This is a red letter day in our family. It’s our oldest daughter’s birthday.   Jody Rose was named after my mother, who was named after her grandmother, so the name Rose is rich in family tradition.  And, yes, the name continued down to my granddaughter (the one born on my birthday), Madeleine Rose.  Today is also Laurie’s birthday, although she’s a few years younger than Jody.  Laurie is Dale’s widow and deeply loved in our family.  Birthday candles will burn bright tonight as we celebrate two of the greatest blessings God has brought into our lives.