Crystal Grant

   Dad served two terms in the Navy before settling down in Missouri, where he met my mother, Nancy Hedrick. She is the oldest in a family of nine and her parents, Johnny and Norma Hedrick, reside in Springtown, Missouri. Norma comes from a very large family, and at the age of twelve, Johnny quit school to help raised his younger brother when their mother was killed in a car crash.

   There is a fourteen year age difference between my parents, and an even greater contrast in their upbringing, but their marriage has lasted for over twenty-six years now. Although very different from one another, both bring balance to their union and the family with their unique qualities and personalities.

   Richard is hardworking, dependable, and just a bit old-fashioned! A talented musician, he plays the base guitar at our church and writes, as well as sings, beautiful songs. He is always ready with a word of council for his kids, often drawing from his knowledge of the Bible. Respected by all that know him, he tries to instill in his kids the values that have proven true by him--honesty, courtesy, consideration, responsibility, and wisdom. Of course, he also has his hobbies, and none rank higher than watching a good ol' western!

   Nancy is optimistic, energetic, and outgoing. She loves to laugh, loves to talk, and loves to enjoy life. A big tease at times, her kids are often prime candidates for a practical joke! Down-to-earth, Mom is very friendly and is always finding little ways to reach out to those around her. She worked hard to ensure that her children received a solid education, sacrificing much of her time to do so. And behind her amiable disposition, there is a serious mother's heart that prays for her family.

   When I was four years old, my brother, Richy, joined the family. The very next year, Holly was born. The three of us were an inseparable team! We spent hours together, making up stories and adventures to play, talking of things important to us, and just being silly. Believe me, when we get going, there's no stopping us!

   My brother is an amazing artist and creative mind. He has big dreams for the future and I look forward to seeing just what he will be able to do with his life. I depend on him quite a bit when I am trying to come up with new ideas.   

   I consider Holly my best friend. Although there is a five year age difference, she has always been able to understand me, even when we were very young. With her unique wit and strong character, she keeps me going when I get down.

   I was seventeen when our parents surprised us by announcing that there would be another member of the family joining us. Emily Dianne came into our lives, a bundle of energy and independence. From the start, she wanted to do everything that we did, and I found that I had a second shadow. She is now eleven years old and ready to take the world by storm!

   Families are easy to take for granted, and I am certainly guilty of that. I guess that is why I wanted to honor them a bit. They have done so much for me. I know that I would not be where I am today if it was not for their support and love.