Raw Hot Dogs? Really?

A quick Simon Quote

"It wasn't me... it was this: Squeaky! Squeaky!"

Do you ever sit in front of your computer with so many things to say but no ability to put your thoughts into words? That is how I find myself right now. Our Internet is working again, so while I am a little late, like Big Brown, I will eventually finish.

There are so many funny memories of Simon. Do you remember how he would go tracting in the back yard? He would knock on the back door and say, I'm a missionary and I'm here for dinner. I can still recall my disgust every time mom made hamburgers for dinner and Simon would eat seriously like 4 pounds of beans. He would just keep putting more on his plate and he would smile at me. The whole apple juice debacle is an experience I'd rather not dredge up. Needless to say, our relationship started out pretty rocky. Could it be because Simon would throw himself to the floor, start to cry, and promptly, through cries of torment and pain accuse me of having perpetrated the crime? For years I maintained my innocence and was finally vindicated when I was blamed but not home.

Well, Simon, what started as a rough road has turned into a wonderful relationship and alliance that I have really enjoyed...ever though you did "Dear John" me on my mission. I thought it was funny that the girls didn't mention one of my favorite memories of you. Do you remember when the girls were gloating about how cool they were and then we tied Bethany's door handle to the door across the entry so they couldn't get out? I think that was a turning point for us...and its been nothing but sweet victory ever since...excluding church basketball which was nothing but weekly humiliation.

I remember thinking of you as a kid when I went on my mission, but as I think about you now, it is clear that you have come of age. You are a man for the way that you have overcome so many obstacles. I think of your perseverance and I just think of Lt. Dan sitting in the crow's nest during the hurricane. Maybe you don't give the finger as much, but I think it's fitting. Your work ethic is uncommon. Your patience is seemingly unending. your humor is generally appropriate :). Your loyalty is unquestioned.

Thank you for showing me how to overcome obstacles and trials. Thank you for showing me that you can laugh even when things are tough. Thank you for honoring your Priesthood. Thank you for being my friend. I have had some really good friends over the years, but you have been a constant which at the time didn't seem like a good thing. Thank you for being patient with me. I love you very much. You can be my wing man anytime!