Sleumas

Family

Mom & Dad = Janie & Ron

*I grew up a very fortunate child with many opportunities available to me.

Involvement is a word I use strongly when it comes to my parents:

My dad has a quiet sense of humor and is ridiculously smart. He always helped me in the areas of cars, math, finances, critical thinking, etc. He none the less helps tie the loose ends of my independent life I try to lead and helps me from staying in '$' trouble. He truly helps me build character whether he realizes it our not. My dad has a passion for the outdoors, something I have grown to appreciate the older I get...our lake place in Ely wouldn't be as exciting if not for him. 'In quiet company' is what it is like to be with my dad...or one of the ways I like spending time with him...sitting outside on the deck watching a twins game. My dad worked very hard in his job and deserves all the time off he has.

My mom is truly wonder-mom. I look back and see how blessed my brothers and I were to grow up with a mom who was able to be home with us up through elementary. My mom was involved with everything in school and always took time to care about everything. She is funny and smart and pure of heart. She is so kind to others and is great at what she does (except knitting). She has truly helped me learn to give others the benefit of the doubt and to see things in different perspectives. We butted heads growing up (I am still growing) but she is always there for me and continually thinking of others. My mom has a gift for organization and planning...something I strive to have more of. My mom has also worked hard in her job and deserves all the time off she has.

With that said, as empty-nesters, I believe they are totally entitled to living the high-life and taking time for themselves. They have given their children so much and have asked for nothing in return ;)

BROTHER

The word 'brother' is used in many different ways. 

When I think of 'brother' I think also of the 2 names, Allen & Drew.

Brother: Allen 

Oldest older brother. Marine. Strong. Funny. Smart. Caring. Generous. Adventurous. Brave. 

*This is my 'big bro' the one who would roll around like a Sniper from the military in the front yard. Who would have staring contests with me until I cried. He would fish in the boat with my dad for endless hours talking about life and always converse with my mom and make sure she wasn't 'over-working' herself. 

*I am a lot like Allen, 'Allie' is what Drew and I always called him. One of the best compliments is, "You are so much like Allen!" 

*My heart breaks when I think of him, I smile and laugh when I talk about him, and the memories are so strong I revisit them weekly.

*Allie passed away 10 years ago. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like if he were still with us, and how I know we would be great friends. He would be so proud of Drew and I know his love and kindness would still be contagious. He never said 'goodbye' it was always, 'see you later'.

Brother: Drew

Younger older brother. Engineer. Quiet humor. Sarcastic. Out-going. Hipster. Athletic. Driven. Genius.

*Drew has the quiet-strongness that is similar of my dad. It amazes me at how humorous my brother is. He is that crazy smart person who is always reflective of his decisions...practical he is. Drew likes fishing and hunting, but is an engineer to the core. He relates to my dad expertly and respects my mom's opinion.
*I am always impressed at how professional he is at his work, but then how incredibly goofy he is too. 

*I have so much respect for Drew. We were 2-peas in a pod when we were younger...that was not apparent when we got older. Though people always thought we were twins. He is 18-months older then I am. With that aside, I can honestly say that Drew and I have grown closer through our college years and I enjoy his company.
*I am so grateful for a brother like him and proud of the young man he has become. Allen would give a firm handshake in agreeance (sp). 

*Drew moved to Chicago, IL. In July 2011 with his Wife, Katie of 2 years. 

Sister-In-Law: Katie

Older sister. Educator. Quiet. Soul-mate to Drew. Artsy. Maturely Childish. Smart. Driven. Stylish. Compassionate. Dear Friend.

*Katie is not only my sister (in-law), but is truly one of my best friends. My brother and Katie got married on July 3rd 2010 at Iowa State University. Katie and Drew are very much alike, but different all the same. From the moment I met Katie, she has fit into the "Samuels" family naturally and wholeheartedly.
*Katie quickly and immensely became my friend...something I have always dreamed about having in a Sister-In-Law. We are both very social, but also shy and quiet at first. It is ridiculous at how much we have in common. I adore her!
*Katie is a very compassionate person and truly adores young children. She is a Kindergarten teacher (like me!) and is always on the ball with creative ideas and educational resources; something I truly admire and strive for. She has a respectful passion for learning and sharing her ideas.
 

With that said, as a young married couple living in Chicago...they are each others best friends and soul-mates to the core. These two have big dreams and I know that their dedication and passion will help drive those dreams.

**My the Lord bless them and keep them safe. I pray God continues to touch their hearts with His love and stir up the desires of their hearts.**