Entrusted

7/28 Dad

2010-07-28T20:32:00.018-05:00

Who can tell this man's story?

Each of his fourteen children might relay a different account of the old man. However, I'm pretty sure that we'd all agree that Dad is a remarkable, uncommonly beloved man.
From the beginning, wrought with childhood naiveté, I believed that my dad could do anything and everything. For the most part, if he wanted something fixed, designed, or built, he’d see to it himself. Even as a four year-old, I was so confident in my father’s abilities that when nearly drowning in my grandpa’s pool, I remained unafraid. I plunged towards the depths and simply thought that Dad should be coming ‘round to fetch me any second. He did and I lived.

Dad’s passion for entertaining pervades both his public and private life. In fact, one of the most impressive characteristics about my dad is his complete comfort with engaging audiences large and small. Growing up, I figured by the way he joked and greeted people anywhere we went, that he must be one of the most important men in Texas or at least, America. However, his affability does not prevent him from doling out a fair share of ascerbic humor and bellowing his controversial opinions to any who'll listen. In home life, Dad plays the ever generous host whose doors are always open for a gathering and for grillin' out. Some of my most vivid childhood memories are from the fajita parties, shish-kabobs, or hamburger nights Dad would host at home. Since then his hospitality has proven a robust medium for building camaraderie and lasting friendships.

Other vivid childhood memories, and among my favorites, are those of family time. In the evenings, after dinner, we kids would abandon our squabbling long enough to lie quietly sprawled around the living room, listening to Dad crunch on ice betwixt sips of Diet Coke as he'd read aloud the adventures from The Magic Bicycle, The Archives of Anthropos, Mark Twain, or the Narnia series. Present day, his evening readings are only commenced on Christmas Eve where a few gather, in-laws and grandkids included, listening to his voice until the last eyelid slumbers.

Dad’s voice has been a powerful influence in my life for some time; I felt and still do feel respected by him. From early on, I think Dad recognized my need to feel special and despite my hyperactive antics, he knew I felt things very deeply; so, when he addressed me or would reprimand me, he did so gently, in a personal manner and with loads of sensitivity. I really felt safe with Dad.

Now, a little more grown up, I understand that Texas may not be quite as large as the U.S., that Dad isn't able to do everything, and that our family is not invincible. If age has matured him in any way, it is that he his beginning to show his wear and tear. And if time has seasoned my perspective of him it is only to contribute to my gratitude towards being given him for a father and being blessed with the rich inheritance that I carry from his example of daily living.

Through him, I know what hard work looks like, what sacrifice behaves like, what leadership performs like, and what faith lives like. I know that in saving your life, you’ll lose it and in losing your life, you’ll save it. I know that Truth is the answer, Grace is the way, and Glory is the hope.

I love you, Dad, more than I know how to express.

Your Favorite #8

11/16 Bethany Paige

2006-12-23T23:45:00.004-06:00

Bethany is expressly desirous to be a "Grandma B". A little help here...

No nickname is quite as befitting like B.B. is for Bethany. Although the conceptual meaning was unflattering, her nickname has served over the years as a positive catalyst for sparking familiarity and harvesting friendships. In addition, it seems her endearing personality beguiles even the stiffest collars to loosen up and allow room for a hearty laugh.

As a child, I was a fierce competitor and spent a great deal of energy capitalizing on other's weaknesses. However, Bethany operated with a completely different mindset - I viewed life as a Monopoly board game (cutthroat, every man for himself, one winner), whereas B assumed more of a Candyland philosophy (be it the king or the swamp tramp, whether the move advances or recedes, a sweet treat is always handy).

With her qualities, Bethany has developed a reputation for being the best kind of friend - faithful, kind, and selfless. Her skillful listening and strictest confidence have earned prime speed-dial status on cell phones of friends and family members alike. Bethany is also popular for her "slave work" such as picking up stranded family members, dictating driving directions via phone for lost motorists, helping setup for and cleanup after functions, fetching a glass of ice cold water for an overly-relaxed sister named Hannah, last-minute, overnight babysitting - all services guaranteed with a happy smile, at no cost, and with nary a complaint.

Alas, every Pollyanna is merely human. Similarly, Bethany's tenacious loyalty through difficult situations and her strong affinity for harmony in relationships have occasionally proven to breed a compromised morality and weak judgement. Many times, her behavior is highly reflective of the mantra within her particular peer group.

Overall, I most admire Bethany's refusal to weigh her value on a comparison basis, but rather finds her significance in the quality of friendships and by her desire to enjoy and to inspire Joy.

11/8 Amber Grace

2006-12-23T23:44:00.002-06:00

Amber: a pale yellow, sometimes reddish.
Grace: freely given, unmerited favor and love.

Amber has always responded best when people take time to understand her; however, as the youngest girl and 12th of 14, she can be somewhat overlooked. With skillful patience and understanding, privileged few have engaged her truly tender, loving spirit. On the other hand, a hasty misunderstanding can provoke a fiery temper...which I remember experiencing in my babysitting days.

As a toddler, Amber was my "baby" - I was responsible for getting her dressed, helping her with school, and supervising her chores. From the beginning, she was very precious to me (as she is with all who truly know her) and learned to call my name whenever she was upset. In retrospect, it seemed like much of the time, I was beckoned out of helpless frustration in response to the misjudgement of a sibling. Privately assuming the role of advocacy, I defended Amber in the midst of disagreements. That is...until at 11 or 12 years old, I was involved in one of the Hartland World Wars (such eruptions usually occurred on parent's date night) after which the Mid/Little Kids unanimously concluded that Amber was in fact, mean. Soon afterwards, I became a self-absorbed teenager and Amber finned for herself, significantly injured, I'm sure.

Fortunately, despite her history of battlewounds, Amber still emerged an absolute masterpiece. Today, she is one of my favorite personalities - friendly yet cautious, accomplished but casual, passionate yet disciplined. Whenever I visit back home, even at 3:00AM, I am assured a welcome place in Amber's room. Better yet, she'll move over, toss you a pillow and groggily agree to run errands with you the next day. In addition, Amber is a dependable help when an extra hand is needed for babysitting, special projects, random events, etc.,... no job is too small.

I look forward to the continued fulfillment of Grace within Amber throughout the stewardship of her gifts as an extraordinary friend, companion, and servant.

9/1 Diana Jill

2006-10-27T00:46:00.000-05:00

Jill was born a leader but it took me a couple of decades to notice.

She rarely, if ever enforced her seniority as the eldest child. Honestly, considering the competitive nature inbred in a majority of us siblings, I doubt Jill could have assumed a "supreme" status if she'd have even tried.
Jill strives to be respectful, considerate and as accommodating as possible. This makes her an ideal house guest but worse-for-the-wear when encountering the merciless sarcasm of her siblings - poor dear. Jill was a favorite target and this concept was ingrained at a very early age when in preschool, I inherited one of the first reading assignments, Jill Is A Pig (a charming book about a friendly pig who ate too many sweets and soiled her wig while playing in the mud). Further endearing name attributes included, "Bill", "Yill", "Pill", or collectively, "Take a chill pill, Bill".

Unbeknownst to Bill, Mom tirelessly promoted her as the Example the rest of us children needed to follow in work, school, and relationships. Aside from modeling a poster child, Jill also proved a tranquil and nurturing respite from the whirlwind of hyperactivity that encompassed the household.

In addition to running to her for R&R, I treasured the special interest she paid to me and my siblings. I felt valued when she'd include me when she was baking, or teaching me piano, helping with chores, or mailing me personal letters from college with unique stickers, pictures, or jokes enclosed. Nowadays, her uncommon generosity is especially evident at Christmastime she goes through budget-defying lengths to share a thoughtful, personalized gift with each family member.

Apart from isolated occasions, her quest for intimacy is continually manifest by the diligence and grace with which she loves others. Her influence as a leader is subtle but unfaltering. In fact, I have only recently become enlightened that our relationship exists because she loved me throughout the pain and resistance that she encountered.

Today, I love her because of the Love she first showed me.

6/30 David Adam

2006-06-29T22:53:00.000-05:00

With a sure grip, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes and his Tom-Sawyer-colored hair flying, David drives Carpe Diem as would a loving friend, a compassionate brother, a devoted father and well, um... Homer Simpson. I think perhaps that his greatest attribute is fully engaging life at both ends of the spectrum without losing touch with reality.

Years before ever gaining his two brothers, David lost no time in revving up plenty of games and competition amongst his eleven sisters. He seemed to live for adventure and his siblings(along with many neighborhood kids) proved to be sport and a rewarding audience for his hilarious antics. Growing up as seven years his younger and four siblings beneath him, I looked forward to the times when my brother was in charge. Even the most dismal of days would perk up as he stooped alongside us little kids, convinced us to laugh, and solicited our participation in his latest, newfangled game. To this day, Dave makes it a priority to maintain an active and curious mind. Even his toddler, Samuel, understands that rocks are for looking under, puddles are for splashing in, and his aunts' purses are for rifling through. It's no mistake that one of my earliest memories includes David trying to teach something exciting to me.

As sure as David is a barrel of fun, so also is he genuine, tenderhearted, and sincerely inspired by his love for God and his commitment to family unity. Likewise, David's love for people and his gift of hospitality designates his home as a central gathering place for friends and family alike. Whether it be over a rousing game of scrabble or beneath the lingering smoke of a back porch cigar, through debate or reflection, in laughter or in tears, David subtly spreads the flame of Hope which so meaningfully ignites his own life.

My future is a brighter place due to the memories David fascilitated. I continue to be inspired by the livelihood, the character, and the spirit emblazoned by him.

5/12 Sarah Ruth

2006-06-29T22:48:00.000-05:00

Sarah never ceases to amaze me; it has been the case for some time and I expect it always will be. I can remember the exact moment during my early teens when I reluctantly agreed with God's plan for me to be Susan, not Sarah.

Despite her efforts to remain unobserved, Sar makes success look effortless and glamour look easy. Life is simple with her: the sky will never fall, so eat, drink, run a few miles and get on with your independent life. Her refreshing advice and caring demeanor have proved invaluable to me. Moreover, she has a natural grace and winsome spirit that merits a special place in the hearts of nearly all who meet her and especially all who are admitted under her care within her hospital ward. For me, the most captivating asset of her beauty is that she eschews popularity or acclaim (both easily attainable in her circumstance) and rather lives primarily in order to help others succeed.

She is also one of the few "softies" in our family and has uncanny sensitivity and foresight when addressing emotional/physical needs. In addition to her empathy, Sarah aims to think the best of people. Her optimism however, comes grounded with a liberal does of sarcasm and dry wit - thus barring naivete. Overall, I have yet to observe the unique blend of strengths such as Sarah exhibits in her qualities of compassion, character, and poise.

Sarah is very wise, divinely gifted, and an endearing personality to our family. Her example of strength has challenged me to reach my potential today and her encouragement will propel me to excel in the days to come.

4/1 Kennedy Marie Smith

2006-06-29T22:41:00.000-05:00

Begotten of Joanna. Can drive a mini 4-wheeler. Inspired her 2nd B-day theme, Raggedy Ann & Andy. Isn't afraid of bugs. Period.

5/20 Rebekah Ann Victoria

2006-06-29T21:12:00.000-05:00

Rebekah is a unique person who markedly "holds her own" in a throng of siblings. Her drive for excellence coupled with profound discipline has yielded high achievements and much success in her pursuits. Whether it be on the athletic field, in the classroom, or behind the kitchen sink, she gives above and beyond what is asked of her.

For better or worse, Bex has learned to mask her sensitivity over the years but she is truly one of the "softies" of the family. To the kids in her peer group, she appears hyper, competitive, and somewhat aloof. To the adults however, her wisdom, maturity, and spiritual sincerity are obvious.

Bekah's gift of compassion and empathy is evident in her genuine friendship with the "misfits" at school and church. She avoids cliques and prefers to identify with the less popular and shy. She loves to play with children, care for animals, read books, out-perform boys, and be punctual. On the other hand, Bex struggles with perfectionism and impossibly high expectations...often resulting in disappointment in herself and in others. On rare occasions, her temper will flare...mainly in response to a sibling's selfishness or ungratefulness.

Rebekah is more beautiful than she realizes, more gifted than she'll admit, and more loved than she believes.

4/23 Monica Jane

2006-06-29T17:38:00.000-05:00

Moni is personality plus, service with a (big, white, organic) smile, fitness nazi, and 24/7 opinionation station. You name it, she's done it...or knows someone who has...and just as good, if not better. You want it, she'll get it...or knows someone who can...for a really great deal too. Shy? Notta problem...she's got stories and more where those came from...nothing's too personal.
Her pedicured feet are usually one step ahead of the crowd and her quick wit enables her to think outside of the box and keep ahead of the curve. She's 60% uber-confidence, 30% solid guts, and 10% sheer B/S. Totally business savvy. Prime politician.

Monica's Makeup Counter is the envy of all of her sisters...so is her ridiculously thick hair - darn it! The shampoo/conditioner collection is a sight to behold and her vitamin/homeopathic cabinet compounds seasonally. Every business owner strikes gold when caught in her referral network. Don't get her started on the evils of fragrances nor the repulsiveness of onions. For the record, her ears are not pierced and never will be. Her cell phone never, ever, EVER shuts up.

Working with her for the past three years and living with her for two of those years, I have had the opportunity to observe Moni in action like never before. Through this period of rediscovering Moni, my patience went through bootcamp and my diet/hygiene went V.I.P. Although she'd be the last to admit it, I am ocassionally convinced that she is one of the most considerate, compassionate and benevolent people that I have ever met.

One thing I am sure of - she's a helluva sister. I am blessed to have her fingerprints impressed on this chapter of my life.

2/5 Abigail Eileen

2006-05-06T01:06:00.000-05:00

Abs, Abby, Flabby, Babs, Babbles, Wubby, Crabby, Wabbs, Wubbs, Bobble-gail, etc.,...
Everything's a laugh-'n-a-half with Abigail. If she chooses to like you (and she most definitely chooses), you're in for the best of times. Growing up, my funnest years were the few spent closest to Sugar Worm and I have yet to enjoy a sister's friendship so much. Her camaraderie continues to be both refreshing and rejuvenating.

At work, Abs is determined, discerning, and fiercely independent. At play, she's infectious, enthralling, uninhibited and carefree. Early on, Mom dubbed Abs as "The Stubborn Mule" because no severity of punishment seemed to conform the toddler's/teenager's strong will.

Today, her characteristic stubborness is manifest in a variety of strengths. Abi loves adventure, running, tennis, Mexican culture (especially the age<21 drinking), discussing politics, baking cookies for others, and laughing (loudly). She dislikes yoga, looong conversations about feelings, manipulation (especially guilt trips), braggarts, and especially hypocrites. She's rarely coerced into participation - rather, Abi's driven by ideals, philosophy, and...fun.

I most admire Abigail's determination, resilience, and integrity withall. She will always be very, very dear to me.

1/28 Adele Christian

2006-05-04T21:42:00.001-05:00

Being the 1st birthday of the year (and the 2nd born to boot), Adella Bella is a daunting persona to summarize - the reason I've avoided this post for so long.

To begin with, Adele is disarmingly hospitable and can make even the weirdest of oddballs feel at ease. She has a creative nack for interior decorating, is the celebrated chef of the family, and is the first to plan the b-day celebrations. Her forte is the cultivation of genuine, meaningful relationships through compassion, generosity, and selflessness.

Growing up, she was impossibly competitive, weilded sharp fingernails and even sharper criticism, which helped establish her "superiority". Oftentimes, she proved to be a rather vile sort of company, particularly for sisters closest in proximity.

Adele has since been a source of bewilderment amonst us siblings.Her jr. yr. in college, she suddenly abandoned her 4.0 GPA to serve overseas as a missionary and then subsequently as a nanny/tutor for several more years (she eventually finished that degree). Nowadays, she effortlessly and very successfully dons a bizarre style that would rival a New York runway (and all within the respective budget of a broke college student). The point being, Adele grasps life in a fashion that is autonomous of status quo and irrespective of approval-ratings.

In the sibling pairing system established by my father, I was assigned to Adele (i.e., I was her "baby"). More than dressing me for church and teaching me to tie my shoes, Adele provided invaluable mentorship through my most challening teenage years, thus imparting her love for God and compassion for others.

Overall, I most admire Adele's conviction to live life primarily committed to the welfare of others...for the glory of God.

12/12 Daniel Schaeffer

2006-01-02T10:53:00.000-06:00

12/12 Daniel's 13th

Just like his brothers, Daniel has been and'll always be the shortest on his backetball team. Being dwarfed hasn't interfered with his charm for the ladies though, he is a self-professed "chick magnet." He is also the only 13yr old I know of who shamelessly hugs/kisses his mom and sisters in public.
Excluding sensitivity and flirtatiousness, Daniel and I have a few things in common - we are both hoarse voiced, have a bulging vein on the side of our necks, freckled, competitive, and most of all scatterbrained.
Poor dude.

12/13 Hannah Michelle & Joanna Marie

2006-01-02T10:50:00.001-06:00

Hannah's (R) & Joanna's (L) 23rd

Joanna's younger, married, pregnant again, responsible, and tenderhearted.
Hannah's older by a minute, life of the party, Daddy's-girl, drama queen, and lighthearted.
Both are extremely loyal, friendly, and easy-going.
Growing up, I was fiercely competitive with these two. There were few things which we three weren't involved in together, and even fewer in which I didn't aim to surpass/outshine them.
Although I convinced myself I was smarter, more talented, better looking and closer to God than the twins were - both showed me a considerable amount of grace. Well actually, Hannah easily forgave, forgot, and danced on her merry way. On the other hand, Joanna & I were arch rivals and locked horns until we both had moved out on our own. By God's grace, Joanna is now one of my nearest and dearest sisters.

12/28 Charles Edwards

2006-01-02T10:47:00.000-06:00

Charlie's 9th

Charlie's the youngest and accordingly, Mommy's baby.
His hyperactivity masks a frighteningly mature person. Out of the five youngest siblings (Little Kids), conversations with Char leave me the most astounded. He exhibits a selflessness which belies convictions stronger than any of his siblings ever portrayed at his age and still fail to at twice his age.
Being the youngest and (dare I say?) spoiled, he is often heckled by the other Little Kids but he rarely retaliates nor begrudges. Consequently, I have caught myself looking to him for inspiration in forgiving and loving particularly unpleasant family members.
I get a suspicion that Charlie has a spectacular purpose that will surprise us all upon fulfillment.

Why I'm An Aunt

2005-12-01T13:24:00.000-06:00

Samuel Hartland (11/18/03) & Kennedy Smith (4/1/04)