So, it's clearly difficult to get a great picture of all the kiddos at once, but this was my one attempt at a Christmasy photo! Anyhow, we've had a busy year beginning with the birth of our sweet little Darien Elliot! AJ is 7 now and this year we have watched her overcome every challenge put to her as she completed first grade and entered second. She has had an eventful year, from losing her two front teeth to being thrust into the role of big sister to two very active boys. Keenan is now 3 and is as funny as ever! He never ceases to make Don and I laugh at his random comments and his obsession with Cars, Spider Man, Batman and even Robin. He knows about Robin because my husband has him watching 1960's episodes of the original Batman and Robin show! Darien is one! WOW! Fully walking and grabbing things off of tables, he is a joy to watch. He is our most cuddly baby and is quickly learning to talk. He has two siblings that never stop talking, so it is no surpise that he is getting a good dose of the English language every day! :)
The love we have for Alyssa, Keenan, and Darien will only grow more wonderful in our hearts as we embrace the daily joys and challenges of training them in thw way they should go!
As you might imagine, our adjustment to having three has been a roller coaster, but we know this is not uncommon. However, throughout all the many challenges of a hectic and busy household, we can still say that the Lord IS perfecting that which concerns our family!
Don has had a great year at Pepperdine, which included a promotion to Director of Intercultural Affairs and the opportunity to serve as an adjunct professor of Intercultural Communication. He also started his doctoral degree at Cal Lutheran. I can't say he has really been enjoying his doctoral work...but it's work and it's for a doctorate...can it really be enjoyed? It is a tall order to keep it all in balance (and that in and of itself is a work in process LOL!) but I am so proud of him for all his efforts. I sure couldn't do it! He manages to golf a couple times a month and this truly helps him cope with the responsibility of family, work, and school. He has three guys he considers his best friends - all of whom golf.
As for me, my involvement in various support systems for moms in the area serves to help me grow in this journey of motherhood and enhance my identity as more than just "MOM!" My organizing business has been extremely enjoyable as I have had many projects with various clients. Many of these dear people have become good friends. I honestly foresee only good things to come for this new year as the Lord is sending people who need what I can help them with!
I cannot write about this year without mentioning the significance of seeing the first African-American voted as President of the United States. No matter your political persuasion, I firmly believe that it was awesome to watch history take place in my lifetime. In a country with a rich and mostly negative racial history. In the US, it was not too long ago that it was univerally considered taboo be in an inter-racial relationship/marriage. It is awesome to see our progress. It is wonderful to see how one man seemed to transcend race for just a moment in order to bring people together. We know Obama is not perfect, but we truly lift him up in prayer as he steps into one of the most historic eras of all time. May God be with him.
God Bless all who read this blog and if you blog as well, please resend your blog site so I can add it to my page! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May He continue to look upon you, bless and establish the work of your hands and perfect that which concerns you and your family!
