HAPPY 80th BIRTHDAY!

Gene:
Congratulations on turning 80! I am really glad for this chance to review some of my memories with you. After all, I am your favorite son-in-law and you are my favorite father-in-law. I remember that it did not take long for you to stop calling me Wayne. Only a few months. And I remember getting really good advice from you -- like not wearing tennis shoes when I was pouring cement in Chuck's basement (at least you gave me the advice after we were done). Of course, I have had some good advice for you, also -- like wearing two shoes in the temple.
Seriously, though, I am grateful for the good advice you have given us over the years and all the support and love you have showered us with. You did a great job in raising your daughter and I am the beneficiary of that and will be grateful through eternity for that. You have taught me how to be a good grandfather -- laugh a lot and play with the kids and always have fun and be positive with them and help teach them the Gospel. I hope that I can follow your example.
One of the first lessons you taught me was when I was dating Becky. We spent the early part of a Saturday doing yard work and then the rest of the day at Indian Springs playing. Your principle is work hard first and then be sure to play. It makes for good memories of any experience.
Another early lesson is setting significant goals and then accomplishing them. You will always have a monument to you standing on the hill in Pocatello where you determined to finish with your own hands the house Becky had started. I really admire you for that.
I am grateful for your sense of humor, your spirit and your wisdom.
I hope that you enjoy celebrating this birthday and many more.
Love,
Tony