HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEBBIE!!!
Not only are you a rock star, but you are also a DANCING QUEEN!! I never knew you could bust a move like you were doing at Uncle Brent's wedding reception--even when you were almost 40. Years. Old. !! So I have now added "a dance by Debbie" to the activity list for each and every party held at my mom and dad's house from now on. (You're officially off the "arm wrestling Billie" hook now.......) Anyway, you are an elegant, generous, fun, creative, lovely, smart, etc. etc. sister-in-law, and our family is very blessed to have you in it! We love you. Happy Birthday!!--Rae Ann
In honor of your big 4-0, we all want you to know just how Fabulous we think you are. In fact, you're pretty much a Rock Star! Love, Your Biggest Fans
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
To my closest first cousin
Hey Debbie,
We've often been a few weeks or months away from each other in big milestones--guess this big birthday is no different. We graduated high school the same year, got married pretty close to each other and we both will have daughters as freshmen at BYU this Fall. We've been to Grandma and Grandpa Boyce's house together, EFY, baby showers and several family reunions. I remember you giving me fashion and hair stylying tips in the basement of Grandma and Grandpa's house, letting me read letters from your 13/14 year-old boyfriend, getting a lecture from your Dad about listening to uplifting music when Chicago's "Stay the Night" was on the radio. I remember flirting with boys as we toured around Salt Lake City together that summer. I remember writing each other after our Nauvoo family reunion, using all my cutest stationary I had gotten for my birthday one year.
Probably the thing I treasure most about knowing you is the example you've set for facing adversity. I talked to Susie after she has come to your house right after the triplets were born. Of course it was all overwhelming and Susie, as your closest sister was probably more concerned than anyone. She told me as she held those babies she looked up and saw the "No Toil or Labor Fear" placard above your mantle and just broke down and sobbed. I've never forgotten that image she described. It has sustained me in my own personal toils and labors. It's been a good motto to recall. I'm glad you've lived it!
I'm glad you are able to enjoy some sweet fruits of so much toil and labor in your life. I'm so happy you have sweet family and friends to surround you. You truly are an inspiration to many.
All my love,
April
We've often been a few weeks or months away from each other in big milestones--guess this big birthday is no different. We graduated high school the same year, got married pretty close to each other and we both will have daughters as freshmen at BYU this Fall. We've been to Grandma and Grandpa Boyce's house together, EFY, baby showers and several family reunions. I remember you giving me fashion and hair stylying tips in the basement of Grandma and Grandpa's house, letting me read letters from your 13/14 year-old boyfriend, getting a lecture from your Dad about listening to uplifting music when Chicago's "Stay the Night" was on the radio. I remember flirting with boys as we toured around Salt Lake City together that summer. I remember writing each other after our Nauvoo family reunion, using all my cutest stationary I had gotten for my birthday one year.
Probably the thing I treasure most about knowing you is the example you've set for facing adversity. I talked to Susie after she has come to your house right after the triplets were born. Of course it was all overwhelming and Susie, as your closest sister was probably more concerned than anyone. She told me as she held those babies she looked up and saw the "No Toil or Labor Fear" placard above your mantle and just broke down and sobbed. I've never forgotten that image she described. It has sustained me in my own personal toils and labors. It's been a good motto to recall. I'm glad you've lived it!
I'm glad you are able to enjoy some sweet fruits of so much toil and labor in your life. I'm so happy you have sweet family and friends to surround you. You truly are an inspiration to many.
All my love,
April
Everyone's Hero
I second everything everyone has said about you; they stole my words; you truly are the greatest off the great. I never thought I could love anyone as much as my own children, but I love you as my own. You are an inspiration to us all. You are the greatest mom, wife, daughter-in-law, and friend I could ever imagine. Thanks for your "specialness"; have a wonderful birthday!!!!!!!!!! Papa Dale
The Perfect Heart
Debbie – You were just a little girl when I first met your family in Stillwater. Your mom and dad are the greatest and we will never forget them. The way you turned out says a lot about them. Knowing how you become reminds me of the poem. Wishing you a “happy birthday” and have a wonderful celebration.
>The Perfect Heart
>-by Anonymous
>
>One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town
>proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley.
>A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was
>perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed
>it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young
>man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart.
>
>Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and
>said, "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine." The crowd
>and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating
>strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been
>removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and
>there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were
>deep gouges where whole pieces were missing. The people stared -- how
>can he say his heart is more beautiful, they thought?
>
>The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and
>laughed. "You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with
>mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears." "Yes,"
>said the old man, "yours is perfect looking but I would never trade
>with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have
>given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them,
>and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the
>empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have
>some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love
>we shared.
>
>Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person
>hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty
>gouges -- giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are
>painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these
>people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I
>have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"
>
>The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He
>walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and
>beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man
>with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his
>heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it
>in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as
>there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not
>perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old
>man's heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by
>side.
Rhoda Hughes
Stillwater, Ok
Happy Birthday Debbie!
I almost forgot to write a post as my life got in the way. I have had a picture saved on my computer and I have sat down to write this many times only to be interrupted (as I just was AGAIN!) by someone needing something! Better late that never. But am I really late? Today is your Birthday, after all.…
As I looked through my albums, I realized I could put several embarrassing pictures of you on here. You were my friend for a long time. In the end, I chose to share only one photo…. from a sleepover at my house. I think we are around 11. Apparently we played at “Makeovers: Early 80’s style.” J I love the headband peeking through your bangs.
Let’s see…you taught me the words to “The Rose.” I can still sing that song to this day and think of you. I remember singing it as we walked back from Orchestra in middle school! That memory is very strong. I can feel the uneven sidewalk beneath my feet and see your case in your hand as we walked along singing, “…Just remember in the winter…far beneath the bitter snows lies the seed that with the sun's love in the spring becomes the rose…” I’m pretty sure I was singing it out of a love sick heart over some boy I had a crush on… ;)
A funny memory…I had my first taste of powdered milk at your house. What a startling and somewhat horrifying experience that was for me! I was a kid who had only had tasted store-bought milk! Ha! It was the morning after a sleepover at your house and we were having cereal. I hope I was gracious about it. I have used that example several times as I sent my children off to a friends house hoping they would mind their manners if given something to eat they didn’t like or weren’t used too.
I knew you as a child and teen. Although that time shaped you, it is clear that isn’t who you are today. I haven’t had the privilege of being your friend for the last 20 years. I haven’t been able to walk with you through your joys and struggles. After reading these posts I see that is has been my loss. I remember you as a fun and sweet childhood friend but what I see is what a special woman you ARE! I just read your daughter’s and mother-in-law’s posts and I was brought to tears! You are an amazing woman! I am so thankful for FB for letting me back into your life. I am doubly thankful for getting to be a small part of wishing you a blessed and happy, Happy, HAPPY 40th Birthday!
Blessings,
Tammy (Dean) McDaniel
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Mother Dearest
Momma-
There's just so much to say that I feel like it would take another 40 years to write it all down- so I decided to write a list of "Thank You's" (and a few other things) that will barely scratch the surface of the amazing things you've accomplished in your 'old age':
- Thank you for having good skin and passing those genes on to me ;)
- Thank you for admitting that you married one of the weirdest people on this earth
- Thank you for going through with it (marrying dad I mean)
- Thank you for not knowing how many states are in the US- it has given people laughs for years
- Thank you for not being one of those super embarrassing moms that sings and dances all over the place or tells embarrassing stories......
- Thank you for moving me to Deer Creek- I have had some of the most fantastic experiences and friendships because of that school.
- Thank you SO MUCH for raising me on country music. I pity the poor people who have never had the pleasure of hearing our dear Randy Travis' voice.
- Thank you for raising me the way you and dad have. I have never had to question if I was loved or not- I have always know that you and dad love me unconditionally, and that has given me the confidence to be the person that I am.
- Thank you for being the constant little annoying nudge in the right direction that I needed to go and not being afraid to tell me "I told you so."
- Thank you for allowing and encouraging my extended family to be a serious part in my life. I have learned to love and have been granted countless memories more than I can mention.
- Thank you for having my three little sisters. I know you have to have grown a few grey (or as recently discovered- white) hairs because of my negativity concerning changing diapers and babysitting, my constant lack of patience with them (and, let's be honest... EVERYTHING), and just the stress of having four children (all girls too!). But truth be told there isn't a thing I wouldn't do for those little girls and I learned that from you. I have learned so much from being raised by you, and then a whole extra lot of lessons by watching you raise the girls. And look what we have :
- Thank you for encouraging me to be EXACTLY who I am- and encouraging me to travel the world. one of my best memories that I will always have is our cruise last Christmas. We got to see some of the most amazing things in the world, and we got to do it together. I couldn't have asked for a better gift.
- Thank you for being the greatest mother, wife, and friend that anyone could ask for. I was more than moved to see the amount of people who have developed love and respect enough to recount the many ways you have reached out to them and touched their lives. You are a constant port in the storm for many people, and the strongest woman I know. I truthfully hope to grow to be a fraction of the woman that you are, and I am so grateful that you are my mother and for the family that we have.
- Alexis Christine
There's just so much to say that I feel like it would take another 40 years to write it all down- so I decided to write a list of "Thank You's" (and a few other things) that will barely scratch the surface of the amazing things you've accomplished in your 'old age':
- Thank you for having good skin and passing those genes on to me ;)
- Thank you for admitting that you married one of the weirdest people on this earth
- Thank you for going through with it (marrying dad I mean)
- Thank you for not knowing how many states are in the US- it has given people laughs for years
- Thank you for not being one of those super embarrassing moms that sings and dances all over the place or tells embarrassing stories......
- Thank you for moving me to Deer Creek- I have had some of the most fantastic experiences and friendships because of that school.
- Thank you SO MUCH for raising me on country music. I pity the poor people who have never had the pleasure of hearing our dear Randy Travis' voice.
- Thank you for raising me the way you and dad have. I have never had to question if I was loved or not- I have always know that you and dad love me unconditionally, and that has given me the confidence to be the person that I am.
- Thank you for being the constant little annoying nudge in the right direction that I needed to go and not being afraid to tell me "I told you so."
- Thank you for allowing and encouraging my extended family to be a serious part in my life. I have learned to love and have been granted countless memories more than I can mention.
- Thank you for having my three little sisters. I know you have to have grown a few grey (or as recently discovered- white) hairs because of my negativity concerning changing diapers and babysitting, my constant lack of patience with them (and, let's be honest... EVERYTHING), and just the stress of having four children (all girls too!). But truth be told there isn't a thing I wouldn't do for those little girls and I learned that from you. I have learned so much from being raised by you, and then a whole extra lot of lessons by watching you raise the girls. And look what we have :
- Thank you for encouraging me to be EXACTLY who I am- and encouraging me to travel the world. one of my best memories that I will always have is our cruise last Christmas. We got to see some of the most amazing things in the world, and we got to do it together. I couldn't have asked for a better gift.
- Thank you for being the greatest mother, wife, and friend that anyone could ask for. I was more than moved to see the amount of people who have developed love and respect enough to recount the many ways you have reached out to them and touched their lives. You are a constant port in the storm for many people, and the strongest woman I know. I truthfully hope to grow to be a fraction of the woman that you are, and I am so grateful that you are my mother and for the family that we have.
WE LOVE YOU- HAPPY BIRTHDAY
- Alexis Christine
My True Hero
Dear Debbie,
Everything my sister said reflects my feelings as well. I adore you for your grace and your devotion to my wonderful nephew. He is more like a son to me than a nephew, and I am constantly amazed by both of you!
Lynne and I are in the most beautiful setting either of us has ever been in on our honeymoon, in Cancun. But, I want to take a few moments to let you know how much you are loved and admired. Words are inadequate. . . .
We both appreciate your coming to Savannah--the triplets stole everyone's attention and heart, as usual!! Lynne loves the gift Alexis made and gave to her, and will be contacting her soon, so I won't elaborate on that.
Lynne asked me to let you know: "Dale has been my hero, but the more I know, the more I realize that you are my true hero."
We love you both very much. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Aunt Lynne & Uncle Brent
Everything my sister said reflects my feelings as well. I adore you for your grace and your devotion to my wonderful nephew. He is more like a son to me than a nephew, and I am constantly amazed by both of you!
Lynne and I are in the most beautiful setting either of us has ever been in on our honeymoon, in Cancun. But, I want to take a few moments to let you know how much you are loved and admired. Words are inadequate. . . .
We both appreciate your coming to Savannah--the triplets stole everyone's attention and heart, as usual!! Lynne loves the gift Alexis made and gave to her, and will be contacting her soon, so I won't elaborate on that.
Lynne asked me to let you know: "Dale has been my hero, but the more I know, the more I realize that you are my true hero."
We love you both very much. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Aunt Lynne & Uncle Brent
Eskimo Joes Cheese Fries
Dear Debbie,
Well, I see my family has posted, but I wanted to say a few things too. I
don't think I have seen you since we were at BYU, but have thought about you
many times since. I have good memories of Ponca City and Stillwater. I was
always known as "Paul's sister" among your friends, but that was OK. You were
always kind to me, and I looked up to you and your friends. I won't forget all
the trips to Stillwater down the two- way highway. My parents barely made it
through those days :) Going to Eskimo Joes and eating cheese fries, girls camp
and the canoes, and stake dances of course.
You have a great family and extended family which I am sure have helped you
through some tough times. I admire you for your strength and optimism in times
of trial. I hope to see you all again sometime.
Take Care,
Kim Nielsen Wardle
don't think I have seen you since we were at BYU, but have thought about you
many times since. I have good memories of Ponca City and Stillwater. I was
always known as "Paul's sister" among your friends, but that was OK. You were
always kind to me, and I looked up to you and your friends. I won't forget all
the trips to Stillwater down the two- way highway. My parents barely made it
through those days :) Going to Eskimo Joes and eating cheese fries, girls camp
and the canoes, and stake dances of course.
You have a great family and extended family which I am sure have helped you
through some tough times. I admire you for your strength and optimism in times
of trial. I hope to see you all again sometime.
Take Care,
Kim Nielsen Wardle
Mother-in-law Sentiments
Dear Debbie--
Before I even get started, I am tearing up. I believe you know how dear you are to all the in-law side of your family. We all agree that of all Dale's great decisions, the one to marry you was his greatest! As in most families, the success in fitting in is to be tolerant of many short-comings and in having a great sense of humor, and you have exhibited both of these characteristics many times. You had to have a great sense of humor to even marry Dale! Of course, I want to repeat what I have said many times....He is wonderful and you are also fortunate to have married him too! Ha. I am sure that while you have had the good grace not to say it out loud, you must have thought many times that I am like Granny Clampett, especially with one early experience of thinking the box I had left at your house contained the corpse of a dead baby possum I had been caring for. I do not recall how long you let that box sit in your house before asking Dale to remove it, only to discover it held a new set of dishes for you!
Most young wives do not have to face the kind of challenges that you did. If I had not already loved you, I certainly would have loved you then because I know that it is because of you that my son even lived, that he determined to continue to persevere to reaching his goal of providing for his family, and his becoming all he has become in all areas of his life. What more could parents want for their son?
I am thankful for your ways of showing appreciation to Dale (my Dale) and me, and for always sharing and allowing me to be so involved in the girls' lives. I am thankful to have been able to really live with you and to have been a part of taking care of you and your family as we awaited the birth of our triplets. I am thankful for my memories of those days, and I really believe you and I became much closer as we shared the fun, work, and true exhaustion in caring for those precious babies. I love recollecting our conversations as we sat feeding them, playing, dancing, and all the other things we did to keep them happy and entertained. I also am appreciative to Alex who had to share her room with me, and still wants to be with me, and who to this day, still sleeps with me even she doesn't have to. Ha!
People say boys choose wives like their mothers. But fortunately for him, Dale did not. I wish I possessed your strength and composure. I am thankful for your example even in the face of severe adversity. Where I tend to fall apart, you seem to really "buck up". I recall your standing at Dale's head in ICU tightly clutching the scriptures, with only a faint trace of tears on your cheeks while I fell apart. I recall your statement on the day your house burned, destroying, or at the very least, damaging almost everything, including all Dale's very valuable notes and computers he needed to take his tests to practice medicine. You and he were also facing the difficult task of finding a place to live, as well as clean-up and replacement of necessities. You stated quite profoundly and accurately that " if this had happened 10 years earlier, we would have thought it to be devastating, but we have been through worse, and we will get through this!"
Well, as you already know, I can get quite lengthy in my comments, so if you have read all this, I will close by stating that I love you and appreciate your example, admire your testimony of the gospel, thank you for being the wonderful mother you areand for marrying, loving, and supporting my son. I look forward to making many more memories and to sharing our lives together forever.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!
Billie
And now, my mother asked me to make the following comments for her:
Debbie--
You are the sweetest little granddaughter-in-law anyone could ever be lucky enough to have. You are so kind and generous to all the family and we all love you so very much. You are truly our saint.
Happy Birthday.
Grandma Davis
Before I even get started, I am tearing up. I believe you know how dear you are to all the in-law side of your family. We all agree that of all Dale's great decisions, the one to marry you was his greatest! As in most families, the success in fitting in is to be tolerant of many short-comings and in having a great sense of humor, and you have exhibited both of these characteristics many times. You had to have a great sense of humor to even marry Dale! Of course, I want to repeat what I have said many times....He is wonderful and you are also fortunate to have married him too! Ha. I am sure that while you have had the good grace not to say it out loud, you must have thought many times that I am like Granny Clampett, especially with one early experience of thinking the box I had left at your house contained the corpse of a dead baby possum I had been caring for. I do not recall how long you let that box sit in your house before asking Dale to remove it, only to discover it held a new set of dishes for you!
Most young wives do not have to face the kind of challenges that you did. If I had not already loved you, I certainly would have loved you then because I know that it is because of you that my son even lived, that he determined to continue to persevere to reaching his goal of providing for his family, and his becoming all he has become in all areas of his life. What more could parents want for their son?
I am thankful for your ways of showing appreciation to Dale (my Dale) and me, and for always sharing and allowing me to be so involved in the girls' lives. I am thankful to have been able to really live with you and to have been a part of taking care of you and your family as we awaited the birth of our triplets. I am thankful for my memories of those days, and I really believe you and I became much closer as we shared the fun, work, and true exhaustion in caring for those precious babies. I love recollecting our conversations as we sat feeding them, playing, dancing, and all the other things we did to keep them happy and entertained. I also am appreciative to Alex who had to share her room with me, and still wants to be with me, and who to this day, still sleeps with me even she doesn't have to. Ha!
People say boys choose wives like their mothers. But fortunately for him, Dale did not. I wish I possessed your strength and composure. I am thankful for your example even in the face of severe adversity. Where I tend to fall apart, you seem to really "buck up". I recall your standing at Dale's head in ICU tightly clutching the scriptures, with only a faint trace of tears on your cheeks while I fell apart. I recall your statement on the day your house burned, destroying, or at the very least, damaging almost everything, including all Dale's very valuable notes and computers he needed to take his tests to practice medicine. You and he were also facing the difficult task of finding a place to live, as well as clean-up and replacement of necessities. You stated quite profoundly and accurately that " if this had happened 10 years earlier, we would have thought it to be devastating, but we have been through worse, and we will get through this!"
Well, as you already know, I can get quite lengthy in my comments, so if you have read all this, I will close by stating that I love you and appreciate your example, admire your testimony of the gospel, thank you for being the wonderful mother you areand for marrying, loving, and supporting my son. I look forward to making many more memories and to sharing our lives together forever.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!
Billie
And now, my mother asked me to make the following comments for her:
Debbie--
You are the sweetest little granddaughter-in-law anyone could ever be lucky enough to have. You are so kind and generous to all the family and we all love you so very much. You are truly our saint.
Happy Birthday.
Grandma Davis
Monday, April 4, 2011
Forever young.
Debbie,
You are 40 years old. Wow. In a way it makes me feel old. But in a more real way it makes me feel young, because you are young. I view you as perpetually young, energetic, optimistic, capable and happy. I don't think that will ever change.
I remember growing-up years. It was you and Susie vs. me. I built a fort, you and Susie had to lobby to be admitted into it. my friend and I pitched a tent in our backyard, you and Susie would come terrorize us. You sat on the edge of your bed before sleep, I reached out from my hiding spot under your the bed and grabbed your ankles.
The thing is, when I retired from these battles, I had to go to my room by myself, and you and Susie got to stay up giggling and talking. I loved how you were always best friends, sharing everything.
I remember High School years, watching you ace your classes and rock your cross country... I was *so* confident in your abilities. I thought you were a golden child--someone who could succeed at anything. People loved you, and you and your friends were always laughing. You loved telling Verdean stories, and I remember my stomach hurting from laughing so hard.
When I left for UT, I got pictures of you winning cross-country meets. These continued on my mission. Then you got accepted to BYU, and I had 2 sisters there. What else was I to do except drop my spot at UT and return from my mission to BYU instead?
You lived in Heritage Halls when I arrived, and you had awesome roommates. You were having a ton of fun at BYU, and I liked hanging out at your place. It made me feel like I belonged.
Then you married Dale, and I remember visiting you two... I remember making Taco Salad... and of course I remember when Alex was born. I was proud to be her first babysitter, and I especially was happy--really happy--to sit in your apartment while you and Dale went out and I got to hold that little (big) bundle of joy.
Speaking of big.... Alex was FAT. I remember talking to Kyle Newkirk once, and he said he had recently seen you and your new baby in Stillwater, and he couldn't think of anything else to say, so he froze and then heard himself saying, "That's the fattest baby I've ever seen." I laughed and laughed. Yes, Alex did have four knees and six elbows, and she was super fat. But then again, so was Matt. And we loved both :). I was proud that you and Dale had a little baby and that I was an uncle. You were moving forward with your life, and I was a little jealous :).
Then the terrible phone call. Lisa and I were working on our condo--a couple weeks before getting married--and we got a phone call about Dale's accident. My heart sunk, and I went immediately into action mode. I was on the next flight I could get to Denver (the next morning?) I had no idea what to expect, and there was a big hole of anticipation in my chest as I walked in to the room. I was greeted as family and ushered in, and there you were with Dale. He could barely talk. He had had the worst night of his life. I'll never forget what he said to me. "I wanted to die. The pain was so horrible, and the noise was so loud (from the MRI), I wanted to die. But I love your sister. And I love Alex. And I knew I couldn't die--I wanted to hang on for them." Dale was emotional and tough all at the same time. He has gone on to inspire me and many others. You chose a good man to marry--a really good man.
I never saw you flinch. I'm sure you did, but I never saw it.
Since then we have visited only a few times in Oklahoma, and mostly seen you and Dale at family reunions. Alex has become a great friend, and we love having her visit us. You and Dale have raised wonderful daughters, and you are an incredible example to everyone who knows you.
You are still perpetually young, energetic, optimistic, capable and happy. I don't think anything can change that about you--in fact, if anyone dares to try you will change them instead. You lift people up. You are a wonderful person and friend and sister. I am proud to be your brother.
-Dave, age 4~#$@
Congo Bars, Mexicali's, Hideaway, K'Bob's
Debbie -
Here are some thoughts of the past ( not in any order )-----
Your mother driving us to stake dances in Ark City and the record player for a sound system.
Being at a stop light with Verdeen on a hill in standard shift car with many cars behind us.
Your mother driving us to stake dances in Ark City and the record player for a sound system.
Being at a stop light with Verdeen on a hill in standard shift car with many cars behind us.
Our road trips to Tulsa with Lena eating at Mexicali's and being crazy at Sam's warehouse.
Going to Utah for spring break, leaving in the middle of the night, eating pounds of trail mix and breathing gasoline fumes in my sleep in the back seat as we watched tumble weeds blow across the hwy through New Mexico
Many Friday nights hanging with Lena, eating Congo Bars in spite of any previous diet we claimed to be on.
Hanging with the Ponca Boys-- Dean, Paul, Rob
Having get togethers with Kent Ackers, James Standfield, Karyn, Lisa, Maya, Tammy and many others.
Of course, the many church functions since primary. Pam, Debbie Wilson, Sydnee, Lena, Verdeen, Rick Ahlander and George Tovar, Tonya white, Ken Hansen....
Our Young Life friends and outings after football games to K'Bobs or the The Hideway.
Watching you and Dale date, marry, have kids and deal with a life-changing challenge. Your example as a couple has inspired many to have the courage and faith to live and face adversity.
There is so much more. Thanks for being such a wonderful friend and the fact you will always be a bit older than me! Happy Birthday...
Love, Jeff Gray
Going to Utah for spring break, leaving in the middle of the night, eating pounds of trail mix and breathing gasoline fumes in my sleep in the back seat as we watched tumble weeds blow across the hwy through New Mexico
Many Friday nights hanging with Lena, eating Congo Bars in spite of any previous diet we claimed to be on.
Hanging with the Ponca Boys-- Dean, Paul, Rob
Having get togethers with Kent Ackers, James Standfield, Karyn, Lisa, Maya, Tammy and many others.
Of course, the many church functions since primary. Pam, Debbie Wilson, Sydnee, Lena, Verdeen, Rick Ahlander and George Tovar, Tonya white, Ken Hansen....
Our Young Life friends and outings after football games to K'Bobs or the The Hideway.
Watching you and Dale date, marry, have kids and deal with a life-changing challenge. Your example as a couple has inspired many to have the courage and faith to live and face adversity.
There is so much more. Thanks for being such a wonderful friend and the fact you will always be a bit older than me! Happy Birthday...
Love, Jeff Gray
Here is to toxic - now banned by international law - red lipstick.....
I'm 16. Date with - maybe not the first date - with a cute girl. As the car is pulling into the driveway, the timing could not be better, here come Debbie and Susie wearing the most glaring red lipstick ever conjured up by the evil forces that make up the cosmetic industry with what must have been left-over waste material from Chernoble. I get wrestled to the ground (hey, I was a small kid!), and kissed innumerable times. The most important question is.........was that the only smooching action that I got that night....?!? I actually can't remember........so don't ask!
If I had bathed in diesel fuel I still don't think I could have washed that stuff off. Thanks Debbie for that. Thanks for making sure I did not leave the house in a more embarrassing combination of hand me down t-shirts, plain-pocket jeans, and corrective shoes (this goes with the don' ask clause mentioned previously). And thanks for being you!! Love you Deb!!
Dan
If I had bathed in diesel fuel I still don't think I could have washed that stuff off. Thanks Debbie for that. Thanks for making sure I did not leave the house in a more embarrassing combination of hand me down t-shirts, plain-pocket jeans, and corrective shoes (this goes with the don' ask clause mentioned previously). And thanks for being you!! Love you Deb!!
Dan
Debbie.So your gonna be 40, huh.
I guess it's inevitable, if you live long enough, you are eventually gonna hit the big 40. Thank you for beating me to that goal as well. I too, have been working toward the big 40, but have been bested by a few of my siblings but you, Debbie, are really taking my cake.
First of all, you were always the little angel growing up, taking care of little me, Daniel and the "Little Sisters".Always listening to others and genuinely caring about their problems. Helping out around the house without a complaint. Making your own clothes (seriously who does that)! Eating an apple with a kitchen knife (very Crocodile Dundee)! Going to State on the Cross Country Team. Acing your ACT. Marrying a blue eyed quarterback. Then you had to be the first to have a baby not to mention the first to have triplets. The first to run a marathon and I'm not totally sure on this but, the first to ski in jeans!
Yes, it is true, you did not turn forty first but you still got there before me! Not only did you do all of these things first, you did them with style and a smile, making everything look soooo easy!!! And thank you for this blog, which upon reading, I am now filled with a little self hatred yet somehow inspired!! So have a wonderful 40th Birthday and Thank you!!!
Your ever loving brother,
Matt
You Are Awesome!
Dear Debbie,
I have not seen much of you since high school, but in those days it was fun to have you and your group at our home. I remember the pictionary games that had the exuberance of youth and filled our home with laughter.
I have heard about some of the experiences you have had over the years and have said prayers for you and shed some tears . You have been a great example of how to respond to and overcome trials and adversity. You are admirable in the way you serve your husband! Being the mother of triplets, I am sure, is a great blessing, but also it must have been very challenging especially when they were babies.. You are awesome ! We honor you and your past 40 years.
Love,
Hi Debbie
Happy Birthday! You are such an inspiration for me. You and Dale have raised 4 beautiful, talented and confident girls. I really look up to you. Thank you for running with me the other day, man was it hard but we did it. I really appreciate your friendship, it is nice to be able to talk with someone that is going thru some of the same things in life. I hope your day is great. You have so many people that adore you and are look up to you.
Leslie Mendenhall
Happy Birthday! You are such an inspiration for me. You and Dale have raised 4 beautiful, talented and confident girls. I really look up to you. Thank you for running with me the other day, man was it hard but we did it. I really appreciate your friendship, it is nice to be able to talk with someone that is going thru some of the same things in life. I hope your day is great. You have so many people that adore you and are look up to you.
Leslie Mendenhall
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Debbie! I hope you have the best 40th year that anyone has ever had! You deserve a celebration for your birth on a daily basis, woman. You are my hero in so many ways. Now, we all need to see pictures of you that especially highlight timeless Debbieness for this celebration. Commencing… J ENJOY!
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| Look at that hair! |
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| Look at those eyes! |
Love Always, Jenn.
Wishing a Wonderful Day to a Beautiful Lady
Dear Deborah,
I have always admired you. You are a talented and beautiful sister. I especially enjoyed your Relief Society lessons and your pay it forward Christmas story. You have a lovely charitable heart. I look up to you. I will look forward to the time we may possibly be in a ward or calling together again. Have a fantastic Birthday and 40th year! With love,
Stacey Braghini
I have always admired you. You are a talented and beautiful sister. I especially enjoyed your Relief Society lessons and your pay it forward Christmas story. You have a lovely charitable heart. I look up to you. I will look forward to the time we may possibly be in a ward or calling together again. Have a fantastic Birthday and 40th year! With love,
Stacey Braghini
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| Eric's old car "speedy" |
Debbie
Happy Birthday. Well there is life after 40. It is all uncharted territory but so far not bad.
It was fun to dig up some old pictures. My son was amused by my bit of a mullet showing. It is hard to believe so much time has passed since all our trips down the drunk Indian road to Stillwater. Lots of good memories for sure. Stake Dances, Joes cheese fries, Verdean doing the Axle Rose dance, headbangers ball, Journey concert, cross country just to name a few.
It is fun to see your family grow up. You have been a great example in what you have accomplished with your family. It was great to see you Verdean and Tonya a couple of years ago when you were on a visit. Would love to do that again some time. Hope the next 40 are as good as the previous.
As a wise person(Verdean) I once knew said "Isn't it funny how we grow old"
Paul
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Wishing You the Very Best
Dear Debbie,
What a beautiful and wonderful wife and mother you have grown into. I remember this cute, sweet, brown hair, brown eyed little girl running around Grandma and Grandpa Boyce's house in Provo . What a joy it was to play with you.
Later, as a teenager (I think), you stayed with Grandma and Grandpa Boyce for a few days. This is the tribute Grandma Boyce paid to you. She said, "Debbie was so helpful and pleasant to have here. She seemed to know what needed to be done and did it before I could even ask her." That was very high praise from Grandma. That comment has stuck with me all these years.
Happy, happy Birthday!! How can that many years have passed already. Wishing you the very best now and forever.
Lots of Love,
Gordon and Marba Andrus
Friday, April 1, 2011
SS at SS
If I wasn’t so computer illiterate I would write this letter to you in the same manner we would write our notes when we were younger…using magazine cutouts for words and pictures; writing in a circle around the page so we’d have to turn the page around to read it; making crossword puzzles or word searches as a part of our message or any other creative thing that we could think of. THEN we had to fold them in the coolest origami shapes we knew of -or that we saw Suzi do for her friends- before we could give them to each other. Ok, not quite what origami is to most, but it was still paper folding.
I still remember when I first met you. I had just moved in. I think that it was after Halloween and we were in Sunday school. I was terrified because I didn’t know anyone. Pam was passing around candy to everyone and skipped right over me. I was mortified. You said, “Pam, you missed the new girl.” I knew from that moment I loved you and wanted to be your friend. (BTW I was so mortified that she would purposely skip me that when she turned back to ask me if I wanted any I said no. I wasn’t going to take anything from her! Ha ha!)
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| One of our matching outfits. We were stylin" |
- You introduced me to peanut butter on waffles and in oatmeal! YUM. You also introduced me to brussel sprouts (with cheese sauce). YUCK! OH! How could I forget powdered milk. ;) Dinner at your house was always fun.
- You would play the piano and we would sing “IF”. It was our favorite. Laying in the street in the middle of the night acting like we were dead waiting for cars to come. Spying on Suzi. Listening to the newest prank you did to get Suzi back for something she had done to you. (So glad I was your friend and not your sis!) Ha ha
- Back to the food: we had fun putting whatever was in your fridge in the blender. Did whoever started Fear Factor spy on us? We also had fun making commercials for what products were in your fridge.
- Girls Camp was ALWAYS a blast. Especially the practical jokes we’d play. We had a great laugh when Bobby went missing and we were in his mom’s van and had to go search all over kingdom come to find him. OH boy, was she mad!
- Going to Kent Akers house to listen to his new “CD player”. He was the first one to get one.
- Thanksgiving dinner at your house. We dressed up as the maids/servers. Deb Wilson’s mom brought her orange rolls. DELISH! (We must have loved to dress up.)
- Sewing lessons from Sister Brown. We made our gray poofy pants with plum and pink polka dots. We were stylin! We wore them to the following Super Saturday.
- Speaking of Super Saturdays…How lucky were we. We definitely had the perfect teen years with the Ponca boys. Fun times. How I wish my kids could have the friendships that we developed there. We could hardly wait for the dances and Super Saturdays to arrive. As soon as one was over we started planning the next. I know the dances have never been the same since we left! Lol. What fun times. I smile thinking of them. NEVER forget that we were SS @SS (Sex symbols at Super Saturday!) lol!
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| Missing: Rob Stolt and Bubba Smoot |
- All of our matching clothes and hats. What were we thinking? Seeing yours and Suzy’s pics I place the blame on you. You were the common denominator in the wearing of matching clothes.
- Driving to school from Seminary in Verdeans car, with the music blaring. Packed in like sardines.
- Running…I wanted to be like you and run sooo bad. I tried it out, but after Mr. Gordon made fun of me for running on my toes I decided that I would quit and just be the track manager so I could still be a part of it. (Have to say I had fun with that!) You are the reason I started running as an adult. I still want to be you. You are amazing.
- The last thing I will bring up so we aren’t here all day is the modeling pictures. We definitely had fun. Looking at my scrapbook I laugh and would die if anyone saw them. Especially the one with you holding a bat across my neck and me lying on the floor acting as if I were dead. What were we thinking? Sooo many fun memories.
Thank you for being my bff. You, Deb #1 and Verdean have played such an important part of my life. When I moved I was so upset. I was so jealous that you could all go on without me. And I remember pulling back and not staying in touch…not because I was mad at you, but because it hurt so much that I wasn’t there to do everything ya’ll still did. (Dumb I know) You have always been such a wonderful example to me and I still want to be you when I grow up. I am so grateful we could get in touch again. Jackson Hole will always be a highlight for me. I love you and thank you for your wonderful friendship.SS @ SS,
Tonya Jones
- PS, 40 is the new 20! Have fun!
To Debbie from Dad
So many precious memories. These stand out:
It was Halloween. You were little, so excited to put on your costume and go trick or treating. It rained – hard. It was cold and so windy – low 40’s. Everything was soaking wet – impossible to navigate the streets and keep one’s feet dry. After a few houses, your costume was a wreck, your face and hands and feet must have felt like blocks of ice, and on this night that you had anticipated with so much joy, you burst into tears. ‘Bout broke my heart.
It was a rare autumn day that I was home. Your mom and I took you pre-schoolers somewhere fun – to a park? – then did some shopping. We got home after your nap time, but tried to feed you lunch, then put you down. We put you in your high chair and put a bowl of soup on your try. We got distracted, probably by one of your siblings, turned back to you, and there you were, sound asleep with your face squarely in your half-eaten bowl of soup.
You were 4. We had all gone to Missouri for Grandma Killingsworth’s funeral. I was carrying you. We saw Grandma and Grandpa Layer, then Uncle David and Aunt Bev. And look, here comes Grandpa Killingsworth! You were happy to see everyone. And then, when you and I were by ourselves for a moment, you quietly asked, “Where’s Grandma K?” It wasn’t until that moment that you knew what dying and funeral even meant. During the services themselves, it was so touching to see you and Susie sitting on either side of Grandpa K, an arm around each of you. The comfort you two gave him that day was precious to behold.
You were 6 or 7. I took you kids bowling. I instructed you all to find a ball, pointing out where the child’s sizes were. You selected a bright red one and came up to show it to me. In your excitement it slipped from your grip, and landed right on my foot. I was hopping around in quite a bit of pain. You were right on my tail, reassuring me over and over, “It’s all right, Dad! It’s all right!”
In Boston when you were in your early teens we stepped into a diner along the Freedom Trail for lunch, sitting on stools at the counter. I let each of you order what you wanted. The near-sighted short order cook kept turning to you as he took the other kids’ orders: “Is that ok, Mama, can your little one have that?”
Later in your teen-age years, you wanted to go to a concert with your friends: White Snake. I said no. Although I’m sure you felt it on other occasions, that is the only time I remember you showing any hostility toward your father: “Dad, I don’t think you’re being very fair!”
Your talk at a youth fireside after Dale’s accident, about a childhood Family Home Evening that you remembered when in crisis touched me deeply. Thank you for inviting us to the fireside in the first place, then letting us know that holding Family Home Evening regularly was worth it after all.
Happy Birthday, dear Debbie. I could go on, but I hope you sense that your dad loves you as deeply as you love your own children, and he always has.
Love, Dad
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