Happy Big 30 Brother.

This photo is copywrited by Erin McFarland Photography.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY BROTHER. I guess you are not a baby anymore. The big 30, do you know how old you make me feel. I can not look at the picture above without tears coming to my eyes because of how proud I am to be your sister.

I was your older, protective, bossy sister who loves you very much. I think you were my real life “doll” to play with, maybe that is why I did not care for the pretend dolls. I would talk for you, act for you, get the toys for you, you were born being waited on hand and foot (sorry sister in law).

I know I was away at college during most of your high school years, I do feel like I missed a lot. But what I did see, I was proud. I saw you grow in your love for Christ, I saw your desire to go and preach His word, I know being a missionary will always be in the back of your mind. And I love to pick your brain in what you learned in seminary.

I saw you walk down the isle with the most beautiful, awesome woman who has the same desires for missions as you do. J and I were very picky when it came to who we would release you to. But when E entered your life, I knew before I even laid eyes on her she was the one for you. They say a Mother senses that kind of stuff, well I know for a fact a sister does to. J and I could not have picked a better person.

I will never forget the phone call of you telling me you are becoming a police officer. I went straight to my knees. I knew this sister could not protect you out there and the thought of you putting your life in danger was more than I could take. But the Lord opened so many doors for you and made it VERY evident to me this was His will, and I knew if it was His will then who am I to stand in the way. (and yes I am crying right now, don’t roll your eyes at me young man =) I can not begin to tell you how proud I am to see you become a well liked, and successful police officer. Yes, the boys and I pray for you every night. I cringe at any news report involving a police officer, but I know you are wrapped heavily in prayer and you are in Gods will. I could not be prouder.

And this year blew me away to see you become a Father. My baby brother a daddy. I see you with your daughter and you remind me of Dad. And you know that is a high compliment. You are going to be a wonderful Father.

I wish I could be there on your big day, and yes my present is late (sorry). But I want you to know how much this sister loves you, is proud of you, and just down right thinks you are the greatest.

I will end now because I am getting my keyboard wet with my tears. Yes I know I am the emotional sister, but you just wait bucko when your daughter grows you too will be emotional.I love you.