Happy Birthday Sam

Lots of loved ones celebrated birthdays this week and all are special in their own way.  Today is my niece Sam's turn.  Sam is as special as it gets.
As documented here before, I didn't spend enough time with her in her younger days.  Ironically, I started getting closer to her once her family moved to Houston (TX) several years ago.  I am so grateful that she allowed me back in her life.
She's such a great person.  We share a passion for sandwiches from Texadelphia.  I have enjoyed watching her play volleyball.  We have even occasionally ganged up on my other sister (her aunt) Nancy in some good-natured ribbing.  I really have enjoyed watching her grow into a beautiful young adult.
Today is her time to shine.  Happy birthday Sam.  I love you lots!

Sam Parker and me in Mokena, IL-December 2010.