Birthdays!

I feel really spoiled during this time of year-first we have Christmas, then Valentine's Day, one week later is my birthday, two weeks after that is Chris' birthday, and two weeks after that Easter! But we have had lots of fun lately with all these reasons to celebrate! I had a great Birthday. I was spoiled by my husband, friends, and family. We went to dinner and a movie on my birthday. I was pretty excited! Because of Chris' hearing, we hadn't been to a movie together since our first date (besides the drive in)! And I really like going to the movies. :) 

It's kind of a dark picture, but that's ok. A sweet old man saw us trying (and failing) to take a picture of ourselves, and offered to take one for us.

This year Chris turned 30 (I know, he's so old)!! Just kidding. Anyway, I wanted to do something fun for him, so I asked our close family (siblings, parents, nieces and nephews) and a couple of Chris' close friends to write something nice about Chris. A memory, why they like Chris, etc. I had 30 messages that I attached to 30 balloons. People said some pretty amazing stuff about him, which was just another testament to me that I married such a great guy!

I wanted to share a few of them:
I copied and pasted so that's why things look a little weird. Maybe someday I will fix it, but for now it's ok.

Chris' sister Katie: "When we were kids and living in Spokane, I was scared to sleep alone so I always wanted Chris to sleep with me. He usually would because he is just that kind of brother. One night, he was complaining and griping about it and he told me I was old enough to sleep alone. So I went to bed very sad and about 10 minutes later, Chris comes in with his pillow and told me he was sorry. He always took care of me! Love you Chris! Happy Birthday!"

Chris' sister Courtney: "When I was in elementary school and he was in high school, my mom was busy enough in the morning getting everyone ready so he used to wake me up every morning and carry me into the living room, get me breakfast and turn on Arthur for me. Another memory is when he baptized me! He is an awesome brother! Happy birthday Chris! I love you!"

Chris' nephew Tyson: "He played fall in the hole with me. That was so funny!" -Side note: "Fall in the hole" is a game my brothers used to play with me when I was little. I taught it to Chris, who did it with his nephews. They thought it was hilarious.

Chris' dad:  "Growing up, Chris took on the role of "peacemaker". When there was dissension, he would go to the parties involved and do what he could to bring about a peaceful resolution. From an early age, he has looked for opportunities to be helpful, and has grown up to be a responsible, capable young man. He is wise beyond his years.... How proud I am that he is my son....."

Chris' Mom: "When Chris was 12 he decided he didn't like living in such a big family. He moved into a tent in the backyard for the summer. He was still responsible for doing his chores and he had to eat dinner with the family and go to church, but otherwise he was free to stay in the tent. The tent stayed up all summer, but he really didn't use it that much. Solitary life was a little much for him after all, but the tent was there just in case he wanted it."

My niece Halli: "oh oh I have to make him a present card and I love to talk to him on Jill's phone with a picture!" (When I was home visiting my mom a week before his birthday, we Face-timed. Chris told me before I left that he wanted to talk to Halli. This was Halli's first experience video chatting, and apparently it made a big impression on her!"

Chris' stepmom Linda: "HAPPY HAPPY BIrthday!!!! Chris...the first time I met you was the day you got off your mission. I am so glad dad and I were able to come to Holland. Your dad use to tell me how you were such a special spirit before I met you...I so agree. Thank you for living with us and all that you did for us. I am proud of you and the decisions you have made in your life. I am thankful for the great example that you are for your brothers and sisters. I love and miss you. HAPPY 30TH!!!"

My mom: "I remember when you ran out in the snow in your bare feet to take out the garbage! Pretty cool! Thanks Chris for taking such good care of my daughter! Thank you for loving her and treating her like queen. I also appreciate how good he is with the kids. He will be a good father!"

My sister Tysi:  "I remember when Chris got into the freezing cold water at Redfish just to show Kade how to kneeboard! I also remember getting a good laugh at his story about the automatic bathroom on his mission that got him all wet! Chris is always so fun with the kids! He is also fun to tease. He takes it well! I love how sweet he is to Jill and how he spoils her!"

My sister-in-law Amy: "Chris reminds me of Shawn Spencer! I guess that makes Jill Gus!" (Psych fans will appreciate that one)!

There are many more that I could post, but you get the picture. :) Here he is reading some of the messages...Chris said it was one of the best presents he's ever gotten, so I think it was a success!
                                    

I made him this amazing chocolate cake that is his favorite!

We ended the night by going to a Spokane Chiefs hockey game with some friends from our ward. I won 4 tickets for the game back at Christmas time. It was really fun and we even got to see a fight!

I sure do love him!