Slovacek Scoop

Today is my Dad's birthday. Last Friday was my Mom's birthday. I thought I would devote a little time to them this morning (True, I could call or email them directly-- but that is not my style).

My parents are serving a full-time mission in Prague for three years. My Dad is the Mission President and they oversee all the missionary work in Czech Republic and Slovakia. They won't be back until July 2010.Here is a little inside info on the dynamic duo-- the lesser known side of the Slovacek pair:

Mom- It took me a few years to understand why Mom was such a light eater in a family of big appetites. Then I began to see the signs-- the glove compartment chalk full of empty jelly bean packages, the Hershey's kisses wrappers stuffed in her purse. The truth was there the whole time: My Mom is a candy-aholic. Well, candy and popcorn.My Mom has a love for shoes and shopping. Now that she is overseas, I see just how deep her love of online shopping goes.

Mom loves my pug, George and of course, my kids. I know that she can't wait to come home and take my kids and dog shopping, where they can snack on candy and popcorn.

She is the most creative, fun, spiritual and real person I know-- all that and she has just a tiny bit of attitude that I seem to have inherited. Thanks Mom!

Dad- My Dad is fantastic at giving advice. He knows just when to be serious, but has no problem bopping you on the head and calling you a nincompoop-- when necessary. My dad is a people person and even though he has been gone for over a year and a half, I still have people tell me on a weekly basis how much they admire and miss him.Unless he was joking, or at least partially joking, my Dad never raised his voice in our home growing up. Although he does love to sing the BYU Fight Song at the top of his lungs and accompany it with a dance that can only be compared to the chicken dance.

My Dad called me by various nicknames growing up-- Kira Bira, Care Bear, Annie Bananie, etc. and was fond of giving big hugs.

Mom and Dad have what I consider to be the ideal marital relationship. They are real-- they disagree, bicker (particularly if a board game is involved), and poke fun at each other. They laugh and commiserate. It is clear to anyone who watches them that they are truly best friends. They created a very fun and happy household that I was blessed to grow up in.

Thanks for everything guys-- and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!