Happy Birthday Mom!

I want to write a tribute to my mom on here, but what I think I'll do instead is copy down what I wrote in Felicity Jeanne's journal about where she got her middle name, my mom's name. I don't have time right now, but I will. For now though,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM! I LOVE YOU! (My mom and her mom)

**Added Oct. 10**
You'll all have to excuse me for being so personal and open here. Oh, and forgive my writing, this is copied verbatim from City's journal and I was just doing stream of consciousness! This is for you Mom, and I know you'll be embarrassed just like you were when we told you we were naming her after you. Love you.

Dearest Felicity Jeanne,

Writing your name conjures up special emotions. As I wrote "Jeanne" I was naturally reminded of your namesake--my mother. Let it be known to you that you couldn't have a greater honor. She is the closest thing to a saint that I know of. Many people think they have great mothers, and I'm sure they do, but my mom surpasses greatness. Anything I could think to say would be insufficient.

She is the happiest person I know and continually optimistic. She finds delight in the mundane and helps others to as well. She loves without prerequisites, she'll find good in everyone. She's every one's best friend--and she's sincere in being their friend. She's always there in times of need--and for a lot of people from all backgrounds. The last major characteristic I want to tell you about is how humble she is. I can't think of a time she's been offended. This I'm sure is part of her nature, but I'm also sure it's because she strives to be like our Savior Jesus Christ. She does that daily. On top of everything, she's just about the funnest person you could be around too!

I tell you these things so you'll know of the great heritage from which you came. As Josh and I were deciding on your name, we liked a few, but didn't mutually love any...When Josh liked Felicity, I was thrilled, but what about a middle name? Josh suggested Noel. I loved it for a middle name--"Felicity Noel" wasn't just catchy, but perfect if you were born before or on Christmas. It also would have sort of meant "Merry Christmas" we later realized which wouldn't been cool.

I kept trying to think of women in history who I respected and was impressed with or who'd done great things. I about hit myself in the head when I realized, "Duh, my Mother." She wasn't famous (at least not outside of where she's lived:), and she wasn't historical, at least not yet, but she was the obvious choice once I thought of her. There couldn't be another woman I'd hope you would aspire to be more like than my mom, Jeanne Ann (Gayman) Southam.

At the hospital we were still deciding between Noel and Jeanne and I was leaning towards Jeanne, but didn't tell Josh. He then told me he was leaning that way--so there you have it. Felicity Jeanne was named!

I also want you to know that I believe your name was inspired looking back. I have thought several times how fitting your name is. Felicity is such a cheery sounding and meaning name. It matches my mothers character too. It also sounds easy-going and sweet...

***

Here's to you Mom, I love you!