Happy Birthday Sweetie!

Yes, I've succombed to the dark-side and "hacked" my way into my wife's blog (OK, it really only took signing in... but to us illiterate bloggers it appeared to take the same amount of time and technical expertise as constructing the space station). However, even without that disclosure, it wouldn't take a literary genius to quickly come to the conclusion that Alexis' "ghost writer" needs some coaching from the master herself.

Alexis is on literary leave right now (ie. vacation) and I've been self appointed on her Birthday!!!(July 9th) as her Numero Uno Fan to celebrate the writer and person behind these words and stories, chronicles and inspirational thoughts. Too often we only see and hear the author's perspective from their eyes looking out, but don't have the opportunity to step back and from the outside reflect on the author. I can't pass up the opportunity to tell her and the world of "Blogonia" how much I (and we as family/children, and friends) love and admire her.

All who know her realize that not only is she a gifted writer and communicator, but also a compassionate and tender mother and wife, a dear friend with a listening ear, and a motivator and Superwoman (I have personally witnessed her stopping speeding tricycles, leaping large buildings - aka laundry piles in a single bound, and spotting with her laser vision my hidden chocolate stash through cabinet doors). It isn't infrequent that she is able to juggle 6 or more active children, running between piano, soccer, school, errands, meals, church, while on the phone, balancing on one foot, being understanding of a husband who is coming home late due to meetings, and maintaining a great sense of humor, purpose, and perspective. Whewww.

So you may ask, when does she find time to blog, jog, or chase the dog. I don't know, and that my friends is the mystery; how does she turn a 24 hour day into 30 hours of accomplishments, and make each of us feel like we have her full attention and interest while time is standing still?? It is truly one of her many gifts.

I've always loved the way she smiles and laughs. She has a natural beauty and is absolutely gorgeous when she is dressing up on Sunday's or special occassions as well as just relaxing at home. She finds joy in the simple things of life; flowers, moments with our children and talking to a friend, going for walks, practicing a piano piece after the kids are in bed, and a fresh green salad. She is a tenacious worker, and unstopable when she wants to accomplish something, an outstanding chef, a master budgeter, and a fabulous tennis player. Most of all, she loves the Lord, shares her testimony and experiences freely and often and desires to do what's right in every situation.

I find that I'm in love with this incredible woman more each day than the day before and realize how lucky I am in our marriage. Thank you to so many of our friends and family for your love and support of Alexis! I know she and I value your friendship greatly.

I love you Alexis! Happy Birthday!