When I Grow Up . . .

It would be interesting to have a record of all of the ridiculous ways in which I finished this sentence when I was a child. I have to say, I was pretty normal and stuck to wanting to be a teacher, a mommy, and of course a figure skater like Kristi Yamaguchi (who doesn't?). Of course, as I got older, I added, "I wanna get married!!!" to the list. Even though my big brother Daniel is 6 years my senior, we were always close. Maybe it was because I was the only kid in the family that would let him put his stinky feet on me, bake him Andy Griffith cookies, and close his eyelids when he was just too tired to do it himself. More or less, I put up with his odd and quite weird sense of humor. In Jr. High and High school, when the craze for boys was in full swing, Daniel was my confidant and wise counselor. He was on a mission to find Ms. Right himself; I just couldn't figure out where that lady was, because my big brother Daniel was AMAZING! In fact, I had decided that, in looking for my own Mr. Right, I should look for someone that was just like Daniel. In other words, when I grew up, I wanted to marry someone just like him.

As it turns out, Ms. Right was a little younger than Daniel and wouldn't come on the scene for a few years; but I think he can attest, she was well worth the wait! And as for me . . . Chris isn't "just like Daniel." But, this is a good thing - a very good thing! If he were just like Daniel, he would be just like me. This would pose many more conflicts than we already endure! I've often marveled at the goodness and wisdom of God in giving me the perfect husband. My weaknesses are his strengths, and visa versa.

But, I have to say, in all of the areas that truly matter, my Mr. Right is just like Daniel. Daniel is passionate about TRUTH. Daniel is a good listener and offers kind, but truthful advice. Daniel is a caring and giving husband to Molly and a great dad to Grace and Paul. He is a careful and sincere servant and shepherd to Grace Church. He is a respectful and loving son and a best friend to those who call him "brother."

So, Happy Birthday to my big brother Daniel. I love you.

Honeysuckle

P.S. Don't you just love that family picture? It makes me LOL.