Happy Birthday, Jer!

Can you tell she adores him?

Today Jeremy turned 39-- just one year away from the big 40! I think he gets hotter every year-- I LOVE the salt and pepper look on a guy!

I am so grateful to have this man in my life.

He is kind and fun and thoughtful and forgiving and intelligent and spiritual and talented and amazing.

Except when he is not.
(He deserved that!)

This morning for his birthday, Jeremy had a small breakfast in bed, then got up to make lunches for all the kids. After that, he transformed into Johnny Appleseed so he could surprise Jesi, Xander, Lexi, Elli, and their respective classes. Johnny Apppleseed's birthday is next Tuesday, but Jer couldn't do it then, so he volunteered to do it today instead.

This is how he feels about dressing up as Johnny Appleseed:



Ha, ha. Actually, he is a very good sport. He sings the Johnny Appleseed song with them, reads a story, and hands out caramel apple suckers. This is just one example of why my kids have the best dad in the world. (:




Quotes from men I admire:


“Brethren, noble fatherhood gives us a glimpse of the divine attributes of our Father in Heaven. A father should be many things. He should magnify his priesthood and be an example of righteousness. In companionship with his wife, he should be the source of stability and strength for the whole family. He should be the protector and the provider and the champion of the members of his family. Much of his love for his children should flow from his example of love, concern, and fidelity for their mother. By his uncompromising example he should instill character into his children.”-- James E. Faust


"What more can a husband do to support his wife, the mother of their children? First, show extra appreciation and give more validation for what your wife does every day. Notice things and say thank you—often. Schedule some evenings together, just the two of you.

"Second, have a regular time to talk with your wife about each child's needs and what you can do to help.

"Third, give your wife a 'day away' now and then. Just take over the household and give your wife a break from her daily responsibilities. Taking over for a while will greatly enhance your appreciation of what your wife does. . . .

"Fourth, come home from work and take an active role with your family. Don't put work, friends, or sports ahead of listening to, playing with, and teaching your children."—M. Russell Ballard



I'm so grateful for a husband who is this kind of father and husband. I am so blessed to call him my best friend. And I am so excited to go on an OVERNIGHT birthday date with him tonight (our first overnight in over a year-- thanks, Mom and Dad!)





Happy Birthday, Sweetie! And Happy Birthday, Jenny!!


PS. Honey, this is for posting pictures of me at the hospital. (: