the folks.

Dear Reader,
My mind isn't sending out any sarcastic vibes today. In fact, my heart is quite softened. I realized today how truly blessed I am to have the parents I have. I've always been told that everyone is in your life for a reason. But that has never had much depth to me. I took the time today to think about my mom and dad, and the impacts they have had on me. I was overcome with emotion when the faces of these two angels came to my mind.

My mother, Julie Nash Reeves, is a literal heavenly being. Never have I known someone so selfless. She's loving to everyone, despite the way they treat her, and that's something I severely envy. She had her ear drum blown out when she was 7 years old, which left her half deaf. And yet she is one of the most talented pianists I've ever had the pleasure of hearing. She has been my crying shoulder, my partner in crime, my co-conspirator in cross word puzzles, my comforting light in the dark, my stand-up comedian on bad days, my maker of chocolate milk on good days, but most of all, my best friend through and through. Over Christmas break, she stayed up til 2 a.m. with me, while we talked in our Minnesota accents and ate tapioca pudding, because she knew I would be leaving the next morning. Now that's a true friend ladies and gentlemen. Her guilty pleasure is a song with a fly beat, and don't let her classical training tell you otherwise. Countless times did I come home from school and find her dancing like a fool in the kitchen. I love that about her. She has always allowed her children to pursue whatever hobbies they desire. For young Sammi this included baton twirling, finger painting, bird watching, and rapping Dr. Suess books. I thought I really had a chance with that last one. She has taught me to always look on the bright side of every situation, and to laugh my way through life. I love you Mom, and happy 29th birthday! Next years gonna be a big one!

My life wouldn't be what it is if it wasn't for my dad, Shawn Reeves. His life is centered on service. Service to his wife, his children, his friends and neighbors, and even those he doesn't know. His heart is overflowing with compassion and charity, and it shows in the way he treats others. He never fails in bringing me back a treat when he takes his 2 hour long trips to Costco. He always checks the fluids and tire pressure in my car whenever I come home to visit, to make sure I can make it back up safely. I don't think he understands how much that means to me. His punny jokes have led our family through hard times and happy times. Unfortunately, we have all adopted this sense of humor. My dad's motto is this: "We need more Cowbell." It's applicable to more situations than you'd think. His respect for the Priesthood has been such a treasure in my home. I never have to worry about asking him for a blessing, because he is always more than willing. Growing up, I was awakened every Saturday morning with the blasting of Boston, The Eagles, The Who, and whoever sings that weird "Toast and Marmalade" song. This meant time to spiff up the house or pull weeds out of the garden. He always made it enjoyable though. I've never heard my dad raise his voice or say anything unkind to my mom. I love the respect and admiration he has for her. What can I say? My dads a stud.
So Daddy, I love you with my whole heart. I can't thank you enough for everything you have done for me.

I was lucky enough to be the last kid at home, and got two years with them all by myself. Without a doubt some of the best times of my life. Hot tubbing, late night Del Taco, Owlz games galore, Jeopardy every night, and epic trips to California. I love you guys. You are the anchor in my life. I'm pretty sure I cried enough for the three of us writing this, so don't get all sappy on me :)