Merry Christmas!
Can you believe it??? Another year is coming to an end. And what a year it has been for us. We’ve had our share of challenges and blessings, but I think more blessings than challenges. At this time of year when we ponder upon the great gift of hope in eternal life that comes through our Savior Jesus Christ, how can I not feel overwhelmed with joy over the blessings that are mine? And what blessings still can be mine? I think a feeling of gratitude best summarizes how I feel at the close of this year.
I think I’m most grateful for my family, in particular my fabulous husband. I think all who know Tom know how patient and tolerant he is. He would have to be to put up with me for 14 (almost 15) years. Tom works very hard to provide for the family, even working, what seems like, around the clock. If you consider his day job + gigs + freelance work, I think it all adds up to ‘round the clock work. Tom is not only dedicated to providing for his family, but he is dedicated to being a good husband and father. He makes an effort to help around the house when he’s home, just to make my job easier. Tom’s been known to bake several loaves of homemade bread, make the kids lunches, do laundry, clean the kitchen, make breakfast, dinner, etc. The kids love their dad because of the time, love and support he gives to each of them. We will sorely miss him over Christmas while he travels through South Korea entertaining the U.S. Troops, but will look forward to spending part of the holiday season with him when he returns Jan. 2.
Heather, age 1, is progressing slowly. She has therapy twice a week and is now able to sit up well, turn around in a sitting position, clap her right hand with her left, and can occasionally hold something in her right hand. We’re grateful for any progress that she makes. We’re also grateful for the “First Steps” program that offers free therapy to children under the age of three, and they’re fabulous therapists. As you can imagine, therapy twice a week could normally cost a fortune. Heather has obviously inherited her father’s good nature, as she is very patient, tolerant, calm, and is a VERY good sleeper!
Camilla (6) is beginning to thrive in her 1st grade class at school. She had a rough beginning, but has since settled in. It seems that all of our kids struggle with some shyness in social situations. This is sort of a surprise to me as our kids aren’t shy at home, especially Camilla who never stops talking. I’ve enrolled Camilla in a dance class again and recently took her to see the Nutcracker. I hope that she develops a love for dancing because although she doesn’t realize it yet, she is a beautiful dancer.
Nathan is 13 and overnight has turned into a typical teenager. I guess what I mean by that is he’s never home. He’s always at a church youth activity, at a school football game, at a band practice, at a friend’s house, etc. When he is home, he’s either eating, playing on the Play Station, doing homework or sleeping. Sound familiar to anyone? If I were to choose to raise any teenager, however, I’d pick Nathan. He, like Heather, has inherited Tom’s good nature. Nathan is kind of quiet, but nice to everyone, easy to get along with, and confident. He’s following in his father’s footsteps and is becoming a decent saxophone player and a wiz at the computer.
Wes (10) is our Taekwondo-Man! He’s also our Drama-man! Since as long as Wesley could dress himself (age 2?), he’s enjoyed dressing up as some character from a book, movie, or his imagination and acting out a scene from the story. I finally wizened up one day and enrolled him in a drama class. I think both his drama class and his Taekwondo classes allow him the creative outlets that he needs. Besides Wesley’s creative mind, he has a very keen mind. Wes continues to surprise us with his academic test scores at school. He regularly scores in the top 99% for math and reading. Unfortunately he dislikes school and would rather spend time acting, karate chopping, or playing on the Playstation.
As mentioned before, I have a wonderful family to be grateful for. I’m also grateful for the educational opportunities that the Lord blesses me with. I’ve been asked to teach High School Seminary. I teach 12 fabulous freshmen and sophomore students every morning (Monday-Friday) at 6:30. I’m learning a lot about the Gospel through this opportunity and am hopefully learning how to be an effective teacher-especially with this age group. Thirdly, I’m grateful for the patience that everyone around me has as I continue to struggle with getting myself back in shape after Heather’s birth. I always feel so horrible about myself when I’m not as fit as I like to be. To some this may sound silly, but to me it’s probably one of my biggest daily challenges. Again, I’m grateful for the patience and support that everyone, especially my husband, gives me in trying to conquer this “monster.” I have great faith that with the Lord’s help, I’ll get it under control. “In the strength in the Lord, I can accomplish all things.”
Lastly, I’m grateful for all of you!!! Friends and family have enriched our lives in so many ways. Thank you for everything!
Love,
Tom, Michelle, Nathan, Wesley, Camilla, and Heather
