Merry Christmas 2018!
I deeply apologize for the 2nd year in a row not sending out Christmas cards/letters. I just haven't had the extra time or patience to do so. I haven't been on my blog in forever and almost forgot how to post anything. I hope you all enjoy.
The past couple years have brought some trials as is life. But through it all we have continually be blessed and the outpouring of love and support from those around us have made burdens lighter. We are most grateful for our Savior and His divine hand in our lives and that is really all we can ask for.
A short blurb for each of us.
Nathan's business is expanding which brings more travel and more stress. But blessings all the same. He hiked the JMT trail this summer/fall for his birthday that was in May. He spent two weeks with bare minimums to survive the Yosemite mountains. It was quite the accomplishment I must say. He also co-runs a flying club that people rent planes and learn how to fly. Our nephew Brenden is one of those instructors who made an emergency landing this year on the freeway successfully. It was controversial for a bit but after investigation it brought him fame and more members to the club. It was a pretty impressive and miraculous landing that could have ended a whole lot differently. Grateful for guardian angels. Nathan continues to enjoy running, swimming, biking and flying.
I am in my second year of substitute teaching for CCSD. I started the year as a long term substitute teaching 5th grade at Sophia and August's school. It last for 4 weeks with some hiccups along the way. They eventually hired another teacher who has been a great asset to their school. I enjoy seeing the students I taught as I go back periodically to substitute there. I joined the Red Mountain Choir in October and it has been fun having something for me. We start rehearsals again in January for our Spring Concert in March.
Natali is almost 16. Before the end of the winter break she hopes to be holding her learners permit. Nathan says he is going to teach her, but I am pretty sure because of timing. I will be the one teaching her. She is still active in band and had an amazing Marching Band season this year. She made the Regional and District Honor Bands here in Las Vegas/Henderson. Her district band performs the end of January. She will be attending the D day celebration in June in Normandy this year. She will have the opportunity to travel to Paris, Normandy and London on this once in a life time trip.
Noah is taking French this year and loving it and was also told if he continues they will be taking a trip to France in the summer of 2020. He is saving up and looking forward to that amazing opportunity. He is also taking a graphic arts class and video productions. Both of which he thought would be more exciting...maybe he'll take band again next year. He loves hanging out with his friends and reading books. He spends a lot of time in the pool and plans (along with Natali) to try out for the High School Swim team this spring.
Kathryn entered middle school this year and is taking band and learning the clarinet. She is enjoying her time with friends. She can be found cooking and baking and now that her health is improving, plans to get back in the pool. She can always be found reading one or multiple books at a time. She loves to draw and do origami. And loves to hang out with her best friends Melanie, Mona, and Kate. If you didn't know she now prefers to be called Kathryn. She also turned 12 and excited to finally be in Young Women's.
Sophia is still our little spitfire, socialite and fashionista. She can be found wearing some of the most unique and interesting color/pattern combinations. Now, if only I could somehow get her to take care of that wild and crazy hair better. She has the biggest imagination and is always talking to her stuffed animals or dolls, or the random imaginary person/creature in the corner. She also loves to create things in the kitchen. But she is most often found in the family room dancing to Pandora music or Youtube music and watch out, she could do a random cartwheel at anytime. (grocery store, mall, sidewalk, church.) So far I don't think she has done one at school. She also loves to roller skate and play with her friends.
August is constantly with his friends, young and old. He has this magnetic personality that brings in all ages to play computer games, or tag, or bean bag/pillow fights. He loves stuffed animals, wearing pajamas at all hours of the day and has recently become obsessed with socks! He loves school and recently got Panther of the month where he got to each lunch with the Principal. He is pretty proud of that. He is a good student and good friend and is always looking to please. He loves Christmas Crunch cereal and has been eating it since it came out in November. Too bad it is gone for the season after this last box. LOL
We are doing well for the most part and are excited for the New Year. Here is to making new friends, spending great times with family and making dreams come true.
We are grateful for the knowledge we have of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! We love Him and look for ways to strengthen our testimony in Him daily. He is definitely present in our lives and know it is through Him that we can survive life. This season is a reminder to keep Him in our mind and hearts always.
Merry Christmas and may you all have an amazing 2019!
The Whittacre Family
