Ok, so I was just wondering...is there anyone out there other than me who can't seem to pull it together this year??? I even got half a Christmas letter written, but didn't have time to finish it. sigh. As I reflect on 2009, one word comes to mind: Change. It goes as follows: In February, we welcomed Luke Thomas into our family and began our journey into parenthood. In April, Chad accepted an associate pastor position in Kansas. In June, we moved 1000 miles from Cleveland to Hutchinson and Chad began his position at the church, as well as his new vocation as a plumber (with no prior experience, by the way). In August, we made 2 offers on two houses and didn't get either of them. In August, I also started back to work part-time at a new job working as a speech therapist at a school (very new for me since I'd never worked in a school setting before). In September, I joined the women's ministry team at church and started leading a Bible study. In September, we also made another offer on a house and got it! We closed on the house in October. In November we moved into the house after numerous hours of painting and fixing. Which brings us to December, when we had a broken down water heater, and we still have plenty of unpacked boxes, and a bathroom project in the works, complete with a toilet in the guest room and the sink and vanity in the living room. Now that I look back at this crazy year, I don't feel so bad about not sending out Christmas cards, because really, it's a miracle I'm still sane. Here's to hoping for a less eventful 2010. And maybe I'll even get a little more organized. I did get a label maker for Christmas after all. From our hectic home to yours, we wish you a (belated) Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
To the hottest husband around! I gotta say his birthday is not at the most ideal of times, since it often can get overlooked in the midst of crazy holiday happenings. But I'm here to say he is a wonderful, selfless husband and father. He works. Hard. He is passionate about helping people. He is discerning and wise. Here's to hoping Luke grows up to be just like his daddy. Happy Birthday, my love.
Luke visited the zoo for the first time in October. Even though I'm way behind in posting them, the pictures are too fun not to show anyway. My parents went with us and it was a perfect fall day to enjoy the outdoors!
I think Grandma and Grandpa enjoyed themselves as much as Luke did!
Do to others as you would have them do to you. ~Luke 6:31 When I first said this verse to Luke he was quiet for a little bit and then asked, "What's Adam 6:31?".
Adam's life verse: (and Luke's current memory verse) Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. ~Joshua 1:9
Luke's life verse: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and He will make your paths straight. ~Proverbs 3:5-6
Our marriage's life verse: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ~Ephesians 4:2