Our Christmas Letter

Merry Christmas to our loved ones! Our family is doing well and enjoying life. We hope that the same goes for you and yours.

Since we neglected to mail out a Christmas card and letter last year, I will share the most important event of 2011 in this letter. Our baby boy, Henry was born on May 16, 2011. He was born at 5:30 am, weighing in at 6 lbs. 4 oz. and was 18 inches long. We met him when he was one hour old. Wendy was given a hospital room and able to keep Henry with her until he was discharged two days later. Henry is now 19 months old. He is smart, funny, and advanced physically. Henry loves construction vehicles and knows all of their names. He also enjoys “cooking” with his toy kitchen and toy food. Henry is such a joy and dearly beloved by our entire family.

Last month, our family welcomed our 10th child into the family. Matthias is 10 years old and was born in China. Matt is doing great and blending into our family quickly. He enjoys reading, playing video games, legos, Star Wars and talking.  The boys were so happy when Matt joined the family, finally bringing the boy/girl ratio to an even number. Matthias has only been with us a month, but he fits in perfectly. We know that he was meant to be with us and we are grateful Heavenly Father sent him to us.

Bethlehem and Sahara are both Juniors in high school this year and have been working on getting their driver’s licences. They love computers (facebook, youtube, pinterest), shopping, hanging out with friends, listening to music and watching movies.

Ryland is in 9th grade and Kenyon is in 7th grade. They both love basketball and were beyond excited when we finally put in our basketball court and hoop this year. They enjoy all sports and feel like they should always have a ball in their hands. Ryland has really grown over the last two years and hardly ever manages to have clothing that actually fits.  Kenyon started playing the guitar this year.

Esther, Claire & Ezra are all in 3rd grade this year. Esther has become a good reader and was able to graduate from her special reading class a couple of months ago. She loves to dance and sing and play with Barbies. Claire loves to write stories, listen to music, play basketball, use her EasyBake Oven and play video games. Ezra is obsessed with Star Wars, legos and video games. He enjoys playing basketball and riding his bike.

Talley is in 2nd grade. She loves to dance and play with Henry. She is such a witty little girl and always makes us laugh.

Tim still has his record/cd business and Wendy keeps herself occupied with all things motherhood. Our home has never been more full of love, laughter and joy. We feel the influence and blessings of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ each day. As we strive to follow His example, He loves, guides and succors us. We celebrate His life this Christmas season and always. We pray that His loving influence will also be in your lives and with your loved ones. We are thankful for His promise: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” (Revelation 3:20)

We wish you peace, love and joy this upcoming year and always.