From Shalay (daughter)

Mom!     

   I can't believe its your birthday today! :) Happy Birthday! So many wonderful years of life you have had! From your dramatic White Socks, to your piano playing, We thank thee Oh God for a Prophet, you mother have been the best mother any girl could ask for! Remember when you used to curl my hair on Sunday mornings and how I hated it and fought you? Well afterwards I loved when you would sing to me, "Pretty As A Picture, Like the wind she flew, as she ran away she lost her little glass shoe." I love to think about your desire to help my feel beautiful inside and out. You always would jog in the Sundancer as we watched movies and could never just be sitting there, you always had to be doing something. You continuously increase your talents and I can't hear almost any hymn with out hearing your voice sing the Alto part. You always knew what was best for me. Remember when you forced me to go to Ballroom dance classes and I cried when I went because I was so shy?? Now ballroom dance is one of my favorite things in the world. You truly are one of my best friends. remember when I got a comment from my teacher on a math test about doing well and you sat on the bed with me and told me how proud you are of me? Even if you don't remember these things, I do! I have a foundation of the gospel because of your constant desire to serve. You knew everyone of our neighbors by name and you would bake a loaf of bread or you would bring over your new health "remedy" to share with our neighbors, member or not. you always have had such a desire to share the gospel and always brought someone with you to Relief Society activities. I have been told that I look like you, and I hope that one day I can live up to your wonderful, angelic legacy of who you are inside. I know that this mortal body has not allowed you to do some of the things that you have wanted to do in your life, but that doesn't change who you are. That does not change the immense life-changing impact that you have had on my life! I am so grateful and honored that I get to call you mother and I hope and pray that this Birthday is a special one for you! 

Love always, 

Shalay Laree <3 

P.S. I have a graduation picture of Tyler to give next time we see you! 

P.P.S. Glenn sends his love and birthday wishes too! :)