Happy Birthday Michael

Seasons come and seasons go and birthdays are a measure of longevity. But more importantly, it's a time for remembering, enjoying, family, and fun. It was a cold icy day in Ames, Iowa when little Mike was born. Number six of seven children, he was as special as all the rest. Being the second boy meant he would have to endure sisters galore and didn't know he would yet have another little sister. Raising a family is always a challenge, but more often it is a joy, especially when you take time to stop and smell the dandelions. It's easy to smell the roses, but they aren't part of our daily life. The dandelions are more of a nuisance and we try to get rid of them in our yard, but when we stop to smell them we realize they too are part of God's creation. I like the dandelion analogy because it reminds us that little nuisances and challenges are what can bring great joy in our lives. In the same sense, our children are great blessings - each and every one of them - but they can be like dandelions and if we don't stop to smell them (read that as stopping to celebrate them) then we miss too much in their lives and our lives. Michael was one of our dandelions, and what a wonderful one he was and is, of course now I'd probably fine a different plant for him, but he remains a joy in our lives and those of his extended family. Moreover he has extended that family to include a beautiful bride (under 10 years of marriage you remain a bride) who has blessed all of our lives. I honor Michael on this birthday for who he is, who he has become, for his challenges which will make him stronger, and for his love of life, his eternal partner, and his family. Oh yes, and for his quirky sense of humor. Happy Birthday Son!