Happy Birthday Hunter!!

(I am warning you upfront that this post is sentimental and a tad mushy...)
 

Wow - it is so hard to believe that our son is turning 17 today!  I can't believe how the time has flown.  I often find myself thinking back at this little boy who was so full of energy and into so many things at one time.  How is it possible that the little boy has turned into such a grown-up, handsome, responsible young man?  I could gush about Hunter all day long.  He has such an awesome spirit about him.

He magnifies his calling, he honors his priesthood and he tries very hard to make right decisions.  He is an example to his brothers and to his cousins. Hunter has always had the greatest sense of humor.  He tries to get us to find the humor in all the situations we encounter.  One of the things I love about Hunter is his tender heart.  When he was a little boy and he saw me cry, he would just start crying too.  This past year, he has risen to any challenge or opportunity to provide service when he has been called on - sometimes to the surprise of those around him. 

Hunter balanced on Grampy's hand

When Hunter was born, he was so amazing.  He never cried like most brand-new newborns.  He just looked between Brian and I.  He made me a mom that day and he made us a family.  In that moment, we realized that we had been given a true gift - one that would and still treasure.  I remember my dad and I talking before Hunter was born.  He told me that I was about to experience a love that I had never known - a love that you don't acquire until you become a parent.  From the moment that Hunter entered this world and I looked at him, I knew what my dad was talking about.   He made his Grammy and Grampy grandparents.  Grampy didn't really warm up to the idea of being a "Grampy" until he took a look at you and he told you that you deserved a Grampy - not a Special Uncle Dave!

Hunter - we love you so much and we are so proud of you.  No matter what you do or who you are, always remember that you are loved and cherished.  We hope you have a very happy birthday!