Merry Christmas!
As I sit down to write this year's letter and reflect on the past year, it still seems like such a blur. It has been a fast and full year with much to be thankful for.
The kids started school on a regular schedule, with no mask mandate. They have been healthy so far, and we have all enjoyed the routine of being back to school in a normal way. Anna & Brynn are in first grade and are in separate classes which is a first for them. They both enjoy their teachers, love reading, and their school work. Music is their favorite class as they love singing and dancing. They started a dance class this fall which they attend with their cousin Noelle. This winter they are looking forward to taking ice skating lessons for the first time. I don't think dad has them convinced to start hockey, but getting their feet under them on skates is the first step. They are sweet girls and love playing with each other at home (and with big brother).
Michael is in sixth grade, putting him in a new building in a new town. He rides a shuttle bus every morning and the bus home at night. He is also extra responsible as a big brother as all the kids ride the bus home in the afternoon and Michael stays with the girls until I get home after school. He is loving band at school, especially with more rehearsal time and performance opportunities that middle school brings. He signed up for junior high jazz band, which although means an extra early drop-off from Dad, he enjoys and I'm glad for the extra experience for him. He continues with his piano lessons and keeps improving each week. Scott is coaching his hockey team again this year, and Michael is one of the older kids on the team. He has already scored a goal this season and is getting pretty fast on his skates!
Scott continues to work for Glenn Waterhouse State Farm Insurance in Johnston and enjoys working with his customers, some of which he has had relationships with for over a decade. In addition to coaching Michael's hockey, he has been busy as the treasurer for the SAE house corps. He has had an important role as the house finally has a new class of undergrads who moved in this fall. It seems like things are stable for the fraternity, which is good news as we all want it to be thriving when our sons go to ISU. Scott also wrapped up his year as the Johnston Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year although he is still active with the chamber. I am proud of his dedication to his community.
We traveled this year to Kansas City for a long weekend at Great Wolf Lodge, Branson MO for a fun week full of family and boating, and lots of weekend adventures over the summer. Michael had an awesome week of overnight summer camp at the Y camp in Boone and he still mentions it weekly. I think he has the girls convinced to go with him next summer. The kids stayed busy this summer with golf camp, VBS, swimming lessons and soccer camp (in between boating and swimming!) . It's been fun to be back at Jack Trice Stadium for football games and we are currently enjoying the winning streak the Cyclone men's basketball team has going.
We are celebrating Christmas with Scott's parents and my family, then ringing in the New Year at home. We are looking forward to 2022-- especially the wedding of my sister and a new baby in the family-- and although we celebrated many joys this year we still remember our sweet baby Trace and my dad, especially during the holidays when their presence is missed the most. We hold faith in the promises God has given us.
"For unto us a child is born...and he shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
-Isaiah 9:6
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