Imagine my brother's luck to stumble upon you (with the help of friends, and geography, and probably some fate) and have the incredible good forture to make you his wife! You are you beautiful, possess a razor sharp intellect and a sense of humor to match and hold your own with the sports that he has dedicated himself to for 25 years. The Gottlieb's have been blessed by your addition to the family (not to mention giving us some great babies!).

Jen and AnnaJen,

It’s wild that you are turning 40! It seems like just yesterday that you pinned me down until I convincingly shouted You’re King! Sometimes, even Kings appreciate being reminded of their accomplishments ~ here are 40 of yours to celebrate each year of your life.

1. Chose Barbara and Ken as parents

2. Learned to swim as a baby

Dear Jen-  Congratulations on your 40th Birthday!  It truly is a milestone.  I've had the privilege of getting to know you and love you for 26 of those 40 years.  It's been quite the process for both of us and one in which I'm proud to say we've negotiated quite well.

Dear Jennifer:

Dear Jennifer, October 7, 2009Blue Bandanas: Jen and Mom with blue bandanas

I can’t believe that you are turning 40!!  After all these years, it is still so easy for me to remember you as a child. 

“Hi Jennifer, how are you?”

This is the typical phone greeting that I make as you call the house. Your response usually lists all the places, activities and events that you, Ruby and Ben have experienced that day. “ We went here and we went there and they learned about this and that ……… and, now I am racing home to make cookies for the parent meeting I am going to this evening after I get the kids settled, make dinner, and give them baths.” 

Happy Fortieth Jen, may it be the best year ever, and many even more wonderful in the future.

We have so enjoyed watching you and Seth as you have matured into such caring and nurturing parents.  It has also been both a pleasure and an honor to have you be a part of our family.   We treasure the time that we share with you both and Ruby and Ben, and look forward to many family celebrations in the future.  

With Love and Best Wishes,

Ray and Karli

(aka Granny and Gramps)

Dearest Jennifer,