HAPPY BIRTHDAY {JOSH}!

Today, I am wishing the most amazing brother a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!    Saturday, we celebrated Josh's birthday at Olive Garden. And as always, it was a great time! Mom & Dad drove into town and ended up spending the night with Josh. Sometimes, spontaneity works out better than well-laid plans! It was great to see everyone and to celebrate a special occasion. My brother has always been a very important part of my life, and I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful memories with him!  I know that no matter what, I can always count on him for support and strength.  We've been through a lot, and the trials and tribulations have only made us stronger and closer together.  I will forever cherish my 'little' brother - who's much taller than me and has been for quite some time now!    I love that no matter what we're doing, he can always make me laugh.  There is NEVER a dull moment with him, and it's truly a blessing.  From even the smallest things, he finds the joy in it all.  And man, the faces that kid makes....  

I will reiterate - NEVER A DULL MOMENT!! 

As younger kids, I took him for granted.  I didn't truly appreciate everything that my life was blessed with as a young child, but boy do I now!  I cherish every chance we get to spend time together, even if it's just to go see a movie or grab some food.  I know that our time is precious, and I'm grateful for all of it. 

We have countless memories, a lot of which we still bring up and talk about today!  From turning his ears blue on the bus ride to our grandma's house from school, to *allegedly* putting him in the dryer at home, to supporting him at sporting events, to countless camping trips and long nights - the $500 comfy pants were just brought up on Saturday!  Haha.  I love our relationship, and I look forward to what our future holds - which hopefully includes spending much more time together! 

The sad truth is that we only live across the street from each other and hardly see each other maybe twice a month.  SO SAD!  This must change soon, and I vow to try my best!  Even if that means harassing him until he FINALLY remembers to give me his work schedule, as it changes weekly.  :) hehe...

Josh,

You have grown up to be such an amazing and inspirational young man. 

You may not see it yourself, but you are a role model to most. 

Your faith is strong, of which I am truly thankful.

Your character is strong and dependable - you are faced with such challenges, of which you always overcome. 

You are loved, and you will never be alone.  I am always here for you, no matter what the circumstances or the time of day. 

I love you and truly do cherish the time we spend together, regardless of what we're doing.

You are an important part of my life.

You are talented.

You are humble.

You are worthy of the greatest gifts.

You deserve the world, and I know you will strive to achieve your dreams.

You bring such joy and laughter to so many people's lives.

And although I may not say it enough - I LOVE YOU! 

My prayer for you is that you continue being yourself and making a difference.  Because even if you don't believe you are, you truly are.  You have such a huge heart and are exactly where God has meant for you to be at this point in your life.  Bigger and better things are to come, all of which you are deserving.  I pray that you continue to find happiness in even the darkest days.  And always know that your family is behind you 100%.  Whether you need to talk, vent, play mindless video games, go out to eat, just get away, or a shoulder to cry on, I'm here for you.  Please don't ever doubt that.