Happy 20th Birthday!!!

Dear Brandon,

For your birthday, the Joedaddy and I would like to take the time to share a few things with you. {You can hardly contain the excitement, right?}

Buckle up, you’re going for a ride!!! Just kidding.

Although it is not commonly practiced today even among Christians, when seeking courtship with a young woman, a gentleman or “suitor” would ask the permission and seek the advice of the young woman’s father. While we certainly don’t want to imply the level of seriousness of your relationship, we do want you to know that in the short time that we’ve come to know you, you’ve gained the trust of the Joedaddy. This is not given freely.

So, Happy Birthday! Go on and celebrate!!

Seriously. . .

Your parents have done well and should be proud. What we’ve observed foremost about you is your determination to seek the heart of God. Nothing is more important. It is apparent that you will not settle for less than God’s best. Maintaining a 4.0 grade point average in college while working does not come easy for a young man. {Not that I would know firsthand. I mean, I’m not even a man.}

As a parent, I want nothing less than God’s best for my girls. This requires a dedication and determination that many Christians lack today. I’m grateful for your drive to succeed and I pray you’ll never settle. But before your head explodes, I’ll add that we’ve also had the opportunity to learn a little about your weaknesses. And that’s not such a bad thing. Time reveals these things in all relationships. I’ve taught the girls to know their weaknesses because we can be certain the enemy knows them. It’s apparent that you are well aware of yours and for that, I am so grateful. And I should probably add that we are also well aware that you’ve learned one or four of Courtney’s. You don’t have to answer that. Just a little observation. {wink}

You should also know that I’ve taught Courtney to watch how a man treats his mother. A lot can be said for that. So just so you know—she’s watching. And I think you’re safe there. You’d better be.

We want to thank you for taking the time to get to know us, for playing Apples to Apples with us in spite of Courtney’s poor sportsmanship and for paying extra attention to Sophie. It’s been our pleasure. It truly has.

Now. . .

having said that, I’d like to remind you that Courtney is of utmost importance to us. If you hurt her in any way, Joedaddy will cut you.

I’m just kidding.

Well, only a little.

I pray this year is your very best yet and that you grow richly in Christ. Our expectations lie only within His plans for both of you.

Happy Birthday!!!

We love you,

the Joedaddy and Mrs. Rena

P.S.

I’ve considered doing a blog series on “Courting Courtney.” It has a certain ring to it, doesn’t it? So if you happen to notice cameras or the taking of notes, just carry on, as you were. . .