...I Realized How Grateful I Am (Part Two)...

So because I did a post about the girls, I figure I better be fair and do one about the boys. Really though- these men have truly made me the person I am today. I grew up with (almost) all of them and it's been fun, crazy, strange and overall amazing.

My dad is incredible. He's probably better than your dad- I'm just sayin'. He's patient, kind, soft-spoken, incredibly intelligent and a huge goof. Some of my most precious and meaningful discussions have been with my dad. He's helped me so much to learn and grow. We didn't always get along when I was an angsty adolescent but I can honestly say that my dad is one of my best friends. He supports me in my decisions and gives guidance when necessary. He trusts me and respects me and loves me. I love my dad so much and am eternally grateful to be his daughter.

My oldest brother Dan is awesome. He's smart, funny, sarcastic and just fun to be around. While he can be a bit intimidating, he's just a big softy at heart. And I love him for it.

My next brother, Tom, is a really funny guy. He's witty, kind and just a good person. I know if I ever need anything I can go to Tom- even when his wife Jenn and I are craving Sonic at 10pm. Yep- he's that good of a guy :)

My nephew Owen is pretty amazing. He's a true boy- making messes, playing in mud and often covered in bruises. I love spending time with him and watching him grow up. I also love that he calls me "Susan"- awesome.



Jon is my third brother. I hated him growing up. But you have to understand- he's the closest in age to me and made it his life goal to make me miserable. Such is life as the only girl. Jon and I are actually good friends now and I visit him and his family often (not because I have favorites- just because they live the closest to me). Jon is a goofy, ridiculous and super laid-back person. He's one of those people who don't seem to have to work as hard as the rest of us- things just work out for him. Which makes me still hate him just a little..... but he is very smart and hard-working. We have good times.

Ok- truth: I really go and visit Jon because he has two super cute little boys. Graham is the oldest and he's hilarious. And insane. Mainly just insane actually. He's full of energy and makes me laugh all the time. I love playing with him. He's my little buddy and I'm his "Sue-sue".




Colin is Jon's younger son and the newest addition to our family. He's still a teensy baby but he's so fun to watch. He really is a sweet little guy and is going to have to learn to hold his own pretty soon with Graham as an older brother.

And last, but never least, is Sam. Sam is my youngest brother and he's a pretty awesome kid. We're eight years apart so I haven't been around to see him grow up these last few years which makes me a little sad. Sam's a really cool kid- he's crazy smart, really witty and an all-around good guy. I kind of miss my little farty sometimes (the nickname was given out of endearment... I promise!) and I'm excited to see how he continues to grow and change.

So those are my boys. I love my dad as well as my brothers. I've loved watching my brothers raise their sons (and daughters) and be such wonderful husbands and fathers. Let's just say that my future husband is going to have a lot to live up to. And I'm grateful for it.