It is birthday time of year in my family. Out of 5 family members, 3 of our birthdays managed to fall within nearly one week. Jonathan on the 20th, Dad on the 21st, and Alicia on the 27th. Pretty amazing. And you can also include Jasper, whose birthday is on the 27th as well. But it always makes for a fun time of year, with lots of birthday meals and cakes. We've had some good birthday celebrations throughout the years. It is weird to be away from home for their birthdays, so in honour of all three of their special days, I thought that I would post some pictures of us, as well as tell some of the things that I love and appreciate about each of them. So here goes:
JONATHAN: Has always been one of my best friends, and someone that I look up to. We've always got along so well. I have so many great memories of us together when we were younger, as well as in recent years. He's always good at making me smile or laugh. I would go to him for just about anything. He is constant, steady, an encourager, and is always willing to lend a listening ear. Such a true, genuine person - and more than I ever could have hoped for in a brother. I'm so proud of the person that he is, and the future that he has ahead of him. I know that God has big plans for him, wherever that may be. I am so looking forward to spending time with him in the summer, and especially being in
DAD: Is the perfect role model. Could I ask for a better example? Through his actions (and his words), he has taught me so much about life, faith, servanthood, love. And he has always given so much to me, and to the entire family. Whether it be coaching my hockey team, staying home from work to take care of me when I was sick, driving me out to
ALICIA: The perfect little sister, and one of my best friends. I have so enjoyed becoming even better friends with Alicia over recent years. Like Jonathan, I would go to her for anything. She is always there to listen, offer encouragement, laugh with, and of course, take lots of pictures with. And her smile - always present on her face! She's so upbeat and positive! You won't find a more caring, genuine heart. Even though she is younger than me, she has taught me so much. She is an example in the way that she loves people, and embraces life. She has big things ahead of her – wherever her path may lead.
And Jasper. Well, I just love him because he’s my dog. And because he likes to sleep on my bed with me.
To Jonathan, Dad and Alicia: Happy Birthday! I wish that I could be there to celebrate. But in just over a month, I will be home. I can’t wait! Love you all!
4 comments:
Beautiful. I just love all you Slywkas too!
i can't believe you are almost done your first year. because that means a year has past since last summer! that's crazy.
Thanks for your tribute to three special family members. You brought tears to my eyes because I think the three of them are so very special also. We missed you in our birthday celebrations but thought of you often and appreciated your cards, gifts and calls. I will make a angel food cake with seven minute frosting for us to all enjoy when you are home.
God has blessed me (and all of us) in so many ways. Won't the summer be fun when all five Slywka's leave on a jet plane for Zambia?! What wonderful memories and bonding time that will be! More great photos for another year. mom xoxo
God has certainly blessed my life so much by loaning you, Jonathan and Alicia to me and mom for the time we have you on this earth. I could not have asked for better kids. Having kids like you guys makes being a dad one of the best occupations in the world. It has always been a true privilege and pleasure to do things with you and for you. I wouldn't have it any other way. It is so great seeing all of you make lives for yourselves. Thank you for the birthday wishes Jill, it brought joy to my soul and tears to my eyes. Love Dad
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