Super Dad

Dustin's birthday was Thursday. I woke up feeling pretty crummy that day, but I shoved some ibuprofen down my throat and got started on his cake and wrapping his presents. By the time I picked Sadie up from school I felt like I wanted to pass out because I felt so miserable. Dustin ended up taking Nate to tennis and picking up his own birthday dinner. I feel like the worst wife ever. But Super Dad doesn't care. His one birthday wish is always: "I don't want you to stress out."

Luckily for me, I am always overly-prepared so we still had gifts and cake. I asked all the kids what the wanted to get him. My kids are SO predictable. They pick the same thing every.single.time. Nate: A water bottle. Ellie: Gum. Sadie: A birthday hug. Oh my gosh, I laughed and laughed when they told me. The only other thing that they know Dustin likes is peanut butter and chocolate and could I please make him a peanut butter chocolate cake?? I love those kids and how sweet they are. Even if they get us the same presents for the rest of our lives. Just wait for my birthday -- I'm almost positive I will get a dress, a purse and jewelry. And I love it!!!

We also spoiled Super Dad with some surprises -- new ties and church shirts and a Nixxon watch. I also found a picture someone drew for him on his mission and had it framed because there should always be a sentimental gift in there! And then I passed out because my ibuprofen had worn off, so I took some Nyquil and went to bed.

Dustin really is the most amazing person. He has a full plate (actually more than a full plate) between work, church, the kids and a very needy wife, but he manages to keep us all happy and never complains. Things have been especially stressful, as I've been sick and he has to do his work and mine. Add in taking care of a sick wife, getting the kids to all their Halloween activities (in costumes no less), then coming home and getting them to bed and heading back out to help clean up, Nate's birthday and party, re-staffing a Ward, getting the kids to church in between Bishopric meetings and teaching 5th Sunday. . . I think I'm going to owe him some new birthday presents when I get better.

One his best (and worst) qualities is that he always sees the situation for what it really is and rarely gives in to emotion. It's great when you need someone to tell you the logical thing to do or need some words of wisdom. It really stinks when you're all fired up and practical Dustin is sitting there reminding you that it's not worth all the anger or drama. But I appreciate it at times like these. He knows I'm sick and as much as I feel guilty, he just picks up the workload and does it happily. I love you Dustin!!!