Happy Birthday, Rebekah

Hard to believe that Rebekah is 12 today.  No more primary.  No more little kid.  Just a girl who is well on her way to becoming a young woman AND a teenager.

So, in your honor today, Rebekah, here are the 

12 Things I Love Most About Rebekah!

1. The way you make us laugh.  You have such a funny sense of humor, and great imitational skills.  Our family has never laughed so hard, as when you are imitating us (and others).  Very funny girl!
2. The way you can get along with different age groups.  You and Christine can be sharing sisterly, secretive stuff one minute, and the next minute you and Joseph are best friends playing some game the two of you have made up, and then the next thing we know, you and James are hanging out together like best buds.  You are very versatile in your likes and what amuses you.
3. Spending time together - talking, sewing, organizing stamps, shopping, playing a game, cooking.  You're fun to be around.
4. Listening to you play the piano.  Dad and I are amazed at how your talent and ability to play the piano has taken off this past year.  You are really doing a great job, and I love to listen to you play.
5. How beautiful you are!  I love to see you smile!  I especially love to see your smile when your braids are all done, and you see the finished project in the mirror.  You are a stunningly beautiful girl!
6. Reading scriptures with you at night.  I enjoy spending that quiet time with you.
7. Your dedication to time.  The way you work hard to get school assignments done on time (or early).  Your ability to wake up early in the morning and start working.  The way you use your calendar and make lists to help you manage your time.
8. How clean you keep your room and our house.  Looking at your room is a breath of fresh air!
9. The crazy positions you sleep in.  Seeing you asleep at night always puts a smile on my face before I retire to bed.  (Lucky for you, I won't elaborate).
10. The unsolicited help you give (not to be confused with the unsolicited advice you give).  You are often filling needs in our family without being asked:  cleaning up, helping in the kitchen, giving a backrub, taking care of your brothers, writing a kind note, etc.  You don't know just HOW MUCH Dad and I appreciate the kind of help you give.  Thank you!!!
11. How gracious you are.  You always act so pleased when you open presents (never seem disappointed with what has been given to you).  You are quick to say "thank you" for kindnesses shown to you.  You tend to treasure and appreciate what has been given to you (by taking care of it), but you also treasure memories.  You are polite, and kind.
12. You!  What I love most about Rebekah, is you - everything about you.  How blessed we are to have you as our daughter and sister.  Lea gave us a great gift when she held you close, kissed your face, and sent you - all gift wrapped in love- to our family.  How we love our dear Rebekah!  Life just wouldn't be the same without you!