Dear Rachel,
I know that I have not been very consistent at writing but please know that I think about it almost daily. This post refers to several weeks ago but will be true regardless of when you read it. This week you brought love peace and happiness to our home by being faithful. You do so much good in our family, ward and business and I wanted you to know it. I am well aware that you think you are not doing a good job handling everything that comes your way but I will respectfully disagree with you. I that the trials and hardships you have are proof that you are doing what the Lord wants you to do.
As I have thought about this post, I have recalled many of the numerous examples of people who ran into adversity while trying to do the work of the Lord. Nephi, Ammon, Daniel, shadrach, meshach and abednego, the pioneers and hundreds more. Fore each of them, when they were doing the work that was required of them, and starting to have success, is when their trials came. They were bad-mouthed, falsely accused, and even physically harmed. But the results that came out of them holding strongly to their convictions were heavenly.
I know that you have has some hard weeks with difficult people, difficult tasks, and difficult family members. but I also have to thank you for the faithfulness and charity with which you have approached these trials. Your example has definitely brought more love, peace and happiness to our home. You have truly handled these situations with the spirit and have grown because of them. Paul said " Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecution, in distresses for Christ's sake: foe when I am weak, then am I strong." I feel that over the past weeks your actions have carried this theme with them, and in doing so, you have had your testimony grow, and that has carried into the testimonies of our children. I love you so much and I am constantly amazed by everything you do.
Thank you again for bringing so much to our family.
I love you,
Brandon
Monday, August 31, 2015
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week you reminded me that you are my best friend. This week was not a great one. I was busy and ended the week on a bad note. I had every intention of sulking throughout the evening. You picked up on me having a hard day and were ready and waiting when I got home. You had prepared a steak dinner just for the two of us. You were cheerful and upbeat and blasted me with love, peace and happiness when I needed it the most.
This week, I saw again many of the reasons I fell in love with you. I remember when we were in college, you were so set on everyone enjoying themselves. You planned study groups with games and refreshments. your creative mind was always looking for a way to ensure that others were having fun, even during finals week. Every week you planned these elaborate dinners to involve even those that you just met.
That mindset has continues today. Our work party was sch a hit because you are so good at focusing on activities that will ensure that all those involved will have a good time. I appreciate how you consider every ones feelings and personalities when planning such events so there is something for everyone involved. You have the special ability to recognize what will make others comfortable, then you have the creativity to weave that into a well coordinated event that involves everyone in attendance and makes them feel the event was tailored to them, without making them feel singled out. That is a skill that not everyone possesses.
This week, I felt that you took those skills, and used them to make my Friday night much better than it should have. the events of the day had left me feeling anxious, preoccupied and overwhelmed and you brought me back to reality, laughed with me and brought me the comfort that only a best friend could. I always enjoy laughing, playing games, watching TV, and traveling with you, and this week I was reminded again, how much I love spending any time with you.
I love you so much and I'm so grateful for your fun personality that daily brings love peace and happiness to my live.
Love always,
Brandon
This week you reminded me that you are my best friend. This week was not a great one. I was busy and ended the week on a bad note. I had every intention of sulking throughout the evening. You picked up on me having a hard day and were ready and waiting when I got home. You had prepared a steak dinner just for the two of us. You were cheerful and upbeat and blasted me with love, peace and happiness when I needed it the most.
This week, I saw again many of the reasons I fell in love with you. I remember when we were in college, you were so set on everyone enjoying themselves. You planned study groups with games and refreshments. your creative mind was always looking for a way to ensure that others were having fun, even during finals week. Every week you planned these elaborate dinners to involve even those that you just met.
That mindset has continues today. Our work party was sch a hit because you are so good at focusing on activities that will ensure that all those involved will have a good time. I appreciate how you consider every ones feelings and personalities when planning such events so there is something for everyone involved. You have the special ability to recognize what will make others comfortable, then you have the creativity to weave that into a well coordinated event that involves everyone in attendance and makes them feel the event was tailored to them, without making them feel singled out. That is a skill that not everyone possesses.
This week, I felt that you took those skills, and used them to make my Friday night much better than it should have. the events of the day had left me feeling anxious, preoccupied and overwhelmed and you brought me back to reality, laughed with me and brought me the comfort that only a best friend could. I always enjoy laughing, playing games, watching TV, and traveling with you, and this week I was reminded again, how much I love spending any time with you.
I love you so much and I'm so grateful for your fun personality that daily brings love peace and happiness to my live.
Love always,
Brandon
Dear Rachel,
This week I again will bow down to you deal finding skills and sing praises that you can find a way to make money go way further than it was ever intended to. Yes, this week I will again admit that your ability to find deals does in fact bring love, peace and happiness to our home.
This week, you somehow managed to get all 7 of us into the movie "In and Out" for under $10. while I'm sure anyone over the age of 60 would complain, saying that when they were a kid they could see a movie with popcorn and drinks for $0.75 but today, 10 bucks is unheard of. You always seem to find these opportunities to give our family experiences that we would not have otherwise. I remember as a child going to the movies with the whole family about 4 times. Now, I maintain that the theater is not a necessary requirement for raising a cultured, educated family, but it sure does bring some fun to the summer. I think all of us had a great time ( except for the wrestling match between us and Josie that lasted from the opening credits to the ending song). I don't think anyone understands the vigilance that is required to snatch up these deals, but we are so grateful that we get to benefit from the fruits of your labors.
I am well aware that I sometimes give you a hard time about how much you obsess over getting the best deal, and sometimes it can accomplish the opposite of bringing love peace and happiness to our home :) but more often than not, we are, as a family, able to participate in activities, visit destinations, and create memories that we would not have the money to do other wise.
I am so glad that you are my eternal partner in creating a home and family and I love all the gifts and talents that you bring.
You are amazing,
Love,
Brandon
This week I again will bow down to you deal finding skills and sing praises that you can find a way to make money go way further than it was ever intended to. Yes, this week I will again admit that your ability to find deals does in fact bring love, peace and happiness to our home.
This week, you somehow managed to get all 7 of us into the movie "In and Out" for under $10. while I'm sure anyone over the age of 60 would complain, saying that when they were a kid they could see a movie with popcorn and drinks for $0.75 but today, 10 bucks is unheard of. You always seem to find these opportunities to give our family experiences that we would not have otherwise. I remember as a child going to the movies with the whole family about 4 times. Now, I maintain that the theater is not a necessary requirement for raising a cultured, educated family, but it sure does bring some fun to the summer. I think all of us had a great time ( except for the wrestling match between us and Josie that lasted from the opening credits to the ending song). I don't think anyone understands the vigilance that is required to snatch up these deals, but we are so grateful that we get to benefit from the fruits of your labors.
I am well aware that I sometimes give you a hard time about how much you obsess over getting the best deal, and sometimes it can accomplish the opposite of bringing love peace and happiness to our home :) but more often than not, we are, as a family, able to participate in activities, visit destinations, and create memories that we would not have the money to do other wise.
I am so glad that you are my eternal partner in creating a home and family and I love all the gifts and talents that you bring.
You are amazing,
Love,
Brandon
Friday, July 3, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week again, I felt that you brought love peace and happiness to our home by capturing our family activities with your photography. This week we had the chance to go to H2O water park in Pampa. It. Was. Awesome. the weather was perfect and the activities were enough to wear out five children that had used an entire months worth of junk food calories in just one night.
I think I could write a whole book about the slides, the lazy river, and the pool area, but it still wouldn't compare to how you captured the evening with a few pictures. I sometimes feel that we get invited to events just because those inviting know that you will take amazing pictures and promote the adventure to the point that it becomes the next hottest party.
This evening was no exception. The kids have missed water slides so much that I'm pretty sure they tried to recreate one in the bathtub. As we walked into the park, I could feel the excitement radiating off of the bodies. Then the time came for them to actually ride the slides, and by the time they came out into the pool at the bottom, all their excitement was spewing from the smiles. Now, I know that you think that your photography is "no big deal" but I want you to think about what you are accomplishing. If I were to tell you " I am going to sugar rush your kids to the point of borderline seizures, overstimulate with activities that make ADHD seem mellow, and surround them with high speed enjoyment, and I want you to get pictures of them looking straight at the camera and smiling," many people would walk away in defeat and take up an easier task like uncovering the fountain of yoouth, or discovering the location of the lost city of Atlantis. Most people would not have a way to compete with the surrounding venue and just resign to having distracted, half-developed grins, and over-the-shoulder glances. But you somehow thrive in this setting. Our blog is filled with pictures that make observers feel they were present, and when we review them as a family, make us relive the vivid memories with glee.
Now, you may say that this does not bring love peace and happiness, again I will tell you that you are wrong! We can hardly drive across town without the kids asking for a story. they love to hear our accounts of memories of the adventures and mayhem that have consumed our family over the years. I will admit, they always turn to me to be the narrator of the tales, but I have to let you in on a secret. One way that I am able to remember the chronicles of Holloways is by referring back to the pictures you have taken. many, many times I have looked through your photographs and blog and surveyed the displays. I am then able to remember stories much easier because I recall the entertaining pictures that you have taken to capture such exciting moments.
I love that one of your talents and hobbies is to photo-document the way we pass the hours. I love you so much.
Love,
Brandon
This week again, I felt that you brought love peace and happiness to our home by capturing our family activities with your photography. This week we had the chance to go to H2O water park in Pampa. It. Was. Awesome. the weather was perfect and the activities were enough to wear out five children that had used an entire months worth of junk food calories in just one night.
I think I could write a whole book about the slides, the lazy river, and the pool area, but it still wouldn't compare to how you captured the evening with a few pictures. I sometimes feel that we get invited to events just because those inviting know that you will take amazing pictures and promote the adventure to the point that it becomes the next hottest party.
This evening was no exception. The kids have missed water slides so much that I'm pretty sure they tried to recreate one in the bathtub. As we walked into the park, I could feel the excitement radiating off of the bodies. Then the time came for them to actually ride the slides, and by the time they came out into the pool at the bottom, all their excitement was spewing from the smiles. Now, I know that you think that your photography is "no big deal" but I want you to think about what you are accomplishing. If I were to tell you " I am going to sugar rush your kids to the point of borderline seizures, overstimulate with activities that make ADHD seem mellow, and surround them with high speed enjoyment, and I want you to get pictures of them looking straight at the camera and smiling," many people would walk away in defeat and take up an easier task like uncovering the fountain of yoouth, or discovering the location of the lost city of Atlantis. Most people would not have a way to compete with the surrounding venue and just resign to having distracted, half-developed grins, and over-the-shoulder glances. But you somehow thrive in this setting. Our blog is filled with pictures that make observers feel they were present, and when we review them as a family, make us relive the vivid memories with glee.
Now, you may say that this does not bring love peace and happiness, again I will tell you that you are wrong! We can hardly drive across town without the kids asking for a story. they love to hear our accounts of memories of the adventures and mayhem that have consumed our family over the years. I will admit, they always turn to me to be the narrator of the tales, but I have to let you in on a secret. One way that I am able to remember the chronicles of Holloways is by referring back to the pictures you have taken. many, many times I have looked through your photographs and blog and surveyed the displays. I am then able to remember stories much easier because I recall the entertaining pictures that you have taken to capture such exciting moments.
I love that one of your talents and hobbies is to photo-document the way we pass the hours. I love you so much.
Love,
Brandon
Sunday, June 21, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I feel like I can't thank you enough for being who you are. You are so giving and caring. You naturally make efforts to make others feel comfortable and accommodated and without realizing it, you bring so much love peace and happiness to our home.
This week we had family visit our home. You are so thoughtful. I'm not sure if it is fueled by our personal experiences of being uncomfortable guests in other's homes or if you just believe that if you make company comfortable, they will come back more often. You have gone through such efforts to make our guest room hotel quality and all visitors love it. I think my mom looks forward to seeing what kind of chocolate you will leave, and Mindi said multiple times that the sheets were the most comfortable she had ever experienced. Now, I would like to take credit for these details but we both know that if I was spearheading the accommodations,the most luxurious feature would be the fact that there are no booby traps rigged to sting, startle, or trip our visitors.
Then there is the food. I still haven't figured out if you really think that the food you provide is impromptu, unorganized and mundane, or if you just want others to think you believe that. Either way, everyone eats like royalty when they visit. You are always so thoughtful to provide variety and take into consideration what others will want. You are always eager to slave away in the kitchen and prepare everything with very little assistance. Again, I'm not sure if you are really so kind hearted that you can't bear the thougt of puting a damper on their vacation by expecting assistance, or if it is just a clever way to have some precious time avoiding my family :) but your efforts to keep things going smoothly and tastily are always appreciated and anticipated by all who are lucky enough to partake.
And now for my favorite part of the week. Fathers Day!!! you out did yourself this year. I have tried to vocalize how wonderful you have made this day but I don't feel like it will ever be enough to show you how grateful I am. You got me the most awesome gift ever. I feel so overwhelmed and unworthy of the bike that you got me that I feel guilty for having it. You went through so much effort to find the perfect gift, then have it picked up, set up, and presented in unequivocal fashion. I still remember how excited I was when I received my first bike when I was 7 years old. I couldn't wait to ride it every minute of the day. I felt like I finally understood the freedom that our forefathers had fought to obtain and it wasn't until I had one of my own that I realized that the likely cause of the revolutionary war was the invention of the bicycle. I went to bed dreaming about the voyages that were just in front of my handlebars and woke up thirsting for the adventures that only a two-wheeled, self-propelled miraculous mode of transportation could provide. Somehow, that same excitement has returned and while I find it easier to resist the urge to write a series of children's novels about a Young boy who saves the world from various evil villains with nothing but the assistance of his trusty BMX, I do look forward to any spare minute I have to hit the trails.
I hope you know how much the little efforts you make bring so much joy to all those around you.
I love you!
Brandon
This week I feel like I can't thank you enough for being who you are. You are so giving and caring. You naturally make efforts to make others feel comfortable and accommodated and without realizing it, you bring so much love peace and happiness to our home.
This week we had family visit our home. You are so thoughtful. I'm not sure if it is fueled by our personal experiences of being uncomfortable guests in other's homes or if you just believe that if you make company comfortable, they will come back more often. You have gone through such efforts to make our guest room hotel quality and all visitors love it. I think my mom looks forward to seeing what kind of chocolate you will leave, and Mindi said multiple times that the sheets were the most comfortable she had ever experienced. Now, I would like to take credit for these details but we both know that if I was spearheading the accommodations,the most luxurious feature would be the fact that there are no booby traps rigged to sting, startle, or trip our visitors.
Then there is the food. I still haven't figured out if you really think that the food you provide is impromptu, unorganized and mundane, or if you just want others to think you believe that. Either way, everyone eats like royalty when they visit. You are always so thoughtful to provide variety and take into consideration what others will want. You are always eager to slave away in the kitchen and prepare everything with very little assistance. Again, I'm not sure if you are really so kind hearted that you can't bear the thougt of puting a damper on their vacation by expecting assistance, or if it is just a clever way to have some precious time avoiding my family :) but your efforts to keep things going smoothly and tastily are always appreciated and anticipated by all who are lucky enough to partake.
And now for my favorite part of the week. Fathers Day!!! you out did yourself this year. I have tried to vocalize how wonderful you have made this day but I don't feel like it will ever be enough to show you how grateful I am. You got me the most awesome gift ever. I feel so overwhelmed and unworthy of the bike that you got me that I feel guilty for having it. You went through so much effort to find the perfect gift, then have it picked up, set up, and presented in unequivocal fashion. I still remember how excited I was when I received my first bike when I was 7 years old. I couldn't wait to ride it every minute of the day. I felt like I finally understood the freedom that our forefathers had fought to obtain and it wasn't until I had one of my own that I realized that the likely cause of the revolutionary war was the invention of the bicycle. I went to bed dreaming about the voyages that were just in front of my handlebars and woke up thirsting for the adventures that only a two-wheeled, self-propelled miraculous mode of transportation could provide. Somehow, that same excitement has returned and while I find it easier to resist the urge to write a series of children's novels about a Young boy who saves the world from various evil villains with nothing but the assistance of his trusty BMX, I do look forward to any spare minute I have to hit the trails.
I hope you know how much the little efforts you make bring so much joy to all those around you.
I love you!
Brandon
Monday, June 15, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I think your attention to detail has brought love peace and happiness. Now, you may not believe me when I say this because we both know there are times that I have refereed to your attention to detail as OCD, obsession and control freakiness, but I am focusing on the positive.
This week ( as well as the past few weeks) you have been involved in planning a trip for he two of us. Whether it is to celebrate a birthday, anniversary surviving being done with residency for one year or any of the other 346 thousand blessings we have to rejoice in is irrelevant. the fact remains that we have worked hard to get to this point and I think we deserve to treat ourselves. You have taken all the responsibility upon yourself to ensure that this trip is perfect in every way. First, you have recognized that you would not be able to enjoy the getaway unless you know that we did not pay anymore for the plane tickets than we had to. You have scoured the airlines to find the best flight times, layovers and prices possible. that has not been a easy task but you have done it well.
Then, you have spent the past several weeks researching all the available activities including places to stay, restaurants, extracurricular activities, beaches, proximity to church, reviews and I'm pretty sure you you have already met 5 or 6 people who will be there at the same time and want to get together with us.
I want you to know that your efforts have not gone unnoticed. i appreciate so much how much you value this time and want it to go perfectly. Rarely go things just fall into place with no effort, but you are taking all the work on yourself to make sure that we can enjoy this getaway and strengthen our relationship. I am not naive to how much work you have put into our vacation time and I look forward to it so much. You somehow have factored in both of our interests, our likes and dislikes, and time available to somehow plan the perfect vacation and I thank you for that.
This same attention to detail is what has allowed us to run a successful practice, have and raise 5 children, survive school and residency, and enjoy it along the way.
I love you,
Brandon
This week I think your attention to detail has brought love peace and happiness. Now, you may not believe me when I say this because we both know there are times that I have refereed to your attention to detail as OCD, obsession and control freakiness, but I am focusing on the positive.
This week ( as well as the past few weeks) you have been involved in planning a trip for he two of us. Whether it is to celebrate a birthday, anniversary surviving being done with residency for one year or any of the other 346 thousand blessings we have to rejoice in is irrelevant. the fact remains that we have worked hard to get to this point and I think we deserve to treat ourselves. You have taken all the responsibility upon yourself to ensure that this trip is perfect in every way. First, you have recognized that you would not be able to enjoy the getaway unless you know that we did not pay anymore for the plane tickets than we had to. You have scoured the airlines to find the best flight times, layovers and prices possible. that has not been a easy task but you have done it well.
Then, you have spent the past several weeks researching all the available activities including places to stay, restaurants, extracurricular activities, beaches, proximity to church, reviews and I'm pretty sure you you have already met 5 or 6 people who will be there at the same time and want to get together with us.
I want you to know that your efforts have not gone unnoticed. i appreciate so much how much you value this time and want it to go perfectly. Rarely go things just fall into place with no effort, but you are taking all the work on yourself to make sure that we can enjoy this getaway and strengthen our relationship. I am not naive to how much work you have put into our vacation time and I look forward to it so much. You somehow have factored in both of our interests, our likes and dislikes, and time available to somehow plan the perfect vacation and I thank you for that.
This same attention to detail is what has allowed us to run a successful practice, have and raise 5 children, survive school and residency, and enjoy it along the way.
I love you,
Brandon
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Dear Rachel,
As I am doing these posts I realize that many of the things you do to bring love peace and happiness, start out as being opposed to what I say. I'm not sure if that means I am the enemy to Peace or if it just takes me longer to catch the vision. This week was the last week of school. The kids had worked very hard all year and were all very successful. They had all developed a relationship with their teachers and wanted to do something special to show their appreciation. It had been, what is becoming, a typical day for us, working like crazy, running all over town, meetings, and maybe in meal if there was enough time. The kids were getting ready for be and Kaden reminded you that he wanted to so something for their teachers. I'm pretty sure you stopped yourself as you were falling to the cough in mid collapse and went to the store for a gift for the teachers.
While I was not in support of this at first, the more I thought about it the more I realized it brought love peace in a happiness in a few different ways. The Kids were thrilled because it gave them a chance to feel like they had a special relationship with their teachers. I think they have developed your sense of love and they like to show that through unexpected actions. The teachers got to be surprised and I'm sure they were honored to receive anything from their students. I'm sure teaching is a job that can got unnoticed, taken for granted and unappreciated so any toke of gratitude is probably cherished.
you ware great at doing little acts that show others how much they are needed and you have instilled the same thoughtful nature in our children.
Thank you for all you do, I love you.
Brandon
As I am doing these posts I realize that many of the things you do to bring love peace and happiness, start out as being opposed to what I say. I'm not sure if that means I am the enemy to Peace or if it just takes me longer to catch the vision. This week was the last week of school. The kids had worked very hard all year and were all very successful. They had all developed a relationship with their teachers and wanted to do something special to show their appreciation. It had been, what is becoming, a typical day for us, working like crazy, running all over town, meetings, and maybe in meal if there was enough time. The kids were getting ready for be and Kaden reminded you that he wanted to so something for their teachers. I'm pretty sure you stopped yourself as you were falling to the cough in mid collapse and went to the store for a gift for the teachers.
While I was not in support of this at first, the more I thought about it the more I realized it brought love peace in a happiness in a few different ways. The Kids were thrilled because it gave them a chance to feel like they had a special relationship with their teachers. I think they have developed your sense of love and they like to show that through unexpected actions. The teachers got to be surprised and I'm sure they were honored to receive anything from their students. I'm sure teaching is a job that can got unnoticed, taken for granted and unappreciated so any toke of gratitude is probably cherished.
you ware great at doing little acts that show others how much they are needed and you have instilled the same thoughtful nature in our children.
Thank you for all you do, I love you.
Brandon
Monday, June 1, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This post is actually your mothers day post. I know its late but I think that is becoming a habit. I would like to say better late than never but I'm not sure if you will agree with me or not. I have noticed that you bring love peace and happiness to our home by being a great mother.
Every mothers day I think back to our first as a married couple. You were about 9 months and 3 days pregnant and didn't feel like you could celebrate because you were not " an official mother". I remember our sacrament meeting and how all the moms that spoke, talked about why they hated mothers day. I remember being appalled that they could feel that way, but now I have started to understand. I see how celebrating the wonderful things that you do, could unintentionally make you think of how you are not as consistent as you would like to be. Well, I want this post to remember many of the things that you have done to bring love, peace and happiness to our home.
You have taught our children to love music. Kaden and Jenna have become so smitten with the piano lately that it seems there is always some song drifting through our home. Spencer has developed an appreciation for listening to you sing( Which, if I'm honest, is enough for me because if that boy tries to sing himself we are likely to be accused of torturing small animals.) I love to hear you sing to the kids. It brings such a calming peace, and while we are probably one of the worst groups of back up singers you could ask for, we do love singing with you.
You love each of our kids individually. I think this is a sign of a great mom. You have a special relationship with each one that is customized to what they need. They each feel comfortable enough to go to you with what they need. You have established a safe home and a loving setting where they can grow and mature into whoever they want to be.
I think a great mother is one who makes sure that her children know that they are loved. She worries about the type of person her kids will grow up to be and does everything in her power to make sure they have the tools necessary to be successful. I see you do this everyday.
You are a great Mom and we are so lucky to have you in our family.
We love you!
This post is actually your mothers day post. I know its late but I think that is becoming a habit. I would like to say better late than never but I'm not sure if you will agree with me or not. I have noticed that you bring love peace and happiness to our home by being a great mother.
Every mothers day I think back to our first as a married couple. You were about 9 months and 3 days pregnant and didn't feel like you could celebrate because you were not " an official mother". I remember our sacrament meeting and how all the moms that spoke, talked about why they hated mothers day. I remember being appalled that they could feel that way, but now I have started to understand. I see how celebrating the wonderful things that you do, could unintentionally make you think of how you are not as consistent as you would like to be. Well, I want this post to remember many of the things that you have done to bring love, peace and happiness to our home.
You have taught our children to love music. Kaden and Jenna have become so smitten with the piano lately that it seems there is always some song drifting through our home. Spencer has developed an appreciation for listening to you sing( Which, if I'm honest, is enough for me because if that boy tries to sing himself we are likely to be accused of torturing small animals.) I love to hear you sing to the kids. It brings such a calming peace, and while we are probably one of the worst groups of back up singers you could ask for, we do love singing with you.
You love each of our kids individually. I think this is a sign of a great mom. You have a special relationship with each one that is customized to what they need. They each feel comfortable enough to go to you with what they need. You have established a safe home and a loving setting where they can grow and mature into whoever they want to be.
I think a great mother is one who makes sure that her children know that they are loved. She worries about the type of person her kids will grow up to be and does everything in her power to make sure they have the tools necessary to be successful. I see you do this everyday.
You are a great Mom and we are so lucky to have you in our family.
We love you!
Monday, May 18, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This post is actually from a few weeks ago. (sorry I'm getting behind, I'll catch up!) That week, I really noticed the love peace and happiness you bring to our family by setting a good example. I know that you are and example to our kids daily. You lift up the sisters in the ward constantly. You inspire hundreds with your healthy life style, beautiful pictures and heartfelt internet posts. But this week I want to talk about your example to me.
This week was spent much like the last few, trying to cram 30 hours of responsibilities into 24. I was putting the kids to be and you were running some errands. It has been a realatively uneventful night so I was caught off guard when I went in to say good night to Jenna and she was in tears. Despite knowing it was a huge mistake, I asked her what was wrong and she responded with the answer that every male dreads. "I don't know, I just feel like crying".
I automatically debates which of my top 3 responses I could resort to.
1. Stand very still and hope she doesn't see me.
2. Tell her I wold send mom into help. I probably would have done this has you been home.
3. Tell her to go drown her unknown sorrows in a bowl of ice cream with the hopes that Ben&Jerry are better fathers than I could dream of being.
Then I thought "What would Rachel do?" I thought back to how tender and loving you are with the kids. I thought of how you demonstrate extreme understanding, even when it is not deserved. Now, I do not pretend that I handled the situation with the same comforting peace that you would have. But I can honestly say I tried to demonstrate the charity that I see you show daily. As I held our sweet pre teen, the situation converted into and sweet memory that I will cherish. I contribute it you your example. I hope you know how much you influence our family even when you are not around.
I love you,
Brandon.
This post is actually from a few weeks ago. (sorry I'm getting behind, I'll catch up!) That week, I really noticed the love peace and happiness you bring to our family by setting a good example. I know that you are and example to our kids daily. You lift up the sisters in the ward constantly. You inspire hundreds with your healthy life style, beautiful pictures and heartfelt internet posts. But this week I want to talk about your example to me.
This week was spent much like the last few, trying to cram 30 hours of responsibilities into 24. I was putting the kids to be and you were running some errands. It has been a realatively uneventful night so I was caught off guard when I went in to say good night to Jenna and she was in tears. Despite knowing it was a huge mistake, I asked her what was wrong and she responded with the answer that every male dreads. "I don't know, I just feel like crying".
I automatically debates which of my top 3 responses I could resort to.
1. Stand very still and hope she doesn't see me.
2. Tell her I wold send mom into help. I probably would have done this has you been home.
3. Tell her to go drown her unknown sorrows in a bowl of ice cream with the hopes that Ben&Jerry are better fathers than I could dream of being.
Then I thought "What would Rachel do?" I thought back to how tender and loving you are with the kids. I thought of how you demonstrate extreme understanding, even when it is not deserved. Now, I do not pretend that I handled the situation with the same comforting peace that you would have. But I can honestly say I tried to demonstrate the charity that I see you show daily. As I held our sweet pre teen, the situation converted into and sweet memory that I will cherish. I contribute it you your example. I hope you know how much you influence our family even when you are not around.
I love you,
Brandon.
Monday, May 4, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I have felt you bring love peace and happiness to the home by, once again, being supportive. This week Grandpa Larson passed away and for whatever reason, it it me a little harder than I thought it would. You were amazing.
You listened to me reminisce and share experiences I had with him. You laughed with me, came close to crying with me, and hugged me when I needed it. I know there were some times where I was ornery just because it had been a long week, and you let me vent, took over some of my responsibilities and cut me way more slack than I probably deserved.
Then, as if that wasn't enough, you found me a way to go home for the funeral. You are good and noticing what is important to our family, and making it happen. It is very easy for my personality to say " I wish I could, but its not convenient so I won't..." but you approach life with a different attitude and really look for a way to get things done. I appreciate that his week. You researched all the options, many I would not have even thought of, and found a way to make it work. Then you had the inspiration enough( yes I'm going with it was inspiration) to check the flights again, after you had already looked, to find a flight that would work our perfectly. I truly feel like you helped to perform a little miracle and I love you for that.
I was so glad that I could make it home for the funeral and you are 100% responsible for that. It gave me a chance to support my grandma, see family that I hadn't seen in years, and have a chance to grieve.
I love you so much,
Brandon
This week I have felt you bring love peace and happiness to the home by, once again, being supportive. This week Grandpa Larson passed away and for whatever reason, it it me a little harder than I thought it would. You were amazing.
You listened to me reminisce and share experiences I had with him. You laughed with me, came close to crying with me, and hugged me when I needed it. I know there were some times where I was ornery just because it had been a long week, and you let me vent, took over some of my responsibilities and cut me way more slack than I probably deserved.
Then, as if that wasn't enough, you found me a way to go home for the funeral. You are good and noticing what is important to our family, and making it happen. It is very easy for my personality to say " I wish I could, but its not convenient so I won't..." but you approach life with a different attitude and really look for a way to get things done. I appreciate that his week. You researched all the options, many I would not have even thought of, and found a way to make it work. Then you had the inspiration enough( yes I'm going with it was inspiration) to check the flights again, after you had already looked, to find a flight that would work our perfectly. I truly feel like you helped to perform a little miracle and I love you for that.
I was so glad that I could make it home for the funeral and you are 100% responsible for that. It gave me a chance to support my grandma, see family that I hadn't seen in years, and have a chance to grieve.
I love you so much,
Brandon
Monday, April 20, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week, I noticed how much you being YOU brings love, peace and happiness. You are a caring mother, wife and friend, and you strive to develop one on one relationships with each of our children. This is not something that could ever be replaced. Even if there are not many thank yous that come your way, the kids love the effort that you put into being involved with their lives.
This week was not completely smooth. We had a fight. It was dumb, I was running of very little sleep, longs days and less food than usual, and I overreacted. I appreciated your apology so much. I was feeling like I couldn't do anything right and when you told me that you were sorry, it really helped me feel validated and understood and I thank you for that. I had been developing in my mind arguments for why I was right and how you should be different, and as soon as you said "I'm sorry", all those frustrations melted away.
Poor Kaden also witnessed this argument and his tender spirit was so sensitive. You were incredible with him. You pulled him aside to assure him that we were just temporarily upset and it was not permanent. Then you made him know that he is a special part of the family and he is loved. You listened to his concerns and then brought reassurence and peace to his sweet heart.
You also have such calming affect on Jenna. This week I think she was feeling lonely, unappreciated, and vulnerable. You took the time to sit with her and just listen. You talked with her on the phone when you were not here, and you soothed her over analyzing thoughts. I realized over the past couple of weeks that my biggest fears are probably loosing one of our family members, being hunted by a jaguar, and Jenna entering the teen years. While I do think that your ability to avoid disaster and fight big cats may be limited, I feel peace about Jenna becoming a teen. You have developed a wonderful relationship with her and yo are such a vital part of her life that I feel that even the crazy hormones that have caused so much destruction and devastation throughout the world can be calmed. Jenna depends on you as a support and I hope you realize that you fill a role that no one else can. While I certainly enjoy my time and relationship with her, I fully recognize that there are some things she will not come to me for, and I cherish the the thought that she has you to turn to for those things.
One of the reasons I wanted to do this blog was to show you that even during weeks where it may seem that love, peace and happiness are lacking, you still bring it to our home.
I love you.
Brandon
Dear Rachel,
This week, one thing that I want to recognize that you do to bring love, peace and happiness to our home is you take pride in your work.
Whether it be a ward bulletin, a valentine's box for one of the kids, or an office that represents our investment or time, money and hard work, you give it one hundred percent. You are not very good at cutting corners or taking shortcuts, and it always leaves you with a pristine result, that you, and everyone else, is pleased with. This week, you have dedicated many hours to finding the perfect furniture, decorations and furnishings to give our office a professional look.You have taken on the task to make sure the office looks and feels like a place that you would want to g, and more importantly, and place you want to own. I know I don't have to worry about the appearance because I know you will make sure that it is up to par. I appreciate all your hard work so much.
You are dedicated. you put so much time and effort into our business, family, church and live in general. I love the efforts you are taking to promote the practice and build relations with other businesses. you have a natural talent for marketing and I am so blessed to have you on my team.
I hope you know how much your dedication brings love peace and happiness to our home. If you take on a task I have complete trust that it will get done to the best of your ability. it takes off a ton of responsibility when I ask you to do something because I feel like I never have to think about it again. But your dedication and efforts are not just placed in work. We need you as part of our family for the same reason. I love how you always try to involve the Gospel in our lives. The same loyalty I feel for our business, I also feel when we talk about teaching our children the gospel. You constantly increase our efforts to read the scriptures, go to the temple and have family time/prayer.
I sure enjoy teasing you about your need for everything to be perfect, but the truth is, I love having your dedication to perfection in our home. I love you,
Love Brandon.
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Dear Rachel,
I am amazed by you this week. You were at the office almost as much as I was! You worked so hard to get things organized and ready to run full speed ahead. I would feel like a terrible person if I didn't mention all the efforts that you have made this week with our business, but that is not the biggest thing that I noticed this week that you have done to bring love peace and happiness to our home. This week I noticed your love of the gospel.
We have been promised that by following the teachings of Jesus Christ, we will have love, peace and happiness, and you work so hard to bring that to our home daily.
This week is general conference. You have the best ideas to get everyone involved (much more creative that straight up conference bingo). But you do more than just set up the games. You get so excited about it that you pass it on to the rest of us. It has been a wonderful weekend of uplifting messages. The kids have been involved, talked with us about the topics and even made gaols for improving.
Of course I can't forget my favorite Easter tradition that you started, RESURRECTION ROLLS! You found this tradition years ago and it has turned into a wonderful , fun and tasty teaching experience. While I will never understand your bitter dislike for the Easter Bunny, you have made a lasting impression with the Resurrection rolls.
This week I have felt the spirit in our home as we have celebrated, honored and remembered our savior and I appreciate all the efforts that you do to make this a daily occurrence.
I love you,
Brandon
I am amazed by you this week. You were at the office almost as much as I was! You worked so hard to get things organized and ready to run full speed ahead. I would feel like a terrible person if I didn't mention all the efforts that you have made this week with our business, but that is not the biggest thing that I noticed this week that you have done to bring love peace and happiness to our home. This week I noticed your love of the gospel.
We have been promised that by following the teachings of Jesus Christ, we will have love, peace and happiness, and you work so hard to bring that to our home daily.
This week is general conference. You have the best ideas to get everyone involved (much more creative that straight up conference bingo). But you do more than just set up the games. You get so excited about it that you pass it on to the rest of us. It has been a wonderful weekend of uplifting messages. The kids have been involved, talked with us about the topics and even made gaols for improving.
Of course I can't forget my favorite Easter tradition that you started, RESURRECTION ROLLS! You found this tradition years ago and it has turned into a wonderful , fun and tasty teaching experience. While I will never understand your bitter dislike for the Easter Bunny, you have made a lasting impression with the Resurrection rolls.
This week I have felt the spirit in our home as we have celebrated, honored and remembered our savior and I appreciate all the efforts that you do to make this a daily occurrence.
I love you,
Brandon
Dear Rachel,
This is a difficult post for me to write because as I am trying to write about your bringing love, peace and happiness to our home, all I can think about is your smug face as you were able to solve in 8 seconds, the computer problem that had plagued me for the last 15 minutes. J/K.
This week I think we had some wonderful conversations and it led to me loving you even more. The other day you had a dream and you woke up almost in tears. Apparently, in your dream, we were no longer married and you were devastated. While I don't enjoy seeing you sad, we did end up having a great conversation about our relationship, things that we do well, and goals we have for improvement. So, one thing that I noticed that brought love peace and happiness to me this week, was your efforts in our relationship.
I have heard many times that a successful marriage is not 50/50 but only works if each person is giving 100%. You definitely do that!! You work so hard to give us your best. I appreciate all the meals, paying bills, shopping and raising our children that you do. I also love the playing games( not emotional games, but board games), sharing pictures, building of testimonies, and mutual support that we experience together. You always try to make my favorite foods, give me time for hobbies, and support me in my responsibilites and I know that is not always easy. I notice all the efforts that you do and I love you for it every day.
I Love you!!
Brandon
This is a difficult post for me to write because as I am trying to write about your bringing love, peace and happiness to our home, all I can think about is your smug face as you were able to solve in 8 seconds, the computer problem that had plagued me for the last 15 minutes. J/K.
This week I think we had some wonderful conversations and it led to me loving you even more. The other day you had a dream and you woke up almost in tears. Apparently, in your dream, we were no longer married and you were devastated. While I don't enjoy seeing you sad, we did end up having a great conversation about our relationship, things that we do well, and goals we have for improvement. So, one thing that I noticed that brought love peace and happiness to me this week, was your efforts in our relationship.
I have heard many times that a successful marriage is not 50/50 but only works if each person is giving 100%. You definitely do that!! You work so hard to give us your best. I appreciate all the meals, paying bills, shopping and raising our children that you do. I also love the playing games( not emotional games, but board games), sharing pictures, building of testimonies, and mutual support that we experience together. You always try to make my favorite foods, give me time for hobbies, and support me in my responsibilites and I know that is not always easy. I notice all the efforts that you do and I love you for it every day.
I Love you!!
Brandon
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I honestly contemplated not writing a post because I wasn't sure if we wanted to relive it. It was not our most graceful week. But I did see you consistently bring love, peace and happiness despite the difficulties that we had. Your patience, compassion and calm nature helped make this week a successful one instead of a complete nightmare.
This week started with our car developing problems, and while your quick decisions to replace it with a new and upgraded model do give me some concern about how I would be treated should I develop expensive complications, it also allowed us not have it consume our lives for very long. I remember in the past, we have looked for cars and it felt like every conversation we had for weeks was about a vehicle and every free moment we found was spent test driving, researching and haggling. I know we are in a different place in life now, but it certainly seemed less painful this time and I know a lot of that is because of the effort you put in.
We also had a death virus traveling around our house. I was amazed with the entire feeling of service that enveloped our home. I had plans of hiding out in the bedroom dressing a poncho to protect me from flying regurgitation and waiting until the devastation had passed, but you were our in the line of fire cleaning, catering and showing empathy. While it was not a fun week, I did not feel the life sucking despair that i should have felt under these circumstances. The kids that were not sick seemed to pitch in more and really wanted to be part of the care giving. Even Carter, who resembled a holocaust victim, seemed to be filled with charity. He had not kept anything down for days and was so thirsty that he carried around a cup of water to give to any other non-nauseated observer who may need some liquid refreshment. He spent the week hugging us and saying " I love you". It was so sweet, and i know it was because of your example and compassion that you showed him.
I love you more every day.
Love Brandon
This week I honestly contemplated not writing a post because I wasn't sure if we wanted to relive it. It was not our most graceful week. But I did see you consistently bring love, peace and happiness despite the difficulties that we had. Your patience, compassion and calm nature helped make this week a successful one instead of a complete nightmare.
This week started with our car developing problems, and while your quick decisions to replace it with a new and upgraded model do give me some concern about how I would be treated should I develop expensive complications, it also allowed us not have it consume our lives for very long. I remember in the past, we have looked for cars and it felt like every conversation we had for weeks was about a vehicle and every free moment we found was spent test driving, researching and haggling. I know we are in a different place in life now, but it certainly seemed less painful this time and I know a lot of that is because of the effort you put in.
We also had a death virus traveling around our house. I was amazed with the entire feeling of service that enveloped our home. I had plans of hiding out in the bedroom dressing a poncho to protect me from flying regurgitation and waiting until the devastation had passed, but you were our in the line of fire cleaning, catering and showing empathy. While it was not a fun week, I did not feel the life sucking despair that i should have felt under these circumstances. The kids that were not sick seemed to pitch in more and really wanted to be part of the care giving. Even Carter, who resembled a holocaust victim, seemed to be filled with charity. He had not kept anything down for days and was so thirsty that he carried around a cup of water to give to any other non-nauseated observer who may need some liquid refreshment. He spent the week hugging us and saying " I love you". It was so sweet, and i know it was because of your example and compassion that you showed him.
I love you more every day.
Love Brandon
Dear Rachel,
I am so glad to have you home again. This week was spring break and you went to Idaho for a few days. The week went by quickly but, also, it somehow felt like you were gone way longer than a few days. Even when you are supposed to be on vacation, you somehow find a way to bring love peace and happiness to our home.
First, you planned so many things for us to do at home to ensure we would not have a boring time. You researched out movies that were playing, activities that others were doing so we could coordinate, and stocked us full on food. You set the stage for a great spring break, then let others take all the credit and have the memories. That is truly selfless and we love you for that.
All week, I also noticed things that were missing from our home. The loving bedtimes is not something I can ever replace. Every night as the kids got in bed there was the lacking of your calming presence. even when things went great and everyone was cooperating, it was still a time that your absence was noticed. We all just felt like something was missing from bedtime.
We also were well aware of the glaring hole in my creativity. You have this wonderful ability to take the activity we are doing and turn it into the most exciting event of the year. We had a great time camping in the backyard, but I couldn't help but think that if you were there, you would have actually created a forest in the backyard, or somehow bused in a herd of deer to graze on our lawn so we could experience nature. You have unparalleled creativity that makes bad events good, and good events unforgettable. I honestly tried to take enough pictures to capture the day we had at Palo Duro canyon. I felt like I was taking pictures every chance I got and I was excited to look back though them to relive our exciting adventures. What I discovered is that my relentless photography turned out to be half a dozen snap shots and the rest, ( probably no more that 20) were repeats, bloopers, or unrecognizable shadows. I have tried to talk about it as much as I can to ensure that the kids remember it, since there is not the beautiful masterful mosaic of art that usually sums up our outings. We are so excited to have you home and so blessed to have you as a loving, peaceful, happy part of our family.
I love you,
Brandon
I am so glad to have you home again. This week was spring break and you went to Idaho for a few days. The week went by quickly but, also, it somehow felt like you were gone way longer than a few days. Even when you are supposed to be on vacation, you somehow find a way to bring love peace and happiness to our home.
First, you planned so many things for us to do at home to ensure we would not have a boring time. You researched out movies that were playing, activities that others were doing so we could coordinate, and stocked us full on food. You set the stage for a great spring break, then let others take all the credit and have the memories. That is truly selfless and we love you for that.
All week, I also noticed things that were missing from our home. The loving bedtimes is not something I can ever replace. Every night as the kids got in bed there was the lacking of your calming presence. even when things went great and everyone was cooperating, it was still a time that your absence was noticed. We all just felt like something was missing from bedtime.
We also were well aware of the glaring hole in my creativity. You have this wonderful ability to take the activity we are doing and turn it into the most exciting event of the year. We had a great time camping in the backyard, but I couldn't help but think that if you were there, you would have actually created a forest in the backyard, or somehow bused in a herd of deer to graze on our lawn so we could experience nature. You have unparalleled creativity that makes bad events good, and good events unforgettable. I honestly tried to take enough pictures to capture the day we had at Palo Duro canyon. I felt like I was taking pictures every chance I got and I was excited to look back though them to relive our exciting adventures. What I discovered is that my relentless photography turned out to be half a dozen snap shots and the rest, ( probably no more that 20) were repeats, bloopers, or unrecognizable shadows. I have tried to talk about it as much as I can to ensure that the kids remember it, since there is not the beautiful masterful mosaic of art that usually sums up our outings. We are so excited to have you home and so blessed to have you as a loving, peaceful, happy part of our family.
I love you,
Brandon
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This is your birthday week, and while I debated including this post as part of a birthday present, I decided against it. The reality is that I have thought a lot this week about how blessed I am and how you really make my life better in every way. I have written notes and birthday cards saying some of that and I don't want to get repetitive but I want you to know how special you are. This week I have noticed you bring love, peace and happiness into our home by your calming attitude. You are good at not reacting to the overreactions that sometimes occur in our home.
For example, this week one of our children who will remain nameless has become way too emotional about everyday events. I have seen her(still keeping her nameless) burst into tears about the the weather, the day of the week it is, location of pens around the house and countless other near earth ending catastrophes. I have become very good and escalating these events to within inches of the spontaneous combustion of the entire universe, sometimes by simply asking if it is worth getting worked up over. You, however, have found ways to deal with this in a much less psychologically damaging manner.
Your calming presence allows all of our kids a chance to calm down and evaluate the situation. I have seen you, over the last few weeks, make a special effort to avoid contention and promote the spirit in our home. You have changed the subject, offered alternative choices, and helped focus on positive energy with each of the kids this week to keep peace in our home.
Thank you for looking for ways to ensure that our family learns ways to keep peace in our home. That is a skill that will serve all of us through out our lives and I want to thank you again for all of your efforts.
I love you,
Brandon.
This is your birthday week, and while I debated including this post as part of a birthday present, I decided against it. The reality is that I have thought a lot this week about how blessed I am and how you really make my life better in every way. I have written notes and birthday cards saying some of that and I don't want to get repetitive but I want you to know how special you are. This week I have noticed you bring love, peace and happiness into our home by your calming attitude. You are good at not reacting to the overreactions that sometimes occur in our home.
For example, this week one of our children who will remain nameless has become way too emotional about everyday events. I have seen her(still keeping her nameless) burst into tears about the the weather, the day of the week it is, location of pens around the house and countless other near earth ending catastrophes. I have become very good and escalating these events to within inches of the spontaneous combustion of the entire universe, sometimes by simply asking if it is worth getting worked up over. You, however, have found ways to deal with this in a much less psychologically damaging manner.
Your calming presence allows all of our kids a chance to calm down and evaluate the situation. I have seen you, over the last few weeks, make a special effort to avoid contention and promote the spirit in our home. You have changed the subject, offered alternative choices, and helped focus on positive energy with each of the kids this week to keep peace in our home.
Thank you for looking for ways to ensure that our family learns ways to keep peace in our home. That is a skill that will serve all of us through out our lives and I want to thank you again for all of your efforts.
I love you,
Brandon.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Dear Rachel,
As I sit down to write this, my mind is flooded with the 1.6 million things that we have going on this week. I then reflect on the equally overwhelming number of activities that we have overcome this past week and I come to the horrifying conclusion that life is not slowing down. I feel like we have major events going on every weekend and the closest thing we get to a break is the car ride from one place to another. This week, at one point, I had the thought that my 100 mile race was just a feeble attempt to get me in shape to survive life. Now, I do not write all of this to give you a coronary event as the frightening responsibilities of loom in the future. I write this because it demonstrates the quality of yours that I noticed this week that bring love peace and happiness to our awesome family. YOU ARE A HARD WORKER!!
Since day one of being married you have embraced the workload that has come to be a mundane part of our life. You went to school, worked at a call center, managed our bills and home, all the while being pregnant. I remember at the time foolishly thinking that life would be easier when it slowed down. Since then, you have supported me through med school, residency, owning and running a business and having 5 kids. Daily I tell people that I have 5 children, and I love to see the unbelieving reactions, double takes, and pitying respect as every one of them responds the same way. " you sure are busy" they all say. The only thing I love more, is that I get to tell them that I have an awesome wife who is really the busy one and that she takes on all these tasks with such grace that it would blow their minds.
This week in particular I noticed your hard work. There were several nights that you had a hard time sleeping. You were up before 4 am and the tossing and turning sadly became the most relaxing time of the day. You spent the days helping kids with homework, doing the business side of the practice, and making sure everyone had warm meals, I know that some days feel like chaos, but I want you to know how much better you make the days. I hope you know that your hard work does not go unnoticed. I appreciate every activity that you undertake to help life run smoothly; I recognize every job you perform when you would much rather collapse in an exhausted heap on the couch, and I stand in awe of every day that you accomplish more than I ever thought possible. I love you so much.
Brandon
As I sit down to write this, my mind is flooded with the 1.6 million things that we have going on this week. I then reflect on the equally overwhelming number of activities that we have overcome this past week and I come to the horrifying conclusion that life is not slowing down. I feel like we have major events going on every weekend and the closest thing we get to a break is the car ride from one place to another. This week, at one point, I had the thought that my 100 mile race was just a feeble attempt to get me in shape to survive life. Now, I do not write all of this to give you a coronary event as the frightening responsibilities of loom in the future. I write this because it demonstrates the quality of yours that I noticed this week that bring love peace and happiness to our awesome family. YOU ARE A HARD WORKER!!
Since day one of being married you have embraced the workload that has come to be a mundane part of our life. You went to school, worked at a call center, managed our bills and home, all the while being pregnant. I remember at the time foolishly thinking that life would be easier when it slowed down. Since then, you have supported me through med school, residency, owning and running a business and having 5 kids. Daily I tell people that I have 5 children, and I love to see the unbelieving reactions, double takes, and pitying respect as every one of them responds the same way. " you sure are busy" they all say. The only thing I love more, is that I get to tell them that I have an awesome wife who is really the busy one and that she takes on all these tasks with such grace that it would blow their minds.
This week in particular I noticed your hard work. There were several nights that you had a hard time sleeping. You were up before 4 am and the tossing and turning sadly became the most relaxing time of the day. You spent the days helping kids with homework, doing the business side of the practice, and making sure everyone had warm meals, I know that some days feel like chaos, but I want you to know how much better you make the days. I hope you know that your hard work does not go unnoticed. I appreciate every activity that you undertake to help life run smoothly; I recognize every job you perform when you would much rather collapse in an exhausted heap on the couch, and I stand in awe of every day that you accomplish more than I ever thought possible. I love you so much.
Brandon
Monday, February 23, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week has been a whirlwind. We have had two all night drives, half the week in a hotel with a baby, all day conference meetings and it felt like we had no time to spare. I did pay attention this week and I saw one thing that you bring to our family that sets a tone of love peace and happiness. That is your passion.
You have such a wonderful passion and excitement about life and it allows you to take joy in everything that surrounds you. This week I left you in a strange city with a baby for the majority of the day. You embraced your passion for life, adventure and excitement and made something of the day. I used to think that you were lucky because you always met these interesting people, and I now chalk it up to the fact that you are amazing and everyone you meet feels fortunate to have you in their lives. I remember when we were first married and went on a trip to Vegas, you somehow met a nice couple that ended up buying you breakfast. You have met doctors that have tried to help us find jobs, business men that have given reassuring words, and you have even met single elderly women that want to adopt you. Even this week you met the wife of a congressman. What is even more amazing, is that you develop friendships with all of these people. you are someone who makes others feel comfortable and instantly want to be your friend. I know that you think this is nothing special, or maybe just a series of coincidences, but let me tell you, it is nothing shy of a resounding statement of the type of person you are. I have tried to meet these same types of people and the most I can get is a forced 45 minute conversation which is nothing compared to your lifelong friendships.
Now why do I talk about this as a way to bring love peace and happiness to our family? You have these experiences and friendships because of your passion. Others feel your excitement for everyday life and want to be involved. This same passion, you carry with you in all things.
This week you were so excited to take a picture of a cactus. Yes, even as I write it, I'm have a hard time staying awake, but you somehow take this incredibly mundane scene, and will get 1/3rd of the online world to become jealous of your gorgeous drive through the most breathtaking parts of the country.
Now think about all that passion for life that you have. We get to live with that everyday. That passion is felt by each of us as we go about our lives. We get to feel that passion for each of us individually, for the city we live in, our relationship with you, the gospel and every experience we have every day. Your passion is truly contagious in the best way possible. Thank you for helping our family to have a wonderful perspective on life. I love you so much,
love always,
Brandon
This week has been a whirlwind. We have had two all night drives, half the week in a hotel with a baby, all day conference meetings and it felt like we had no time to spare. I did pay attention this week and I saw one thing that you bring to our family that sets a tone of love peace and happiness. That is your passion.
You have such a wonderful passion and excitement about life and it allows you to take joy in everything that surrounds you. This week I left you in a strange city with a baby for the majority of the day. You embraced your passion for life, adventure and excitement and made something of the day. I used to think that you were lucky because you always met these interesting people, and I now chalk it up to the fact that you are amazing and everyone you meet feels fortunate to have you in their lives. I remember when we were first married and went on a trip to Vegas, you somehow met a nice couple that ended up buying you breakfast. You have met doctors that have tried to help us find jobs, business men that have given reassuring words, and you have even met single elderly women that want to adopt you. Even this week you met the wife of a congressman. What is even more amazing, is that you develop friendships with all of these people. you are someone who makes others feel comfortable and instantly want to be your friend. I know that you think this is nothing special, or maybe just a series of coincidences, but let me tell you, it is nothing shy of a resounding statement of the type of person you are. I have tried to meet these same types of people and the most I can get is a forced 45 minute conversation which is nothing compared to your lifelong friendships.
Now why do I talk about this as a way to bring love peace and happiness to our family? You have these experiences and friendships because of your passion. Others feel your excitement for everyday life and want to be involved. This same passion, you carry with you in all things.
This week you were so excited to take a picture of a cactus. Yes, even as I write it, I'm have a hard time staying awake, but you somehow take this incredibly mundane scene, and will get 1/3rd of the online world to become jealous of your gorgeous drive through the most breathtaking parts of the country.
Now think about all that passion for life that you have. We get to live with that everyday. That passion is felt by each of us as we go about our lives. We get to feel that passion for each of us individually, for the city we live in, our relationship with you, the gospel and every experience we have every day. Your passion is truly contagious in the best way possible. Thank you for helping our family to have a wonderful perspective on life. I love you so much,
love always,
Brandon
Monday, February 16, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I have seen so many loving acts from you. I know that it may sound redundant to say that you bring love peace and happiness to our lives by being loving, but that is exactly what you did this week. I also feel that I can justify it because it was Valentines day this week, and I guess if there is one time when one can overuse the word "love" without sounding too cheesy, this is it.
You have amazing creativity and use that to show love. I feel so guilty, like you got the short end of the stick in the relationship, because I feel like I have about 4 ideas of how to show love, and I run through those so fast that I am left scratching my head. Some how you have a never ending supply of creativity and it keeps things so much fun.
This week you made boxes for the kids valentines. But they were not just boxes, they were the Lexus of boxes. I really think you could turn this into a business if you wanted to. Kaden's vending machine box looked so real that I think many of his friends were disappointed when then put a card in and didn't get a piece of candy out. Spencer's laptop box was so amazing that I'm pretty sure Dell is going to steal the idea for some marketing campaign. I'm sure several parents thought we were crazy for sending a real laptop with our 7 year old. The boys were thrilled with the attention they received from having such awesome boxes.
But you didn't stop there. You went out of your way to find a little gift for each of us on Valentine's Day and looked so forward to surprising us. It was such a sweet gesture and you were so excited that we all had to have a great day. The gifts were so thoughtful. Kaden and Spencer are both convinced that they can now run faster and Carter has gone out of his way to shoe off his angry bird underwear (not sure that gift got the desired results). I was thrilled with my gift too (I know you don't believe that). I know we have a running joke about how often I use cologne but this time I'm committed to using it regularly, mainly so I can see if you use another hilarious pun if you get me a knew bottle.
I love you so much. You do so much to make the most out of every day that we have together and I appreciate it so much. I hope you know how much those extra efforts mean to me.
I love you,
Brandon
This week I have seen so many loving acts from you. I know that it may sound redundant to say that you bring love peace and happiness to our lives by being loving, but that is exactly what you did this week. I also feel that I can justify it because it was Valentines day this week, and I guess if there is one time when one can overuse the word "love" without sounding too cheesy, this is it.
You have amazing creativity and use that to show love. I feel so guilty, like you got the short end of the stick in the relationship, because I feel like I have about 4 ideas of how to show love, and I run through those so fast that I am left scratching my head. Some how you have a never ending supply of creativity and it keeps things so much fun.
This week you made boxes for the kids valentines. But they were not just boxes, they were the Lexus of boxes. I really think you could turn this into a business if you wanted to. Kaden's vending machine box looked so real that I think many of his friends were disappointed when then put a card in and didn't get a piece of candy out. Spencer's laptop box was so amazing that I'm pretty sure Dell is going to steal the idea for some marketing campaign. I'm sure several parents thought we were crazy for sending a real laptop with our 7 year old. The boys were thrilled with the attention they received from having such awesome boxes.
But you didn't stop there. You went out of your way to find a little gift for each of us on Valentine's Day and looked so forward to surprising us. It was such a sweet gesture and you were so excited that we all had to have a great day. The gifts were so thoughtful. Kaden and Spencer are both convinced that they can now run faster and Carter has gone out of his way to shoe off his angry bird underwear (not sure that gift got the desired results). I was thrilled with my gift too (I know you don't believe that). I know we have a running joke about how often I use cologne but this time I'm committed to using it regularly, mainly so I can see if you use another hilarious pun if you get me a knew bottle.
I love you so much. You do so much to make the most out of every day that we have together and I appreciate it so much. I hope you know how much those extra efforts mean to me.
I love you,
Brandon
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Dear Rachel,
One goal I have with this blog is to not become too repetitive. I don't want it to sound like I am running out of ideas so I repeat the same things. I know that I have touched on this before,but I was so impressed this week and really felt so much love that I feel that I have no choice but to focus this week on your being supportive.
You have a knack for helping others get excited about things. sometimes you try to use this power for evil. Like when you try to get others involved with home improvement projects, or marathon shopping trips. But, more often than not, you use this skill to bring love peace and happiness. Not only do you get others to enjoy participating in wholesome activities, but you also get others involved in supporting your friends and family in their hobbies.
This week you really supported me when I needed it the most and I can honestly say that I felt love peace and happiness. Last week I decided to run a hundred mile ultra marathon. I was excited, anxious and really looking forward to it. Now, if left up to me, I probably would have said maybe one passing comment on facebook about it and that's it. But you , as I have said,have a talent for getting others excited for me. My facebook saw more activity that it has seen in its entire existence. I had people I didn't even know wishing me the best. But it didn't stop there. you also made sure that there were pictures posted and dedicated a blog post to me. I felt like the center of attention in a way that didn't put me on the spot or make me feel awkward. I truly felt that I had the support of a loving community helping me reach my goal.
I fully recognize that you put forth a ton of effort to be able to make this event possible for me and I want you to know that I felt your support every step of the way. your acceptance, involvement, and promoting of my hobbies has absolutely brought love peace and happiness to me and I love you so much for it. Thank you again.
I love you so much,
Brandon
One goal I have with this blog is to not become too repetitive. I don't want it to sound like I am running out of ideas so I repeat the same things. I know that I have touched on this before,but I was so impressed this week and really felt so much love that I feel that I have no choice but to focus this week on your being supportive.
You have a knack for helping others get excited about things. sometimes you try to use this power for evil. Like when you try to get others involved with home improvement projects, or marathon shopping trips. But, more often than not, you use this skill to bring love peace and happiness. Not only do you get others to enjoy participating in wholesome activities, but you also get others involved in supporting your friends and family in their hobbies.
This week you really supported me when I needed it the most and I can honestly say that I felt love peace and happiness. Last week I decided to run a hundred mile ultra marathon. I was excited, anxious and really looking forward to it. Now, if left up to me, I probably would have said maybe one passing comment on facebook about it and that's it. But you , as I have said,have a talent for getting others excited for me. My facebook saw more activity that it has seen in its entire existence. I had people I didn't even know wishing me the best. But it didn't stop there. you also made sure that there were pictures posted and dedicated a blog post to me. I felt like the center of attention in a way that didn't put me on the spot or make me feel awkward. I truly felt that I had the support of a loving community helping me reach my goal.
I fully recognize that you put forth a ton of effort to be able to make this event possible for me and I want you to know that I felt your support every step of the way. your acceptance, involvement, and promoting of my hobbies has absolutely brought love peace and happiness to me and I love you so much for it. Thank you again.
I love you so much,
Brandon
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week I noticed several things that you do that bring love, peace and happiness to our home and I would like to talk about two of them.
First, you look for ways to helps others have a good time. This week we had a snow day. My initial reaction is that a snow day is actually an invitation to see if humans can indeed hibernate, even if it is only 24 hours. You have a somewhat different approach. Even though you had busy work that could have kept you occupied all day, you went out of your way to create a memory for the kids. You found friends that could come play and made an event out of it. They had snow adventures, developed friendships and had a cherished day. You are always so good taking a mundane event and turning it into a grandiose celebration that is talked about for years to come. You then somehow take pictures and record the event in a way that perseveres the exact feel of the experience. They love looking at the photos from the impromptu holiday and re-living the glorious day.
Another thing that you do to bring love peace and happiness is you make ordinary events fun. The Boys have now loved going to bed because they get to blow kisses to you and "knock you out the door." This simple ritual has become a signal to them that it is time to settle down and puts an end to the night. But it does that in such a way that leaves them content and feeling like they have gotten to do one last fun thing before they settle in for the night. Such a simple idea has become a tradition that lets them know that you care about them enough to leave a smile on their faces as they end each day. On days when you are gone, and I put the kids to bed, we don't have close to the same consistency of peaceful bedtimes. Just you being present brings a calm ambiance to our home.
Your everyday actions are filled with extra mile efforts that make each of feel like a prized and vital part of the family. You accentuate our good qualities to make us each know we are valued. You find ways to turn average events into highlights and sweet memories. Your everyday actions truly fill our wonderful family with love, peace and happiness.
This week I noticed several things that you do that bring love, peace and happiness to our home and I would like to talk about two of them.
First, you look for ways to helps others have a good time. This week we had a snow day. My initial reaction is that a snow day is actually an invitation to see if humans can indeed hibernate, even if it is only 24 hours. You have a somewhat different approach. Even though you had busy work that could have kept you occupied all day, you went out of your way to create a memory for the kids. You found friends that could come play and made an event out of it. They had snow adventures, developed friendships and had a cherished day. You are always so good taking a mundane event and turning it into a grandiose celebration that is talked about for years to come. You then somehow take pictures and record the event in a way that perseveres the exact feel of the experience. They love looking at the photos from the impromptu holiday and re-living the glorious day.
Another thing that you do to bring love peace and happiness is you make ordinary events fun. The Boys have now loved going to bed because they get to blow kisses to you and "knock you out the door." This simple ritual has become a signal to them that it is time to settle down and puts an end to the night. But it does that in such a way that leaves them content and feeling like they have gotten to do one last fun thing before they settle in for the night. Such a simple idea has become a tradition that lets them know that you care about them enough to leave a smile on their faces as they end each day. On days when you are gone, and I put the kids to bed, we don't have close to the same consistency of peaceful bedtimes. Just you being present brings a calm ambiance to our home.
Your everyday actions are filled with extra mile efforts that make each of feel like a prized and vital part of the family. You accentuate our good qualities to make us each know we are valued. You find ways to turn average events into highlights and sweet memories. Your everyday actions truly fill our wonderful family with love, peace and happiness.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week was a little difficult to come up with. Not because I couldn't think of anything, but because Spencer was helping me, and we had a hard time comprehending the concept. I asked him what you did to bring love peace and happiness to our home and he responded with answers like " she makes food?" or "Buys me clothes?" I tried another approach and asked what he would say/miss if he never saw you again. After several hours of deep contemplation he responded "I would Skype with her every day". (if you are confused by his answer, you are not alone).
Finally he had an experience that helped him realize many of the good things you do. You are wonderful at helping others with the things that are important to them. Last week Spencer lost his CTR ring. He looked for it himself for a while with no success. He asked me for help and I halfheartedly scanned the room with equal results. I figured it had gone to the same mystical land as missing socks, all our pens, and the occasional toothbrush and that it would eventually show up on its own, probably in a bizarre location like my shoe or someones sandwich at lunchtime. You took the time to get on hands and knees, pull all the cushions off the couch, and within minutes had accomplished that which he and I together could not do in an afternoon. You really made him feel that his desires were a priority.
You are constantly doing things to show that others you care about what is going on in their life. whether that be putting together a costume for a school play, making customized tee shirts, or coming up with incredible ideas for school craft projects. Our whole family knows that you care about their interests. But you don't leave it at being involved in our interests, you go the extra mile (or sometimes 3 or 4) to help us continue to be excited.
Your excitement is contagious. Whenever you embrace something, it becomes an infectious obsession with all those that surround you. You take that excitement and make the whole family excited about it and you always take the interests of others. I don't think you know how much we appreciate you getting others to rally behind us on our endeavors. I love the way you can get the whole world excited about any given event. It truly is a gift and we are so lucky that you use it to bring love, peace and happiness to us.
I love you.
This week was a little difficult to come up with. Not because I couldn't think of anything, but because Spencer was helping me, and we had a hard time comprehending the concept. I asked him what you did to bring love peace and happiness to our home and he responded with answers like " she makes food?" or "Buys me clothes?" I tried another approach and asked what he would say/miss if he never saw you again. After several hours of deep contemplation he responded "I would Skype with her every day". (if you are confused by his answer, you are not alone).
Finally he had an experience that helped him realize many of the good things you do. You are wonderful at helping others with the things that are important to them. Last week Spencer lost his CTR ring. He looked for it himself for a while with no success. He asked me for help and I halfheartedly scanned the room with equal results. I figured it had gone to the same mystical land as missing socks, all our pens, and the occasional toothbrush and that it would eventually show up on its own, probably in a bizarre location like my shoe or someones sandwich at lunchtime. You took the time to get on hands and knees, pull all the cushions off the couch, and within minutes had accomplished that which he and I together could not do in an afternoon. You really made him feel that his desires were a priority.
You are constantly doing things to show that others you care about what is going on in their life. whether that be putting together a costume for a school play, making customized tee shirts, or coming up with incredible ideas for school craft projects. Our whole family knows that you care about their interests. But you don't leave it at being involved in our interests, you go the extra mile (or sometimes 3 or 4) to help us continue to be excited.
Your excitement is contagious. Whenever you embrace something, it becomes an infectious obsession with all those that surround you. You take that excitement and make the whole family excited about it and you always take the interests of others. I don't think you know how much we appreciate you getting others to rally behind us on our endeavors. I love the way you can get the whole world excited about any given event. It truly is a gift and we are so lucky that you use it to bring love, peace and happiness to us.
I love you.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Dear Rachel,
This week's post is sponsored by Kaden. He says that one thing you do to bring love, peace, and happiness to our home is you are a thoughtful giver. For Christmas, you gave him a subscription to "Boy's Life". He has not even gotten a magazine yet, and he told me that it was his favorite gift. He is looking forward to having something that comes just for him in the mail, and gives him a way to become more involved in scouting. You are so good at looking outside the box to come up with gifts that show how well you know us, and how much you care. Every gift giving event has been preceded by hours of thought, intense research, and unparalleled bargain hunting.
He also said you are good at doing the "little things" to show us love. Last week, you spent the day making each person in the home a rice bag. They had a great time playing out in the snow, and when everyone came it, there was a brand new, fresh-smelling, rice bag with customized fabric for each of us. The kids spent the rest of the day snuggling up to their rice bags to thaw out, and we cant even think of getting into bed each night without the toasty gift to warm our extremities. You always put so much effort into projects like this, Whenever you notice a little niche that could be filled, you put thought and effort into making sure it is filled.
We have become so spoiled that we sometimes take these efforts for granted, but we appreciate it so much. Going the extra mile shows us that you think about us all the time, and gives us little surprises that has brought so much joy to our home. Thank you again for all you do. I hope you are starting to see how much love peace and happiness you bring to us. We love you.
This week's post is sponsored by Kaden. He says that one thing you do to bring love, peace, and happiness to our home is you are a thoughtful giver. For Christmas, you gave him a subscription to "Boy's Life". He has not even gotten a magazine yet, and he told me that it was his favorite gift. He is looking forward to having something that comes just for him in the mail, and gives him a way to become more involved in scouting. You are so good at looking outside the box to come up with gifts that show how well you know us, and how much you care. Every gift giving event has been preceded by hours of thought, intense research, and unparalleled bargain hunting.
He also said you are good at doing the "little things" to show us love. Last week, you spent the day making each person in the home a rice bag. They had a great time playing out in the snow, and when everyone came it, there was a brand new, fresh-smelling, rice bag with customized fabric for each of us. The kids spent the rest of the day snuggling up to their rice bags to thaw out, and we cant even think of getting into bed each night without the toasty gift to warm our extremities. You always put so much effort into projects like this, Whenever you notice a little niche that could be filled, you put thought and effort into making sure it is filled.
We have become so spoiled that we sometimes take these efforts for granted, but we appreciate it so much. Going the extra mile shows us that you think about us all the time, and gives us little surprises that has brought so much joy to our home. Thank you again for all you do. I hope you are starting to see how much love peace and happiness you bring to us. We love you.
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