was like as a teenager. I always had to laugh, though, when mom would complain to me about how awful Adam was for taking the church cds and not returning them. I think that was probably the worst thing he did as a teenager, and I'm pretty sure he'll burn in hell for it.

My favorite thing about Adam, though, is the quiet strength I've seen in him throughout his life. I sometimes feel like he's older and wiser than I am in some ways, and I really look up to him. He is always a peacemaker. He is always ready to help anyone in need. He is always ready to share his deep love of Christ, the gospel, and his testimony. He is a rock.

I know he gets tired of our constant nagging about his dating life, and what's going on with him, but I am always interested in how things are going for Adam, because I love him. I sometimes feel like we're at such different times in our lives, but then we'll talk about things that we're going through that are exactly the same. I'm always pleased when I find out we're alike in some way, because who wouldn't want to be like Adam?

Happy Birthday, Adam... I'll be forever grateful that you joined the family in the miraculous way that you did. I've never had a doubt that you needed to be with us, to help us all and strengthen us, and bring us joy. You're an amazing brother!!