Champion!

Ian’s favorite book is a book he read as a teenager titled “Think Like a Champion.”  I myself have not read the entire book, but I have read a few chapters and segments.  Chapter 2, focuses on acknowledging fans, or those special people who are there to see you perform.  It reminds us that “every tiny positive action you take will be magnified a hundred fold by your fans.”  So today as one of Ian’s greatest fans, I’m going to take a minute and do just that. It is his birthday anyway, so it is totally legal to do so :).

Ian is one of the hardest workers I have ever known.  He doesn’t claim to be smart (although I know he is) he says he just works hard.  Yes, he does.  He has sacrificed hundreds of hours of sleep to study.  He doesn’t quit when some may say it is quitting time.  He gives more.  I don’t know how he does it, but he just keeps working at it, with no shortcuts, till he gets it!  His hard work led him to be a great basketball player in high school, scoring 40 some points in his last season game as a senior… including 11 three pointers.  His hard work led him to be a leader as a missionary.  His hard work got him through his undergrad in three years instead of four.  And his hard work has led him to scholarships and a top academic rank in medical school.  If he wants to accomplish something, watch out he is going to work his tail end off until he achieves it!

Ian is a family man!  I love that so much, more than anything really!  He would rather spend time with me and his kids then “hang out with the guys.”  He never skipped out on family time because of a big test.  Everyday our kids run out the door squealing cheers of joy because their dad is home.  He makes life fun for our family, he puts his family first, he is consistent.  He tickles his kids, makes them respect their mom, and never forgets to have family prayer. He dances with his princess.  I love watching him be a dad, our children are very blessed to have him, and I feel even more so.

Ian is honest.  That means a lot to me.

Ian is confident, but doesn’t brag.  I do it for him :)

Ian knows how to help people laugh, especially if a situation becomes uncomfortable.    He can be as serious as a heart attack (insider) and we all die laughing.  And he can calm my spit fire when I need it.  He is a great impersonator, and has some amazing facial expressions.  He also knows how to use humor to deflect criticism.  All of this plus much more, leads to a fun person to be around. 

Ian honors womanhood.  He has never criticized me or made me feel insecure or inferior.  He respects and honors virtue.  He despises the scum and base things of the world.  Not too many men can say that these days.

Ian is fun loving.  He loves to surprise people, especially me.  Usually it is with a gift or fun activity, but sometimes it is with cold water in the shower or down my back.  He loves seeing a surprised face. :)

I love that Ian is his true self.  If you don’t like him, oh well.  He is who he is, and stands up for what he believes. 

I love that when Ian was called to work with the young men in church, the ym that were seated up front started giving props all around.  (yes, they were at the sacrament table too… oops :)) but it just made my heart happy to see others’ love and appreciation for him too (especially from 16 and 17 year old boys).  He is a fantastic teacher.

Ian CAN'T hold a grudge.  He just can't do it, even if I want him to.  :).  It doesn't mean everyone is his best friend, but if you are a jerk to him, he won't hold it against you.  ...He will just laugh it off and choose to not give you a chance to let it get to him.

One of my favorite memories this past year was going to go see him in Seattle.  As I was coming down the elevator with Pax on my back, I saw him… waiting anxiously to see me.  Our reunion was sweet.  I had missed him so much.  That weekend was so fun.  I love being around him, and I miss him so much when he is gone. 

    

Ian is my best friend.  He forgives my weaknesses, and makes me want to be better.  He always makes sure I know he loves me.  He holds my hand. He makes me happy. I love being married to someone who not only knows how to think like a champion, but he acts like one too.  

Our whole family agrees that you are the #1 dad, and that is the #1 that matters most to us. We love you Ian!  Happy Birthday!  I'm so glad you have finally caught up to me.  I have been 29 for several years now :) We can finally grow old together :)