Christmas morning . . .

We had a smaller than usual group for Christmas this year - but still a happy one!! Tanner and Les were in Spokane. Ran and Beth were in Atlanta. And Bret, of course, was in sunny Brazil. But that didn't stop us! We lined up in order (shouldn't I have been in front of Shawney?) and headed in to see Santa's abundance. We then enjoyed presents, food, lots of family, church, music, and games. Such a happy day.

Happy Birthday!

What do these 2 great family members have in common? They share the same birthday! Beth turned 26 while Max reached the big 15. They had fun planning the menu together and opening presents together. And, of course, it wouldn't be a birthday for Max if it didn't conclude with a Costco chocolate cake. Yum!

The Geography Bee

There's that Marcy - making her second appearance in her elementary school geography bee. She had some stumpers and didn't advance as far as she would have liked, but we're proud that she made it to the finals. Watch for a future post documenting her successes in the upcoming school spelling bee!

National Honor Society

We couldn't be prouder of Chap. This time, it's because of his accomplishment of applying to and being accepted for membership in the National Honor Society. The application required a lot of work - letters of recommendation, an abundance of signatures related to service, academics, and leadership - not to mention having the academics to back it up. And, as always, he loves a chance for a photo op. Go Chap.

The Appalachian Trail

These two love doing things together - especially if it's something outside! This year, the annual Thanksgiving Appalachian Trail hike was attended by just the two of them. They hiked about 20 miles through the Shenandoah Forest of Virginia and enjoyed the wildlife, the outdoors, the food, and the sense of accomplishment! Can't wait to see what they'll do next year!

Wanted: Dead or Alive!

Marcy and Daren had a foot stompin', knee slappin' good time at the Daddy Daughter activity for the young girls at church. They sported their best western wear, and had fun running sack and wheelbarrow races, eating donuts on a string, and trying to dodge the sheriff by wearing flawless disguises! This daddy and daughter are the best of friends and have fun together, no matter what the activity!

The Holy Land

Daren's work has taken him to many places so far, but by far one of his favorites has been his trip to Israel and to Jordan. While not working, he was able to visit much of the city of Jerusalem - including the Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall, the Mount of Olives, and the Garden of Gethsemane. His work showed him first hand that Palestinians and Israelis can work cooperatively together. He also enjoyed some time in Tel Aviv and in Amman, Jordan.