I am so happy to say that I have known and loved you for all of your twenty five years. (And I'd be lying if I said that just thinking about that fact didn't make me a bit teary-eyed.)
Christine, I could never make any sort of accurate account of the countless hours we've spent together in our lives. I could never put into words how important you have been and always will be to me, as a cousin and especially as a friend.
When we were kids, I always knew how cool it was to live literally right next door to your cousins, but looking back, I never could have guessed how much of a blessing it was to get to spend every day with you and Lindsay.
All of my memories of those first years of our lives have blended into one beautiful conglomeration of coming home from school to play games, share snacks, and entertain each other with whatever we could come up with. I think I am especially fond of memories of the vacations from school, spent everywhere from Chaffee Zoo to Storyland to Kay and Velda's house, and many, many hours swimming at Jack and Kyrma's. And, of course, let's not forget the Halloween costumes!
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| Halloween |
We always had so much fun together, and I loved thinking up ways to spend summer days with you. Whether it was silly videos (that we took very seriously!) or having fun with the "radio," you've always been willing to be creative and do whatever you could to make sure everyone else was having as much fun as you were.
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| Easter together! |
In the almost ten years that we've lived away from each other, I have been thrilled at any chance I've had to see you. When you and Harrison lived in Provo after getting married, though we didn't see each other often, I was always so happy to get to spend time with you. My mom and I loved the chance to help with your baby shower for Jack, and I remember going to see you in the hospital while you were waiting for him to come!
It's been many years since we were next door neighbors, but it is endlessly meaningful to me to know that no matter how long we've been apart, I will feel your love, compassion, and friendship every time I see you. It's been so special to be able to grow up with you, and now to see how your family is growing, too!
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| Las Vegas, 2007 |
Christine, I love you so much. You are such a beautiful example to me and to everyone who knows you, of kindness, thoughtfulness, cheerfulness, and especially courage. I hope you have a truly special 25th birthday. I'll be thinking of you!
Love, Mal
