I'm sure you are deep in suspense as to what I got for Christmas with a title like that. However, I'm gong ot spare you the "show and tell" list of gifts I received because quite frankly I'm sure you don't care and I don't feel the need. I had a great Christmas and got gifts that were pleasant surprises, but the best gift was getting to talk to my brother, Steve. He is currently serving in Des Moines, Iowa and has been gone for 6 months. Everyone has been saying how fast it has gone by, but that couldn't be further from the truth for me! So if you were wondering who that 
flippin' cute little boy is to the right, that was my brother about 14 years ago. About his head shot picture- he randomly wrapped rubber bands around his ears one night and that was the result.
flippin' cute little boy is to the right, that was my brother about 14 years ago. About his head shot picture- he randomly wrapped rubber bands around his ears one night and that was the result. If you have scrolled down through the pictures already, by now you can probably tell that he has a great sense of humor. He is by far one of the funniest guys I know. I'm not just saying that because he is my brother, those that do know him say the same thing. A boring setting can easily become humorous and full of laughter when Steve walks in. He is also very shy so only a few select people are priviledged enough to experience the true Steve, which is unfortunate. I'm hoping that serving and being forced to talk, more people will finally get to know him. (This scout 
picture was taken because my mom never got around to getting one when he got his Eagle, so this is the pose he chose...we had some good laughs)
picture was taken because my mom never got around to getting one when he got his Eagle, so this is the pose he chose...we had some good laughs)The second half of this year has brought all sorts of new changes in my life (too many if you ask me!). This has required a lot of adjusting, and I am still trying to learn how to adjust to many of these changes, which still isn't easy for me. Steve leaving has been one of the harder adjustments. We have had a connection and bond between us since he 
was born that my other siblings don't share, so not having him around leaves me feeling kind of empty and isolated at home sometimes. He isn't here anymore to make my day, jog with, vent to, or help joke about my struggles to make them feel lighter. I serioulsy could have used him a lot these past 6 months, that's for sure.
was born that my other siblings don't share, so not having him around leaves me feeling kind of empty and isolated at home sometimes. He isn't here anymore to make my day, jog with, vent to, or help joke about my struggles to make them feel lighter. I serioulsy could have used him a lot these past 6 months, that's for sure. I know this is starting to sound like some kind of 
Eulogy for him, but I think people (and my posterity) should know 
how amazing I think he is. He is so patient and kind to everyone. There isn't a mean bone in his body (unless shooting paint balls or throwing snowballs at deer is considered mean). He is so smart and has a memory like you couldn't believe, yet he is so so
humble. He is a great friend to all he associates with and includes everyone. Steve has always chosen to do the right thing under any circumstance. If only there were more guys out there like him, the world would definitely be a better place! He is by far the best example to me, more than I could ever be for him. I am so grateful to have him in my family, and would give my own life for his because I know 
he could do far more better things for this world than I could ever dream to accomplish. I love you Steve!
Eulogy for him, but I think people (and my posterity) should know 
how amazing I think he is. He is so patient and kind to everyone. There isn't a mean bone in his body (unless shooting paint balls or throwing snowballs at deer is considered mean). He is so smart and has a memory like you couldn't believe, yet he is so so
humble. He is a great friend to all he associates with and includes everyone. Steve has always chosen to do the right thing under any circumstance. If only there were more guys out there like him, the world would definitely be a better place! He is by far the best example to me, more than I could ever be for him. I am so grateful to have him in my family, and would give my own life for his because I know 
he could do far more better things for this world than I could ever dream to accomplish. I love you Steve! (The last picture is right before he left, hence my makeup was still in tact...I won't mention what I looked like after :) )
