In Memory of Andrew T. Britton-Mihalo, My Uncle, My Friend, My Hero

             I recently lost someone very close to me. My uncle, who was more like a big brother. His influence has made me into the person I am today. Green letters, for the Green Beret that I loved and looked up to. Andrew had a light about him. He drew people, like a light bulb draws moths. He was kind, loving, and helpful. Not to mention, a hero. He fought for our country; for the freedom of others.

Andy and Me!

            I have learned many things in life, and I can honestly say, that I learned most of those things from Andrew. He taught me how to climb a tree (in result, you couldn't get me out of one), how to say cinnamon, how to shoot a gun, how to play video games, that its not ok to run around naked, the importance of being on time, how to stand up for myself, how to wrestle, the importance of family, how to gut a fish, how to choke a dog (if it ever attacked me)... don't ask,
to never marry a lazy man, to run as fast as I can when he had a booger, to serve the people around me, that chemical dusters burn, to never feel safe when its too quiet (I can't count how many times he's scared me), that its good to be frugal, to have confidence, that snorting soda hurts, roller coaster rides really are fun (especially sitting next to him), that some people say things we are not allowed to say, that I need to do the right thing even when no one is looking, that constantly switching lanes lets you know if someone is following you, that mean girls are NOT attractive, that life is worth living, and that it is FAR too much fun to take him to a dance performance! Along with a lot of other things. You can say that he pretty much raised me. He took me everywhere, and together, we would find some sort of adventure to be had in teeny-tiny Simi Valley.

            Andrew was someone I could always depend on. No matter what I did, he would always love me. His opinion was the one that mattered most, in anything! In fact, it was he who talked me into accepting my mission call to Northern California. I was upset at the fact that I was called to the same state I lived in. He told me how proud he was of me, of my decision to serve, and that I should accept the call. It made all the difference, and it meant the world to me. I could go on and on about everything he's done, and who he was. But I'd rather point something out instead... it'll take much less time than the other option.

I Love You Andy

           I have been talking about him in the past tense, when I should be talking about him in the present tense. Yes, my uncle Andy has died, his body will be buried; but his spirit, who he is, LIVES! Because of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, I know that I will see my uncle again. I know that he is learning about the gospel and having an even greater understanding of the work that I am doing here on Earth. And even though I miss him terribly, I know that he is still so very proud of me.

           I am grateful for the knowledge that I have today. For a prophet who receives revelation for the world today. And I am eternally grateful for the time that I was able to have with Andy, and the Plan of Happiness, that allows me to one day see him again. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, AMEN!

Andy with my dog Poopy

I was really jealous of this pic

My first rollercoaster ride, he convinced me to go on.

Andy with wife Jesse

Andy and Me!

At his graduation, that's my head...