Happy Birthday Daddy

It's my dad's birthday tomorrow. Today my family got together - all of us that could. We were only missing Shad, Shaylin, Shalee, and there families. Everyone else came out to Newton to spend the day and celebrate daddy's 70th birthday. Or "would be" 70th birthday. It was a good day. I love being with my family and couldn't imagine life without them all. Each one is special to me in different ways and I hold special memories of each of them. (Just skip down to the pics if you don't want to read about my family - I won't be offended - there are lots!)

ShaMayne - my eldest sister - she has taught me how to endure
Her husband Jack - He has always been a listening ear, and a shoulder to lean on. He is a pillar of strength and wisdom
Shaun is my eldest brother, and very smart. He is loving and patient
His wife Kerry - Kerry has always been the type that makes you feel special, she sincerely cares about you and shows it.
Shaylin - I really haven't had a chance to know Shaylin very well, but he always takes care of my taxes for me and is a nice brother
His wife Karen - She's talented. She has so many interests and talents that I admire. She made my first Prom dress...a dress that I designed myself and drew up on paper, and she figured out how to make it.
Sharik - he loves people. He and his wife Cheryl have some of the biggest hearts I know. They TRULY know the true meaning of serving mankind, and of giving the shirt off your back. They GIVE more than anyone I know. They are so selfless and kind!
Sheldon - He baptized me when I was 8. He is such a people person, and I watch him to pick up on social skills. I am not a very great "Social" person, and he is wonderful at it. He is kind and fun - full of life. His wife Angie is so nice. She is always willing to talk to you and she is a great listener.
Sheridan - He is FUN. He has a great sense of humor and is always smiling and laughing. His wife Amber is a hard worker, and a very good person in general. She is always willing to help me at a moments notice. I've appreciated the friendship I have grown to have with her.
Shad and Gaia - we don't see them much, and I don't know them as well, but they have always been loving when they are around, and Gaia is a terrific cook!
Shiloh - He and I haven't always liked each other, but over the years I think we've grown closer, and I'm amazed at how smart he is. He has a big heart, and really cares about people more than he lets on
Shenla - We've struggled over the years to have a good relationship, but I love her. I think that she is stronger than SHE thinks she is. And besides, she is the closest sister in age to me, and she is willing to show up when I need her.
Shalee and his wife Jill - you'd think I'd know him better since he is closest to my age, but he left home early on and I never got to really know him, but I like to see him smile, and hear him read poetry or tell jokes. He's a funny guy.

That's my family! Just felt like sharing about those closest to me. I love them all.

Here's some pics from the weekend too. Sorry bout the long post. It's been a while since I posted, and for some reason family is a big deal to me right now. I miss my dad and hope he's having a blast in heaven. My brother in law Jack gave me a blessing tonight and said that my dad is closer than I know, and that there was purpose in his passing at this time...and I believe that's true. We did a Temple session tonight too with most that could make it, we did sealings. It was awesome being there with so many of my siblings. I love this gospel!