Friday, July 4, 2008

Happy Birthday, Tim

First of all, happy Independence Day! I discovered this poem just a few short years ago in a Washington Post paper. I love it, and think it's so appropriate for today.
Happy Independence Day!
I love this poem by Robert Frost, which was given at Kennedy's Inauguration.

~ The Gift Outright ~

The land was ours before we were the land's.
She was our land more than a hundred years
Before we were her people. She was ours
In Massachusetts, in Virginia.
But we were England's, still colonials,
Possessing what we still were unpossessed by,
Possessed by what we now no more possessed.
Something we were withholding made us weak.
Until we found out that it was ourselves
We were withholding from our land of living,
And forthwith found salvation in surrender.
Such as we were we gave ourselves outright
(The deed of gift was many deeds of war)
To the land vaguely realizing westward,
But still unstoried, artless, unenhanced,
Such as she was, such as she would become.

~ Robert Frost; 1874-1963 ~


Tim was lucky to be born on a day where every year his birthday is celebrated with a holiday, fireworks and huge amounts of food (hosing material)! We've had fond memories and great traditions of celebrating Tim's (and our nation's) special day. Tim is the best brother. He has a wonderful sense of humor, an infectious laugh, and is one of the kindest people I know. Everyone loves to be where he is. The kids think he is the greatest. Today Boo said, "Today's Tim's birthday? Next will be Marie and Emily's birthday? And then MY birthday!? I want a pink princess umbrella." So much for sincere birthday wishes...

We won't be together this year Tim, but we sure hope you have a GREAT day today! We love you!
"CHEESE!"


3 comments:

Trish and Matt said...

What are your plans for Boo's bday this year?

It's funny -- Goose is asking for rain boots and an umbrella also! I know our girls would be good friends if they ever got to meet.

Tim Hale said...

Ames - thank you so much! What a kind birthday gift to write such things. I love you guys.

Sarah said...

Happy Birthday Tim! Lucky guy to have always had birthday fireworks.