The Christmas Update

Merry Christmas!

I didn't get around to doing Christmas cards this year so here it is.

As we move into the very end of the year, I'm reflecting back on the year we've had. It has been a good year! There have been some sad and hard moments, but that comes with an entire year.

Josh is now six and in first grade. He is being homeschooled by me full-time and is loving it! He has stepped into his role as the man of the house and is extremely helpful. His personality is still loving and sensitive. He adores his siblings and is quick to offer help when he sees it's needed.

Jonathan is now five and in Kindergarten. He is also being homeschooled full-time by me and loves it even more than Josh! He's constantly asking if we can do school. He is very affectionate and loves his mama. He has an adoration for trains that can't be beat and knows more about them than most people I know.

Rosalie is two. She is a sassy and extremely strong-willed little lady. While being the only girl in the family, she can definitely hold her own with her brothers. She loves butterflies and kitty cats, along with everything girly.

Elijah is one. He is coming into his own growing personality and is getting quite the toddler temper tantrum when he doesn't get his way. He's still blonde and has curly hair.

Caitlyn is busy with four children, many animals, and keeping up with the house. She is homeschooling the boys and loving it so much more than anticipated! She's working hard to keep a normal lifestyle while Matt is away and making the holidays magical.

Matt forward deployed to Japan in the fall and will be gone for two years. He is stuck living on the ship that 7th Fleet is attached to while there which is unfortunate. He is enjoying exploring around Japan in his free time and eating lots of sushi and ramen. He had a class in Tampa, FL the week before Thanksgiving and was able to take the week of Thanksgiving off to spend with us in Georgia. He will be coming home for Christmas next week and will get to be here for one week.

Caitlyn and the kids just returned from a trip to Georgia where they spent a month and a half with Caitlyn's side of the family. It was a much need distraction from Matt being gone.

Upon returning home, it is go time for all things "Christmas". Santa pictures have been done, gingerbread houses have been done, and now just cookies and fudge need to be made. Presents are under the tree for the first year since having kids and no one is messing with them!

We wish you all the best Christmas season and New Year! We pray that this next year is filled with joy, love, and fun! Merry Christmas!