Our Christmas Letter 2009

Another blogger gave me this idea and I just had to use it!  Since we I did not get our Christmas card done this year, I'll write it on here.  I really do have intentions of getting them out, but just don't seem to be able to find the time.  Plus, I still can't find my address book since our move. 

Now, I'm trying to figure out if I should do a chronological card and one that goes by person.  Hmmm...this is why I don't get letters done.  Here it goes...

Our beautiful young woman is 19 years old and is going to a Community College.  She is doing her generals right now and is going to major in Psychology.  Her and her boyfriend have been dating for quite some time now.  Josh is a great guy and we really do like him.  When she is not going to school, she can usually be found on the paintball field.  If she's not playing, she's can be found wearing black and white stripes as a ref.  I'm quite certain that her and the bf will both get roped into being "patients" for my mom's ski patrol tests at some point this winter as well.  She's just so beautiful and we love her so much. 

Simply precious is 12 years old and is in 7th grade.  She is a social butterfly and loves to be with her friends.  She is in Student Leadership and is well liked by her teachers.  She also sings in the HALO worship band on a monthly basis and has been learning to play the keyboard.  This summer she actually started riding the horses all on her own as well.  Something very exciting for Miss precious and not so exciting for her momma!  One other thing about her is that she truly has a servant's heart.  She is always wanting to help out at church whether it be helping with the babies or serving at the One-Way Cafe.  She also has a heart for the elderly and can often be found down the street at an elderly woman's home, raking or walking her dog for her.  She's just so sweet!  And she's turning into quite the beautiful young lady.

Our handsome son is 8 years old and is in 3rd grade.  He is more on the shy side but ever so sweet.  He is in cub scouts and really enjoys it.  I see an Eagle Scout in our future just like his grandpa!  He's very eager to earn his patches and belt loops.  I think we'll have a busy summer.  Our son loves to go up to the cabin and loves all things that have to do with outdoors.  He loves to fish, frog hunt, and just go on nature walks.  He is also the most observant child.  He sees things that most people don't even notice and he always has a deep thought to share.  It's very cute.  He has received comments from his teachers such as "he is a very respectful boy who always makes good choices as a 3rd grader."  That just warms my heart.  In addition to being very handsome he also has a killer wink that makes me giggle!

Pure sunshine is 6 years old and in 1st grade.  The first year with Bean, oops I'm no longer allowed to call her that, she is in school all day.  She seems to really like school and has made new friends.  Her teacher has also told us how sweet and respectful Hailey is.  Being that sunshine is the youngest of four, our baby, she is a tad  on the spoiled side.  She is a bright ray of sunshine and people are drawn to her.  Although she is very shy, she has her own way of interacting with people.  It just takes a while for her to get to know someone.  She is in her 2nd year of Girl Scouts and is a Daisy.  She loves Girl Scouts and really likes all the friends in her troop.  The thing about sunshine is that she is our compliant child.  She almost always does things right when she's asked and I only have to tell her once.  She will wake up and make her bed without being told too.  It's pretty cute as is she! 

Tim and Dave

Dave has started his own non-profit ministry, called Breakthrough Ministries.  The sole purpose is to end homelessness.  The unique thing about this ministry is that we are going out and loving these people where they're at and just the way they are.  We've met so many good people that are caught up in their circumstances for one reason or another.  These people live out in the open under bridges, in tents, under tarps.  It's unbelievable!  Dave is pretty passionate about this and was recently featured on Channel 4.  Here's a link to the video.  This is just the beginning and I'm so proud of him.  You can also view pictures and stories on their blog.  And a special thanks to Tim Walstead who is his partner in this ministry!

Me and Sara Groves

Me...well I'm still working at our church, which I love.  I'm now the Women's Ministry Coordintor and am working full-time.  The highlight of my year (at work) was working with Sara Groves for our Women's Gathering.  I have been spending much of my free time on Facebook reconnecting with old friends and making new ones as well.  I still try to scrapbook although time seems to elude me and well for those of you who used to expect homemade cards from me obviously know that it's been a few years since I've been able to get them out.  I suppose moving 3 times in the past 2 1/2 years has something to do with that!

Well, that's what we've been up to!  We wish you a Happy and Blessed New Year!!!