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.