Happy Birthday Kristen!!

Today is Kristen's big day! Since she is a fan of year end "best of" lists, we thought we would talk about some of the best things about Kristen.

1. Kristen is calm/Switzerland.  She is a neutral party that is always good to talk to for a balanced perspective. She rarely gets upset about things, or says a bad word about anyone. What would that be like?

2. She is driven and focused. When Kristen puts her mind to something she does it!  Sometimes we try to entice her with a yummy dinner or an activity that may be contrary to her health and money goals.  We would cave, but she stands firm. A good example of this is running. She got herself a running coach this year, and started running in January, in the snow mind you, and ended up shaving minutes off her best race times. Look at her go!

3. We've said it before, but Kristen is the resident IT Department. It’s a low-paying job, but she gladly helps us all. These new fangled electronics are just so confusing!

4. She is funny! Don't let those sweet good looks fool you, Kristen can crack us up with a look or her wicked shimmy. I have loved going to church with her again so we can chuckle at things that nobody else thinks is funny. i.e. singing the word bosom in a hymn! If you don't believe me, check out this video.

5. She is a good cook. Kristen plans her meals ahead and is always looking for something new to make. And may I remind you about her prior church calling in which she had to cook dinner for 200 starving singles once a month!

6. She is considerate and compassionate. It makes sense that she heads up the compassionate service committee in her ward.  She is thoughtful and always tries to help others.  I recently had to testify in a court case, and was so scared, I practically had an aneurysm. Kristen coordinated with Julie on a darling care package and dropped it off for me–so nice!

7. She is a savvy business woman! Not only did she buy a new car this year, but the guy she bought it from offered a discount lower than the agreed upon sales price! When does that every happen?! Should I ever get divorced, I'm going to hire her as my attorney!

8. Kristen is constantly striving to go to the temple and to study the gospel as she strengthens her testimony. She is diligent in scripture study and actually reads the church books in her lovely home.

9. Kristen is always up for adventure and is a great travel buddy. This year alone, we have rowed boats, been on several great tours and trips, and oh yeah, there was that time she went to the clink.

10. Kristen LOVES magic! Just ask her! I find this charming and love how excited she gets about magic!

Kristen, you are a gem, and we hope you have a wonderful year! We also want you to know that we think you are great, and are so pleased that we get to be your sisters!