Dear Friends and Family,
Wow, what a year it has been! It is hard for us to believe that 2009 has come and is almost gone. These are some of the things that we have seen and done this year.
Quinn is now in his fifth year working as a lineman for Pedernales Electric Coop., and he loves the work there and all that he has learned. He had many opportunities to travel and work in other places this year, such as two months in Kyle, a weeklong trip to Junction, and an occasional trip to Marble Falls, among many other places. He loved the opportunity to meet new people and overcome new challenges. He works very hard, and in sometimes extreme weather conditions i.e. 100+ degree temperatures and thunderstorms, but he loves the work and the knowledge he has gained. When Quinn isn't being a lineman and a dad, he and his good friend Eric, have lots of fencing work to do. It isn't unusual for Quinn to work 7 days a week for weeks on end. Sometimes we are not sure how he keeps on going. Somehow he manages to do it all and never complains. Even with all that on his plate, he still manages to squeeze in our weekly roping. He loves his horse 'Rusty', and has got him working really well.
Most of the Time, I am still a stay-at-home mom, with the occasional substitute teaching (once or twice a week). What a blessing it is to be able to stay at home with my children! I can't imagine not being there for all the little milestones. I also decided this year it was time to get rid of that extra pound or two I had gained somwhere between my pregnancy with Emily, and long after Cade was born. Sure, I wanted to lose weight, but I wanted to make sure that it would be a healthy lifestyle change, not just a temporary diet. I also followed my sister and a few other friend's example, and picked up running. I never knew that would be something I would learn to love and crave. I love the new habits I have formed, and hope I can continue this lifestyle. In my spare time, I sold a horse, bought a new one, helped out on the ranch, taught the youth Sunday school class, and managed to squeeze in some great times with good friends. Recently I was able to join the Blair's team and work on weekends. I love the people I work with and they have made me feel like part of the family. Not to mention, I get to work in the cutest store EVER!
Gavin Started 1st grade this year. He loves his teacher, Mrs. Meier, and tells her she is the best teacher he has ever had. This is probably why he makes straight A's, besides being exceptionally smart. We are so proud of him and the example he is to his siblings. He celebrated his 7th birthday this year, and we cannot believe how fast he is growing. He loves riding his horse 'Strawberry' and going as fast as he can. He also loves riding sheep, and won several buckles, ribbons, and trophies this year, along with a few ribbons from competing in the barrels and pole bending. Gavin was able to go to Alaska for a fishing trip and the NFR in Las Vegas with his dad. He has seen many places and done many things for such a young man.
Emily has turned into our little horse riding, tomboy, princess, meltdown having, sweet as an angel, funny quote saying, precious little girl. I've always heard that kids say the darndest things, well she does! She keeps us laughing, whether it is what is coming out of her mouth, or the funny things she is doing. She loves getting dirty down at the barn, but still loves going shopping for toys, clothes, and shoes. I guess she does take after her mom after all.
Cade turned two this year, and I have to say that he is the best two-year old I've had. We have lots of nick names for him, like plar bear, gentle giant, tator, schnoocklfritz, booger, among others. He is stout, but he has a heart as big as he is. He already blind sides Emily and takes her to the ground. He can also be found with a rope in his hand most of the day. We can't get over how good he is at swinging a rope. We have never seen someone so small, love roping so much. I even have to take the rope into the grocery store with us. We have convinced him not to take it to church though. He also loves hanging out at the barn and riding the horses, going and feeding the cows, standing out on the porch watching them graze, watching Tech the tractor, and playing with his woo woos (trains).
We have so much to be grateful for, and most importantly we are so thankful for the Gospel in our lives and the blessings it brings us. We love the opportunity we have to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We hope that this finds all of you happy and well. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe holiday season.
Love,
Quinn, Jessica, Gavin, Emily, and Cade
Mom and Cade trying to open presents
Emily and Cade with her castle
Jess and Cade
Gavin on his motorcycle
Brandon loaded up all the kids and took them for a 4-wheeler ride.
