Two Days to Dad's B-day!

Every year dad & i are the same age for a month; did you notice that? Wow, it's been a long journey since we met. We got married and became parents very young. Do you know why I thought dad was good marriage material? He impressed me most with his independence - he could do laundry, cook, clean, take care of himself better than I. (The Navy training contributed to dad's independence.) He was also very intelligent, determined, committed, and hard-working - all the right qualities of a reliable person to marry. What I didn't know at that time was his long-term qualities: being there for me through the good, bad, and the ugly, so to speak. Approaching 23 years of marriage, I have to say he's passed that test too. We as a family went through a lot together - illnesses, stresses, growing pains, fights, everyday challenges, developmental achievements, exciting opportunities, and all kinds of successes. All combined has been such a valuable experience and cherished journey to me to be on with dad and you guys. I know I am somehow a better person now after going through so much. I am sorry that you two endured some very stressful times in your childhood; you can talk to us about your feelings if you are still upset. Life doesn't come with directions or guarantee; we just have to do our best everyday and everyday we sow and reap goodness while dealing with challenges and crap. If we can do that, we succeed in life. Everything else above that is icing on the cake!

Talking about cakes, I am not sure how we are celebrating dad's bday - we'll have a combined celebration for all of our bdays when we see Dan. You'll be with us in spirit, Amanda.

Take care of your body, guys. I hope you'll get better soon, Amanda. Do you have a cold or something worse? Dan, how is your knee? Dad and I miss you guys a lot but we are very happy that you have the opportunity to be involved in such adventures and challenges. We realize it's hard to be away from home and have to sustain yourself in school, sports, work environment, community, etc. You'll look back one day and be glad you did it. I know there are many adults our age would do anything to have experienced what you two are doing now. Enjoy yourselves. As my favorite saying goes - do well and be well.

Love you guys,
Lots of hugs & kisses
Mama