Stephen has such a caring heart! He loves his friends, he loves his family members, and he loves strangers in other countries. Since 2007, Steve has traveled to Peru, the Dominican Republic, and South Africa. In each country he has worked hard to serve and love other people no matter their race, age, or social standing. He can engage quickly with someone who is very different from him. I so admire that quality about him.
Steve is also a great athlete, and has worked hard to balance his studies and his commitment to tennis. He has been a faithful member of the team, and finished his high school tennis career with excellence. Most of all, he's been an encouragement to his fellow teammates.
As Steve gets older, Little Sister and I love watching the interactions between Stephen and his friends. Stephen's friends are CRAZY about him. They text him all day. They call him at night. They want to know what he's up to on the weekends. Heck, his friends even volunteer to babysit our St. Bernard when we're all out of town!
But, what Little Sister and I admire most about Steve is his resilience, and his perseverance. In the face of failure, Steve isn't defeated. In the face of disappointment, Steve doesn't quit. In his 19 years of life, Steve has enjoyed incredible blessings. He's also walked through incredible heartache- like watching his father recover from a Traumatic Brain Injury. But, Steve is a fighter (we attribute this quality to Mom's side of the family!), and he presses on.
Little Sister and I are so excited for all that this next year holds for Stephen. We are encouraged that he is growing into a mature, honorable man who loves God and loves his family. We love you, Steve. Happy, happy 19th birthday! We're so very thankful you were born.Making a wish!
Stephen's Birthday, May 2006
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