Belated Family Letter

Okay, I meant to send this out, then email it out, and well here it is on the blog...some may call it procrastination, I call it modern technology...

Dear Friends and Family,

As many of you know, we have faced a few challenges this year. Perhaps it is when faced with adversity that we are able to realize all the amazing things we have. They are not always recognized, but they are definitely there. In the spirit of Christmas, we’d like to share a few from our lives to yours.

Brad completed his MBA in March. In an effort to remain productive and keep up the study habits, he has begun working towards his CPCU, the highest insurance designation. A temporary setback, in October Brad ruptured his esophagus. Despite the seriousness of the injury Brad was in the hospital for only one week and did not undergo major surgery as most with this injury would have. Instead the tissue is repairing itself and with a diet of soft foods ice cream and follow-up visits, Brad is home and wrestling (gently) with the boys.

Three kids have been a small challenge in my life this year. Luckily, having one in kindergarten at least offers a reprieve from constant fighting. Somehow I am still able to finish project after project. I am also blessed to have Spencer and Jeni as well as Ben nearby this year to step in when necessary, like in October. It is nice to be able to trade off with Jeni as well as invite myself along for her and her sisters’ girls’ nights. However, I have found amazing support through our ward and close friends during trying times; that should not have surprised me, yet it did.

Aaron started kindergarten this year. He excels at all things academic and I am happy to have found an environment which seems to encourage this. He is a great help to me, almost always doing what I ask him to do with his younger brother and sister. Brad has implemented a new time out consequence in which Aaron must read a book to Ian or Lani when he gets in trouble.

Ian, our teddy bear, wants to grow up, but he feels he may miss out on the perks of being a baby. Despite his destructive tendencies, he loves anyone and everyone and shows it with his many hugs and kisses.

Kailani seems to learn a new word daily and already has dance moves we envy. She thinks her brothers are hilarious, but often makes her own trouble independently. She has a flair for the dramatics, but when you look in those blue eyes it’s hard to say no.

As we think about the past few months and look around our cozy home, it is impossible to ignore the blessings bestowed upon us. We hope this Christmas Season brings joy to your home as it does to ours!

Love,

Brad, Tara, Aaron, Ian, and Kailani