Leopard Prints and Sushi

Happy Birthday, my friend. I can't sing it quite as well as you can, but I'll still try. Candy is so smart for setting this up because you are the first to give compliments but now it's our chance to tell you (and everyone else!!!) how fantastic we think you are and how much you mean to us.

My family has always thought the world of you. I remember seeing you on TV when I was little and thinking that you were the coolest, most famous person in the world. You're a trend-setter. When you say it's a trend, people believe you, which is sometimes kind-of funny too. I don't think I've seen you get turned down by media when we marched in with our Heritage Makers products and you told them it was the newest and greatest thing. I've always thought of you as a really strong person; someone who could accomplish anything they put their mind to, which has happened time and again in your life.

I remember before I moved down to Utah to stay with you and work at the office. My dad told me that just because I was moving to Utah and going to be surrounded by people a little more "worldly" than I was, he hoped I wouldn't change. Was he referring to you, Candy and Angi, or just Utah in general??? You and I had a good laugh when we were in Florida. I had come in off a run, and the only realistic option I had for footwear besides my running shoes were my sparkly flip-flops. I looked down at my feet and said, "Look at me, I've changed". Secretly my dad actually really likes your sense of fashion, which is kind-of funny for a farmer/rancher.

Some fun things:
1. Your attention span. I joke that there's a definite reason why the HM books are as short as they are.

2. Your efforts to get me into leopard print. When you showed me the furry, leopard print shoes you thought I should try on, I said, "Sharon, I may eventually wear fur, and I may wear animal print, but to do the fur and the animal print together is just too much for me." Well, you succeeded. And, you got Kristi into leopard print as well.

3. Walking through the airport a few steps behind you (not because I'm carrying your luggage, but because I can't keep up), and seeing all the people, men and women, checking you out. Even the ones MY age! Maybe it's the loaded down LV bag and purse they're looking at it, but I doubt it.

4. Our belly laughs on our fun trips together, my traveling buddy.

5. Your computer questions and questions and questions. Thank-you Candy for taking over!

6. Your two speeds - fast and stop.

7. Living together for nearly a year and realizing that we hadn't cooked a meal. Hummus, popcorn, and sushi don't count.

On a more serious note, you really mean a lot to me. I learn so much from you about patience, how to treat others like they are the most important person in the world, that anything is possible, and so much more. I enjoy every minute we are able to spend together, and I look forward to many, many more.

Love ya,

Lisa Nelson

P.S. With all this talk of fashion, I decided to post pictures of you in the morning eating breakfast by the pool in Arizona, and you working alongside all of us to package hundreds of our storybooking kits to ship all over the US. I wish I had the picture of you in your high heels standing on top of a 7 foot high pile of boxes, but this one will have to do.

From Steener

Sharon, on your birthday…

I met you in 1973

When you became a mentor to me.

I was a new teacher; you had a few years

Of teaching experience, to alleviate my fears.

Soon we were working together, a team;

Two women, building a dream

Where schools work with children and families

To better their lives together, with ease.

‘Dimensions for Living’ forged the way

Its legacy still impacting people today.

Through the next many years though we lived far apart

Our friendship was always dear to my heart.

While raising our families, we shared letters and smiles

That kept us connected across the miles.

With children and grandchildren we were so thrilled.

These blessings were part of a life fulfilled

Then your passion for storybooks began to ignite

And influenced others with a desire to write.

I joined your amazing, enthusiastic team

Your energy drew me into the dream.

Through my cancer treatments, you came, you cared

A challenging journey; one we shared.

Friends for 35 years; when I look back I see

What a treasured gift you are to me.

A colleague, a mentor, always there till the end

I am grateful that I can call you my friend.

“Gibber” you’ll always be to me.

Your love of life; the goodness you see

In others around you, always brings out the best.

I treasure the enthusiastic zest

That your sprinkle on everyone you meet.

You make us all feel special, that’s quite a feat!

And so Happy Birthday, my special friend,

To you, wishes of happiness and health, I send!

Happy Birthday, Sharon!

Big Hugs,

Carol Steen “Steener”

From Cy

I know I always talk to you in cliches but what can I say, they are all true. You REALLY are the best Mother In Law in the world. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better person in my life. You have always been there for me through all the ups and downs (and boy have there been some downs) and have always made me want to be the best I can! I know I still have a long ways to go but you and I both know I'm still trying hard and I have the best example in you to show me how to always be there for your family and how to take care of those who you love. So Happy Birthday and here I go again... to the most beautiful, wonderful, mother-in-law in the whole world!!!

(love the second favorite son-in-law)
CY

p.s.
When I got married I decided I would find the prettiest, smartest, most with-it girl I could - then marry her daughter. It worked!

Happy Birthday Sharon!!!

I can't believe it's been 7 years since you called to talk to the "activity director" at the assisted living center. I know it was meant to be. My life has been so richly blessed since I met you and became involved in My Family Tales. It has been an amazing journey, full of many miracles. Thank you SO much for believing in me. Your belief in me has given me the confidence to do things I thought I could never do! Because of you I KNOW that I can do whatever I put my mind to and that you will be there to support me every step of the way.

I have so many wonderful memories of the times we have spent together. You know it's always going to be a party if Sharon's there! All those years of working in the basement, the 'cubby hole', and sprinkler world never seemed like work. Thanks for inviting me to be a part of this incredible journey so many years ago. Your vision and leadership are inspiring!!! Thank you so much for everything you have done for me and especially for your friendship!

I hope you have a very Happy Birthday and get everything you wish for... remember, MIRACLES happen, you taught me that:)

Love
Heidi

Dear Bella,
"Thank you for giving me the puzzle book. I really like it and I really appreciate it. Maybe you can come over again sometime and make books with my mom and I. Happy Birthday!"

Love
Jace (age 4)

I Will Know I Have Made It...

Heard this summer at the Riverside swimming pool from my 30 something male friend - "Angi, Your mom is hot!" If someone can say that about me one day when I am your age I will know I have made it in life! :) What my friend noticed at the pool was not just your physical beauty but your aura. You look good because you are good. You have lived a life full of meaning and depth and passion and beauty. You have loved and will always be loved in return. You are literally that light on the hill that cannot be hid.

Heard this summer at my house from CJ's friend - "CJ, you are really lucky to have a Bella." His friend must have thought that a 'Bella' was something above and beyond a grandma - and he is so right. I will know I have made it in life if one day my grandkids look at me the was your grandkids look at you. They ALL worship you. They ALL feel as though they are the "special" one. You spoil them, yes, but more importantly you give them your time. You know how special they are and treasure your time with them. They will always know how much Bella loves them because it is ingrained in their soul.

Heard this summer at my book club from a friend - "Angi, you and your mom are really close." I will know I have made it in life when the day comes that my grown daughters want to be with me as often as I want to be with you. You are the first person I want to call always when I have news to share. Cy gives me a hard time because he knows I call you (and Candy) before him. :) I want your opinion in everything I do - If you give the thumbs up I know I've done good. I crave your compliments in fashion because you have got such style. You are always the best lunch date, shopping mate, pool buddy, etc... I know if you are in town that I will see you everyday and talk to you 5 times that day. You are the part of my life that I treasure. I will always know how loved I am because it is also ingrained in my soul.

I look back on all our years together and can sum it up by saying I am looking forward to all the years yet to come. Thank-you for being more than my mom.

I love you,
Angi

Pioneers Wear Prada

Okay - you know that movie, "The Devil Wears Prada"? Well, you are the farthest person from being associated with the devil - but fashion? Well, that's another story!

Sharon, you are an example of a modern-day Pioneer woman!

From your childhood, you have blazed new trails for good and where others would follow into lives of joy and eternal blessings because of you and your active integrity.

The past 10 years of my life have truly been blessed with you in them. You have been a Pioneer in education and leadership and then, with a dream and fervent decision to spend more time with your family, you became the Pioneer of Storybooking and moving Heritage Makers - and each of its wonderful consultants - forward into a life and future of hope, empowerment, faith, love, friendship and purpose.

I love how you stay true to always believing - and voicing your beliefs - in MIRACLES! I am inspired by you every time I talk with you and your friendship and leadership motivate me to be a better person.

I remember in the "early days" of My Family Tales, Candy and I would always say, when we were a little shy in the area of building a new business, that the "Mama Bear" would go in and "take care of her cubs" - and you always did. And I did not and have not thanked you enough.

THANK YOU SHARON!

Thank you for STANDING UP for what you believe in.

Thank you for showing us how to ACTIVELY reach for our dreams - and ACHIEVING them!

Thank you for being a HERO to so many!

Thank you for helping me DREAM again - and then helping me plan a way to reach those dreams.

Thank you for being a wonderful SUPPORT to me - it has meant more than you know.

Thank you for showing so many how to put FAMILY and FAITH first but to also be outstanding consultants, teachers, and other areas of life.

Thank you for being an example that woman can be FAITHFUL and FASHIONABLE too! It's okay! :)

Thank you for loving your FAMILY so much and for embracing TRADITIONS and creating new ones - you inspire me.

Thank you for being a wonderful "BELLA" to Connor and Ellie. You are so loved by them!

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHARON DEAR! HAPPY DAYS WILL COME TO YOU ALL YEAR!

(This is a "Happy Birthday" song from Primary - Sorry - I have Primary on the brain - but it's so true! I wish you every happiness, every day - you deserve it!)

Thank you for being a PIONEER in so many aspects of your life! We are all better for your work, your vision and your love.

Love you,

Chris - and family

"We love you Bella! Happy Birtdhay!"- Connor and Ellie

Choices

Sharon, I just wanted to share an experience I had while visiting with the bishopric and their families recently. I was sharing with them an impression I had while we were in Canada for our most recent trip. Many times when Candy and I go to Canada we have many discussions and thoughts of what might have been. However, during this particular trip I was impressed to think more about what has become rather than what might have been. I felt that we need to celebrate all that is good in each of our lives and celebrate the good choices our family members have made and its impact on our lives. An impression came to me that caused my heart to fill with gratitude for the choice of a young woman, years ago, who had the courage to choose to join the Church. Thank you for that decision and path taken. Because of that choice my life has been richly blessed. That choice brought me the most loving wife and the most precious and fulfilling life I could have ever asked for. It has brought me the joy of knowing fatherhood and what it means to be with my eternal companion. It has given clarity and purpose to life. Thank you for all you have done and all you continue to do with your life. Happy Birthday from your "favorite" son in law.

Happy Birthday to an Amazing Woman

From the moment I met Sharon I knew there was something special about her. She has an energy and a sparkle about her. You can't help but feel uplifted and happy when you are near her. When I first met Sharon, she ignited a spark within me. She saw something in me that I didn't even see in myself! She gave me the confidence and encouragement to try something new and to know that I couldn't fail. She is there when I need her and always has something positive to say. She was full of love, support, and sympathy a few months ago when I lost two dear family members within 2 weeks of each other. She was a shoulder to cry on and a friend when I needed one. She gave me the space and time I needed to recover and feel like I could go on - yet was always right there. I cannot put into words how much Sharon means to me and how much she has changed my life - literally. I'm sure she gets frustrated with me at times for my lack of belief in myself, but it doesn't show. Only the love does. It is because of her that I have already grown so much - and will continue to learn, grow and become what we both know I can become. Sharon, from the bottom of my heart - thank you. You are my mentor and my friend. You are someone I try to emulate, and WILL make proud. I love you dearly and I hope you have a WONDERFUL birthday!!!

Celise Salmon

From CC

How Old?

It depends who she is with.... If she is with me or Angi, and people know she's the mother (most people assume we are sisters) then that would have to put her at 30 something + childbearing age... so she can pass for 49.

If she is with Gabi, most people assume she is the mother.... or they better if they don't want to get a kick!


Stories:
#1: I know how she keeps her figure. When I was little she would always encourage me to get an ice cream. I happily agreed. Then she would have to have a little taste. This dieting principle was applied to meals and french fries. I always remember her having "a little taste" and thinking, "I wish she'd just get her own!"

#2: Early in our company me, Mom and Mary (our wealthy investor) were going to do a trade show to try to launch our new Storybook Kits. We had to carry the bulky kits from her Lexus to the showroom booth. She and Mary were in expensive designer shoes. By the 3rd trip I looked at them loaded down with the kits and said, "Can you believe it a I am with a Doctoral degree and a millionaire and we have become peddlers." They could barely walk they were laughing so hard.

#3: Teague: "What is Bella?"
me: "What do you mean?"
Teague: "Like is she my aunt or something?"
me: "No, she is my mother, that makes her your grandmother."
Teague: "Really?"

#4: One Thanksgiving we had family races after dinner, girls vs. girls, men vs. men, kids, etc. I won, of course, and my mom, gave it her all, but she ended up stumbling and falling in the grass and coming in last (and she doesn't like to lose to Angi). She got up and brushed herself off and said, "Trent, you are a physical therapist, why can't I run anymore?"
Trent pointed to her head, "Because you are 20 in here," then pointing to her body he said, "but your __ out here." (sorry, I have to censor age--I don't want cut out of the will).

10 Things I have learned from her:

1. You CAN wear heels with everything and anywhere
2. Hairspray is a staple
3. Life is to be enjoyed ("Life is what you make it, always has been, always will be." --Grandma Moses)
4. When things go bad call Dad first (just kidding...sort of)
5. You can do anything you put your mind to, especially with Mom on board... ie. Heritage Makers
6. Education is important.
7. Being kind to others is very important.
8. Husbands are great, but your sister and mom rule.
9. Blessings happen.
10. You are only as old as you think you are.

What I love about her?
I love that many years ago she fell in love, married my dad, and had a family (and I was born into that family). I love that she has been the best mother she could be (thanks for my car at 16, and for all the sacrifices you made for us). I love that so many people love her and for the reasons they love her (her kindness, example, etc.) I love that when I go somewhere with her, people are drawn to her and leave her feeling better about themselves. I love her testimony. I love that when you go to her house you don't dare eat the ice cream in the freezer. I love when she cooks for her family and that the two things my kids love me to make most (NooNoos and Ribs) she taught me how to make. I love that she is a fun and doting "Bella" to her grandkids. She is a cheerleader, the most optimistic person I have ever met. She is full of laughter. She is a dreamer AND a doer. She gives the best gifts. She has good advice. She "gets" me.

That's a start. I could go on. I will just end by saying I will never forget the lessons I have learned from her and I will be sure to pass them on to my precious daughters. We may come from a long line of "short femurs" and, thanks to you, we come from a long line of good and faithful women. Mostly, I love the heritage you have given me.

CC

Ode to Sharon

Ode to Sharon

There’s a gal who’s sweet and sassy-

Dressed to the “9’s”, she’s oh, so classy!

Who loves to sport the latest fashion,

Funky purses are her passion.

Shoes to match, she does insist!

Sparkling Bangles, she can’t resist.

A Doctorate in Education-

In Leadership, an inspiration!

She’s been a daughter, wife and mother.

Ten little ones call her “Grandmother”.

“Ups and Downs”, “trials and tears”,

Goals achieved and conquered fears.

If life’s a test, she’s made the grade!

Her friendship I would never trade.

So, as her special day draws near

I’d like to make one thing quite clear.

A “Milestone” Birthday I will “Toast”!

To Sharon, you are just “The Most”!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY.....and many more!

Love

Sidnie

From Choo

1. How old do I think she is?
Actually, I know the number of years she has tucked away under her belt, but a woman who will tell you her age will tell you anything. With that in mind, all of us should find out the type of face cream she uses and buy a case.



2. Stories:
No one has shopped until you shop with Sharon at the Garment District in LA. It makes a school of piranha during a feeding frenzy seem calm. Sharon and I decided to venture there one Saturday morning and we came across some poor, unsuspecting student selling knock-off Kate Spade purses. He didn't know what hit him. We didn't buy just one each, more like six at least, which entailed massive bartering between the three of us. I've never seen anyone's pupils so dilated in my whole life. Throw in a couple of suitcases (such a good deal) and we decide to call it a day...until we arrive at her swanky condo, wondering what would be the easiest way to haul in four suitcases and at least a dozen purses without making a few trips. Lo and behold, she spots a shopping cart in the garage probably left there by some debilitated senior and we throw the precious stuff in. But we can't let anyone see us doing this, I mean, we do have an image to uphold. Running like a pack of thieves, we push the cart into the elevator, hoping no one is around. It's like a game of cops and robbers...you get the drift. The elevators open to her
floor and by now we can't stand straight, we're laughing so hard. Then she
wants to bring this ugly thing into her condo!!!! What would Bruce say???? Well if she didn't have wet pants by now, I sure did. Unloading was the easy part, and Sharon returned the cart downstairs. It took a week for my sides to stop aching, but the laughing lines on my face are still there. It's a day I'll never forget.

3.Things I've learned.
Sharon's generosity is unlimited. She continually gives to her family, friends, community, church, schools, charities, and others on a daily basis; more than I'll ever know. But she does this without, without ever expecting a return - the giving is unconditional. This is part and parcel of her honesty, integrity and her love of life. Tough to do when the rug's pulled from under your feet; she makes that her problem, not anyone else's. She's taught me to be strong and how to push ahead - she'd never quit.

She's also taught me how to walk down a mall with your head turned sideways looking into a store without bumping into anyone in front of you. Definitely an art, takes years of practice and I'm privileged to be a member of this elite club. Sorry, we're not accepting applications at this time.

4. What I love about her.
Oh man, just so many things. She's the best friend anyone could possibly have and what's more of a bonus is that we're related. She is an extension of my thoughts, demands nothing, yet her petite frame carries the worries and concerns of those she loves. She's a classy lady with an incredible sense of fashion, beautiful, not pretentious and laughs from the bottom of her toes. Again, best friends don't come with description.

So Happy Birthday dear Boobkee, wish I could be there to celebrate the big day. Remember, it's just a number, but every new number needs a new outfit, so go shopping.

Big hugs to you!!!!!

Loads of love,
Elaine. (Choo).

From 9

Happy Birthday to my lovely, amazing, inspiring Auntie Sharon...

You have always been such a special person in my life and I know that everyone is always touched by the light that you have around you. You have an incredible gift for making others feel that their thoughts and ideas are important, and after chatting with you they feel they could go out and start anything and be the very best at it! Right from getting back on Dynamite, moving to Utah, going into education, and being an at-home-mum, you have been there with me and have given your support and I LOVE LOVE LOVE you for it!!

I hope you have the best birthday, Auntie.

Hugs from Nine, Xerx, Kashmira and Darius

Imagine...

Imagine someone who sacrifices their time, energy and talents to help others. Imagine someone who travels more than anyone. Imagine someone who supports missionaries with letters of encouragement. Imagine someone who always looks good! Imagine someone who knows Heavenly Father personally. Imagine a person who teaches with the spirit. Imagine a person who doesn't age. Imagine someone who brings out the best in others.

There is no need to imagine this person anymore because a person like this exists!

My Auntie Sharon holds all of these qualities and more. She is a woman of many talents--while her best talent is making other feel loved. I am so thankful for Sharon in my life and for the support and love she gives to me. She is my second mother and most importantly she is my example of how to live. There are no words to express my appreciation.

Lacy Joy

Happy Birthday Sharon!

Dear Sharon, Happy Happy Birthday on this special day. I am going back many times when we met at the end of 2005 in Washington. How lucky was I to have met you? I remember asking you several times: "and if I sign up, I would be directly under you?" I had no clue about direct selling, but I somehow new it is a good thing. And I knew already back then that you are special (hey and I loved your outfit!!! he he). You have been an incredible friend and upline for me the last years and I am so thankful for that.
Love, Bianca

Happy Birthday to my 2nd Mom!

Happy Birthday wonderful lady!

I hope you know how much you mean to me, and what you have done in my life. I hope you enjoy your day so much, and know how many people love you. If I can be 1/2 of the amazing lady you are, you are my hero!! (heroine)!

Thanks for sharing your story and dreams with so many, and for including us in this amazing JOURNEY!! I LOVE YOU!!

HUGS and Birthday wishes to my wonderful friend,

Wendy and family