A Tree of Memories #5

Snowflakes

This is one of many beautiful snowflakes that my Grandma Burt crocheted for me. Each one is different and unique. Just like the real ones. But, these are better because they can hang on my tree, they don’t melt, and they will always remind me of my sweet Grandma, Maxine Hobbs Burt. Today just happens to be her birthday. Happy Birthday Grandma! She is 85 today. Ever since I can remember, I have received a phone call on my birthday, and the first thing I hear is a voice singing:

“Happy birthday to you,

Happy birthday to you,

Happy birthday dear KaraLyn,

Happy birthday to you!”

It’s my Grandma Burt. And it always makes me smile. I could go on and on with memories associated with this wonderful woman. She was ever present in all those growing-up years. My grandparents lived in Parker in a big, orange brick house with a pond, and lots of space to play. (They have since moved to a home in St. Anthony.) Much of my time was spent there. I have fond memories of sleepovers with cousins, jumping on the trampoline, Thanksgiving dinners, Christmases, fishing in the pond, ice skating on the pond, canoeing and paddle boating in the pond, feeding the fish, floating in the canal, Easter egg hunts, family reunions, hanging out on Sunday afternoons, and card games. My mind is rich with memories.

Today, I would like her to know how much her life has blessed my life. I always knew she was a woman of strength, conviction, and testimony. It showed in her actions and example, and still does. She is a woman of God, and personifies the 13th Article of Faith: (Just substitute “Grandma Burt” in the place of “We”.)

“We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul - We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."

I couldn’t say it better myself. This is my Grandma, and I feel so blessed to be her granddaughter. And, for this amazing lady on her special day, I wish to say (or sing):

“Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy birthday dear Grandma,

Happy birthday to you!”

Love you Grandma Burt!

(This picture was taken the summer before my sophomore year of high school, 1993. Our family traveled to San Jose, California to visit Grandma and Granddad Burt on their mission.)