Happy Birthday Devin!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEVIN!!!!

I know this picture is horribly blurry, but I don't have any current pictures of Devin. I don't even know if I have any digital pictures of Devin that are old. Considering Devin checks his email today and his birthday is tomorrow I am writing his birthday post one day early.

Those who know Devin know that he has had a rocky path in this life. Many of you didn't know him when he was a toddler and I just want to say that he was the cutest toddler in our family. I feel pretty safe in saying that because he was an adorable little boy. Cute dimples with soft blond hair (almost white) and a smile to bring joy to anyone.

Before he went to school he made friends with Scott three houses down and those two loved each other. Devin was always a very curious child. My mom was always calling out the door looking for DEVIN! In fact one day she found that he and another neighbor boy had ridden their bikes to a busy road as they were headed to 7-11 or somewhere. Luckily a neighbor lady had called and told her. He wasn't a naughty boy he just went wherever his little mind wanted him to go.

As we moved to Oregon and got established there Devin began school. It seemed that school became a struggle for him. He also struggled to find friends. I know that the two were related but I don't know which one came first. Either way Devin struggled so much that throughout his life he lived for visits back to Utah when he would see his best friend Scott. He really loved Scott and hung onto that young friendship. He also clung to the love from his family.

As Devin got older he was able to gain a few friends in Oregon and even more after he graduated and moved to New Mexico. That change seemed to make the difference in Devin's life. Somehow the sunshine brought Devin to life. It was actually lively to speak with him on the phone. It makes me happy knowing that he is serving a mission in a similar climate.

Through all of Devin's struggles the gospel has always been a breeze for him. He loves his Savior and takes his priesthood responsibilities very serious. He has looked forward to his mission with enthusiasm and excitement. I know that he is a spiritual giant inside that body. When it comes to the gospel he definitely has his sights set straight!

Finally I wish to tell Devin how much I love him. As older siblings we are constantly trying to guide and direct him because we want so much for him to see himself as the wonderful person he is. He's had too many years of loneliness and rejection to believe his great worth. I see it though. I see a handsome man when he loves himself enough to care for himself. There is so much to love and I know that someday there will be a woman who will see that in him, but she will only see that if he believes in himself. I believe in Devin and more importantly I know that my Heavenly Father believes in him. I hope that is what Devin is learning as he serves our Heavenly Father. He truly does love all his children and not one goes unloved by him. I love you Devin. I hope you have a very happy birthday!