The End of the Year

I always get a little sentimental at the end of the year and feel the need to write up a Christmas newsletter. It helps me to be more mindful of the good times and blessings of the year.

Ryan: Ryan has had a very eventful year. He became a High Priest in March and changed jobs in May. He loves his job. He really enjoys working for a Medical Company. Something about doing good in the world, and something about not having to be in touch with his feminine side. No more crafts and no more pink. Ryan has been traveling more the last half of the year. He likes it but I really miss him. Ryan got a new calling today. He moved from being the Ward Mission Leader to the 1st assistant in the High Priest Group. We will have to wait and see what the new calling entails. My guess is busier Sunday's and less busy Thursdays'. Ryan is still an amazing artist and creative guy. He is the coolest one in the family which is evident in the fact that everyone wants to sit by or on him at Church.

Brooke: One thing I've learned over the past year is that life has a way of getting busy. I guess chasing around 4 growing kids will do that to you. I love to spend time travelling with my family. We got to do a few more road trips this year and I loved every minute of it. Sometimes I feel that I struggle to find my own identity in the middle of raising a family... but I wouldn't trade it for anything. I love to see my kids grow and to see each of their personalities develop in their own independent way.

Anikka: Anikka is growing up a little bit each day. She is starting to develop opinions in everything. It has been great to watch. She is in 5th grade and doing very well. She has been getting straight A's. She did a sports camp over the summer and really enjoyed volleyball and tennis. She also played flute this semester and while she had fun, she is ready to move on to the next thing. She continues to be the best big sister that three little boys could have.

Bennett: Ben is such an obedient child. If we say "kids go get in the car," He is the first one there. Ben is developing his drawing this year. He is also a very visual learner. His report cards have been stellar! He is reading very well and loves math. He is even showing off his multiplication skills to his 1st grade class. Ben played tackle football this year. He had an okay time but really loved being a part of a team. We loved watching him.

McKay: Mac has been so funny this year. He just wants to have fun. He is in preschool and really loves it. He likes super heroes right now especially Captain America. He gets really excited about all things. On Christmas morning we came downstairs and Mac ran straight to Ryker's pile and said "Wow, look at what I got!" We said Mac that is not your pile, yours is over here. He turned to his pile and said "Wow, look at what I got!" He was just happy to get something. Mac has Charisma and we just love him.

Ryker: Ike really keeps me on my toes. He is such a Momma's boy and I am not really discouraging it. He loves to cuddle with me and will not stay in Nursery. We have not tried very hard to get him to stay. He is our last baby and it really is bitter sweet to watch him grow. He is into everything and is very stubborn. He loves Anikka, Ben, and Mac so much and loves to yell their names when ever he can. He speaks very well for a boy and is so good in the car which is such a great thing since we are in the car a lot. Our lives are totally complete with him in them.