Christmas Letter 2017

Happy Holidays! This year has brought a welcome peace and presence. With ten camping trips in 2017, we’ve taken lessons from nature and stopped to smell the roses (or, more aptly, watch the tadpoles). The time together and fresh air, as well as time away from computer screens- sorry we quit Facebook, I do miss “seeing” everyone- has boosted everyone’s health and happiness. But don’t worry, we still keep it crazy… kitchen remodel in the works!

Nug (6) must secretly be running a day care; she has asked Santa again for more baby dolls and gear! She is such a nurturing child, and I admire her big, warm, insightful personality. She also loves gymnastics and tried t-ball and golf this year (loved golf!). The tooth fairy has been hovering over our house lately; 1^st graders are a beautiful, goofy bunch.

Our first Girl Scout hike was a success

Cookie (3) began preschool this fall, three days a week. She enjoys pretending to love an activity (dance, gymnastics), until I pay for an entire semester. She still has a deep love for mushrooms, but has added brussel sprouts to her list. She has a quiet sense of humor and an inspiring groove to disco music. She is excited about turning four as well as getting away with things like only a second child can.

She's cute even when she's grumpy!

W is keeping life- and our driveway- full. In addition to the camper and a new truck, a boat came home at Thanksgiving! It’s a sweet little fishing boat with an engine, and it does float! She also had a wood stove installed in our home, so we are treated to campfires every day. Work has kept her engaged: her team won a new contract for adult ed services in a new state, and she has taken new responsibility over from her retiring boss.

Waiting on the dock for our first boat trip (It took awhile to get started, like an hour. My parents are in the background)

My blogging has suffered as a result of time now spent shuttling two children to school. My new creative outlet, however, is Girl Scout leader and soccer coach, both of which require a refractory period of chardonnay. I’ve picked up a few more hours at work, but am also working on getting to yoga once a week and re-learning how to be alone in a quiet house.

Travel: Camping took us up and down the coast. We made our annual pilgrimage to New Jersey this summer, and combined it with a family reunion in Chicago. In between trips, we happily hosted my parents seven times, and will rendezvous with brother’s family for Christmas. I only know all of this thanks to photographs!

Warm wishes from the wilderness! Love, us

Links to Christmas cards of years past:
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016