Sunday, February 1, 2009

Happy Birthday Bruce!

This is Bruce and some of his friends on New Year's Eve--2009. Those aren't gang signals. They're making the numbers 2-0-0-9.
The sad thing about getting so far behind like I have is that important days come and go and they don't get recorded or acknowledged. So here is my late birthday tribute to Bruce.

Bruce is smart--4.0 gpa from a very difficult school. He works hard and stays on top of things and I hardly have to worry at all about his schoolwork. After my growing up, I really didn't deserve to have such a conscientious student for my oldest, but I'm grateful.

Bruce is a great basketball player--We enjoy watching him play, his passing, his court presence, his leadership. He is a hard worker and never gives up. He loves a game where everyone scores and does his best with passing and court leadership to make that happen. Coaches love his work ethic.

Bruce is kind and generous--When his friend Mehmet needed a place to stay, Bruce helped make that happen. If a friend needs something, Bruce is willing to help. He's a good person to have on your side.

Bruce is motivated--He is focused and determined to reach his goals. He works hard to do that and doesn't get easily distracted. He knows what he wants and what it takes to get there and then does what he needs to to make it happen.

Bruce is funny--He has a great sense of humor and makes us laugh a lot. He is ridiculous and dry and very witty.

Last but most importantly, Bruce has a testimony--he is never hesitant to say prayers, he is anxious to serve a mission and doesn't hesitate to stand up for what he knows is right. He is willing and ready to fulfill his priesthood assignments. He is a good example to those around him.

We love Bruce. He is such an important part of our family and as happy as I am about the man he is becoming, I hate how fast he's getting there. I can't bear the thought that we are less than two years away from him leaving on his mission. I love having him around. I love visiting with him. I enjoy watching our shows together and I love that he is my son. I love you, Bruce.

Bruce and some ridiculous glasses. I guess these silly glasses sell for a lot of money, so he made his own with tape.