My brother the missionary

See that cute little boy down there?? That's my sweet little bro Blake. See that little girl using him as her real live baby doll, putting him in the laundry basket, the shopping cart, and the play crib?? That would be me. Yes I put Blake through a lot these past 19 years, practicing my mothering skills on his behalf, but I think he turned out pretty awesome. (Mostly due to his actual parents of course) Now he's all grown up and as of 9:30pm tonight will be a missionary. He's truly amazing in so many ways, and I had to make a little post just for him, with some pictures just to remember good times! Hopefully this post doesn't embarrass him too much. hehehe

Blake and I shared a room numerous times through our lives, even when we didn't have to, cause it was just more fun being together. I remember one stormy night, neither of us could sleep and we laid in bed and named all the pokemons we could think of until we fell fast asleep.

We've both always had big smiles. I like to think I helped teach him to be the happy person that he is, but really he's taught me to be more that way, and not so serious. Blake can make me laugh at things that no one else can. He is hilarious, and is a big reason that I always had a big smile on my face.

Blake is always about a good time. But he knows how to work hard too and not get too stressed about it. I admire that he never gives up, and he always fights for his goals and achieves them.

Ha ha he's sitting on my lap in this picture, and it makes me laugh, cause it didn't take long for my little bro to pass me up in size. He's a strong grown man now, and I know he'll be fine taking care of himself on his mission, with the Lord's help, I know he's in good hands, and will be protect

He dedicated himself and trained, and ran a marathon awhile ago, which I think is so amazing!! Something I don't think I could ever do, and I truly look up to him for that.

Blake, now you're all grown up and leaving to serve the Lord. You stand for what's right in so many ways, and I am so proud of you!! Even though your my little brother, I look up to you, and I always will. There's not a better thing you could be doing these next two years, than serving the Lord. You've made the right decision and I know He will protect you. I speak for all the family when I say you will be dearly missed....and we will look forward to hearing from you each week!! Give it your all, and never look back. I'm so glad that our little boy will have you to look up to in his life, and can't wait for you to meet him when you get home. I love you Blake. Thank you for your beautiful blessing you gave me a few weeks ago, thank you for your example in our family. Thank you for your advice, and your love. Thank you for putting up with me, and thank you for serving the Lord, and bringing the blessings for our  family. We love you Elder Hawkins.