First of all, Julia didn’t want me to write a Christmas letter. Truthfully I didn’t really want to do it either. We have sworn for years we would never get to that point. No ill repute to those who do Christmas letters. We just didn’t ever want to get to “that” point. You know the “you are too busy to communicate with our family and friends on a regular basis, so you cram it all into one never-ending letter at the end of the year” point. Well we are there. Now that our kids have lives of their own too it is a non-stop adventure. Julia also worried that it would become one of those “bragging” opportunities for me. Can you imagine she was worried about ME bragging? After several lengthy discussions we eventually compromised. Amazing how easy that has become after 17 years of marriage. She finally consented and I have been given the green light to put this blog site together so that we can share our stories and pictures with our families and friends, sadly many of whom we so rarely get to see. The beauty is we’re not forcing all of those on the Christmas card list to the outrageous stories of considerable careers, phenom children, & jet-set travel. Those who choose to read of our tales will continue to love us no matter how outlandish and self-indulgent this discourse. Look for the links that direct you to other web sites for additional material (recordings, video, etc.). Just use your “back” button to return to this page.
This truly has been a most amazing year for us. The boys continue to grow and most of the time make us proud. It certainly has been a busy year. There is of course the usual, work, school, vacation. All of which were mostly successful. I'm still trying to figure out where all the time went. I thought I would put this section together by person. A sort of a year-end summary. You know like the self-evaluations we have to do for the boss. Here goes!
Nollie....
- Began the year with his first CD recording project. Crazy but fun! He and his choir recorded a collection of folk songs & spirituals as part of a year long fundraising effort.
- The highlight of his year culminated with a 10-day concert tour to China followed by a performance with our local professional orchestra. Check-out the link below to the blog for more details.
- This fall marked the Centennial of Jane Froman's birth. The college hosted a major celebration with a tribute concert. It was a real success & great fun.
Julia...
- Began year 17 at the University of Missouri! Only 8 more to retirement!
- Was promoted this fall to lead teacher in the infant/toddler program & taught her first college-level coursework. I think she enjoyed it.
- Spent a long week-end in Chicago at a conference with out the boys. Yippee!
- Continues to enjoy her work at church (Sunday school teacher, children's ministry committee).
Logan...
- Started the year in Upward Basketball.
- Survived the first year of Middle School (Band, Choir & Gifted Program) "Not sure mom & Dad did!"
- Had the lead (Horton) in the TRYPS production of Suessical the Musical. Check out the pics in the slide show.
- Was drafted as the starting center for the Columbia Colts, Columbia's only traveling/competitive football team. Not such a great season! Oh well, builds character! Right?
- Auditioned for and got a supporting role of Sean Ryan in the Hollywood film Saving Grace directed by Connie Stevens. It was a real trip for ALL of the family. Especially Dad! Keeping our fingers crossed all goes well and looking forward to the Hollywood premiere next fall.
- Generally driving Mom & Dad nuts! Hey, He's 13!
Carter...
- Started the year in Upward basketball.
- Survived a rough third-grade year at Parkade elementary school. His teacher said He talked too much. Has she met his dad?
- Had a leading role (the mayor of Whoville) in the TRYPS production of Suessical the Musical.
- Continues weekly piano lessons. Sometimes it's fun.
- Had a great year of tackle football on the Packers! He finished the season 2nd in his division. All those years of Logan beating up on him have paid off!
- Is having a GREAT 4th grade year! His teacher doesn't hate boys who talk too much and can't sit still!
Our Family...
- Finished the basement! We added a family room/entertainment area, bedroom and bathroom. Wow what an expensive mess.
- Celebrated Mom's 40th birthday with friends & neighbors!
- Spent Dad's birthday & Father's Day on vacation in Estes Park, Colorado.
- Enjoyed a long weekend in August at the Lake with the Hong Kong Paulsen's & Julia's Dad & Marti.
I don't know about you but this list makes me tired!
We are truly blessed. Great friends & families. We miss you all. Let's be better about making next years stories together. Merry Christmas! God Bless!
