Thick and thin

Erin ,

I tried my best, but I couldn’t think of anything clever or witty or even funny to write for you – I don’t speak to cats and I haven’t had the funds to take you on spectacular birthday vacations. I will just have to write the sappy happy birthday message.

Happy birthday! It’s a milestone – and although it can be tough sometimes, in the kingdom 30 isn’t very old. You’ve achieved a lot so far, even if sometimes it feels too ordinary.

I’m so thankful to have been able to move somewhere where we knew people. People who could get us hooked into the social pipeline – somewhere where we could be somebody ... seriously though, I am thankful to have moved closed to family where Rebecca and I could meet so many new friends and quickly get involved in a good church. My softball career may have taken a drastically different turn if I had been forced to take a year off back in ’05.

I’ve enjoyed the time I have gotten to spend with over the past several years. Your marriage is a testimony to me and Rebecca – I only hope that in the years to come we can reflect Christ in our marriage the way that you have. You’ve been there for us many times now. Hot summers and cold winters – your house was open. During tough times you were there to support Rebecca and that supported me.

I pray that the next 30 years will be as fruitful as the first. May you have the blessing of a wonderful covenant family that will call you blessed and be refreshed with morning goodness everyday. May you learn to love the Lord more and more, only to realize you have just begun.

Love,
Brandon