Happier Things : )

Okay, the election is over and we’ll see what happens. On to happier things! This Saturday Brendan and I leave to visit Ireland. We have a five day break from training so we’ll be flying up and staying with Tom and Tina and seeing a little bit of the country. All the Downeys that have been to Ireland: please e-mail us and let us know if there are any must-see spots around Tom and Tina’s house. We have just three full days to see whatever we can, so advice is definitely appreciated. Thanks!

Even more importantly, my brother James is turning 16 on November 6^th. This is a day he has eagerly waited for! I’m sure that he will celebrate his birthday in the DOT getting his driver’s license : )

From left to right: Johnny, James, Phil, Isaac, and Zach pose next to a cascading waterfall in the Colorado Rockies during vacation.

James is active in choir and football. He can sing like an angel, and has just made the top court for the Dowling Choir’s madrigal dinner (along with Phil), which is a big honor. But he also has an intensity that is perfect for football. When James is in the zone I would hate to be in his way. He’s hardcore and does all of the football training and then for fun he’ll run with his Cross Country friends who run six or seven miles a day. He is also incredibly intelligent and excels in school.

One of my favorite memories of James is that during high school and when I would come home from college, James would always wander into Laura and my room when we were studying. Then, while pacing constantly, he would talk and talk and talk…about everything! I have a feeling he could talk for days if he had the opportunity : ) That kid’s mind and body are always going a mile a minute.

When he was little, he used this creative energy to build block forts and houses. We thought he might grow up to be an architect, because he could play with blocks and legos forever and designed pretty cool things. Even in recent years, he has made and painted many elaborate models (mostly Star Wars) that look really good. Who knows where God will take him, but we know he’ll be successful!

I’m so proud of him. Over the past few years especially I’ve seen him growing up a lot in how he relates to other people, in controlling his intensity, and in learning how to be gentle and strong. He also has done a great job of picking friends that will push him toward God and that love the outdoors, sports, and have a great sense of humor. As I get older I realize more and more that the people you choose as friends have a huge impact on how you think and act (good or otherwise). James has chosen wisely in that area.

Finally, here’s James doing the Alligator Dance at Brendan and my wedding. I’m so happy that James and all my siblings are not afraid to be crazy and have fun (doing things that don’t endanger your health, just your pride). These are the classic things I’ll remember about James forever. Stay awesome James - happy birthday!

Love Always,

Rachel and Brendan