July 7, 2002

Dear Brieanna,

It looks like you are officially a teenager now. I apologize for not being able to send you a present, since I don't even know where to send it. In just 5 years you will be a legal adult. It's hard to believe. It's hard to believe that I haven't seen you in 5 years. Brieanna I miss you. I don't even know who you have become. My last contact with you was when you were 8 years old. I knew you for eight years and believe that I can somewhat extrapolate that, to have an idea who you are today. Our basic personalities don't change that much over time. When I knew you, you were a quiet and soft spoken little girl. You were sensitive, and kind. At times you were unsure of yourself. I imagine that now you are more confident. I think you are starting to figure out the things that you like in life, and the talents that are yours. You are are also probably starting to have a greater understanding of those around you, seeing both their strengths and weaknesses. Friends are also probably very important to you, at times even more than your family.

In just three years you will be able to drive, and work. In 5 years you will be going to college. This may be premature, but I would like you to consider going to school at BYU, here in Utah. Both your mother and I, as well as Melanie are graduates of BYU. BYU is a wonderful school, and it allows you to get a religious education as well. You will also associate with others who have strong moral values, and wont have peer pressure to do things that are wrong. Not to mention, you will have the opportunity to get to know the rest of your family here in Utah. I'm sure many of your cousins will be going to school here in Utah.

Melanie just performed at the Utah Arts Festival, and was able to sell some of her CDs. I was very proud of her. Of our two careers, Melanie's is the most important to me, because her Music is so beautiful and brings peace to people. I've been very busy this month, working 12 hour days. I did take off the 4th of July, and we went and saw the fireworks. The finale of the show was amazing, the sky was filled with fireworks and explosions.

Brieanna, I love you, and miss you. I pray that you will come back into our lives again, and be reunited with your family.

Love,

Dad.