Ode To Belinda

Daniel here. Just wanted to take a moment to let everyone know why Belinda is so awesome.

1. She is easy to talk to. This is one of the things that made me fall in love with her. When we first got to know each other we would go on walks around Rexburg and it was always just so easy to talk to her, and I love her for it.

2. Amazing with kids. Belinda has a degree in preschool education, but I don't think that's what makes her so good with kids. This is an ability that she was just born with. Kids are naturally drawn to her and trust her. When it takes days for some kids to warm up to others, Belinda can become their best friend in a matter of minutes.

3. Hard working. When Belinda was a kid in South Africa they had a maid that cleaned their house for them, but somehow Belinda still learned how to work hard. I can't say how much I appreciate the hard work and sacrifice that she has made for us while I am going to school. Our first year of marriage she even went to work on the Rowley's farm, and as any Allsops know this is definitely hard work. She has continuously had a job since then, often working two jobs. I know she does this out of love, and I love her for it. I can't wait for the day when she can do whatever her heart pleases.

4. Patient. When we first got married I thought I had 2 years left of college . . . I was wrong. It was closer to 3 1/2 and Belinda has been so patient with my schooling. Now I'm in optometry school and we only have just under two years left. We both can't wait to be done! Thanks for Belinda, letting me focus on schoolwork. I know sometimes you've felt alone and I appreciate so much your patience. It's only a matter of time before you will no longer be a widower of a student.

5. Smart. Belinda is really good at thinking about solutions to problems. We'll only have a couple of things in our pantry/fridge and Belinda can think of an amazing dinner for us. At Midtown Eye Care, where she works, she learned everything so fast, and I know that the doctors there really appreciate everything she does. She has a way of solving problems that really amazes me.

6. Talented. Belinda plays the piano, is the chorister for our ward, learned to crochet in a day, can sew whatever she puts her mind to (she reupholstered our chairs), ran a half marathon, speaks Afrikaans, designs our blogs, and is a great organizer in many many other ways.

Belinda, I love you and you mean the world to me. Thanks so much for everything you have done for us. I can't wait for the rest of our lives together. You rock my world!