Merry Christmas Family and Friends! Every year, I strive to complete all my Christmas tasks early (or at least on time. However, it seems like every year, I find myself always rushing and getting things done late (or not getting them done at all). Last Christmas (2022), while spending the holiday in Hawaii, my entire family had Covid. This year, it's a whole slew of things. Needless to say, gifts and Christmas cards were sent late (I'm surprised I got them made at all), and the house is not Christmas-ready (Josh will probably say otherwise).
Just to recap our year, the first half was uneventful. Sam completed 6th grade and is now halfway through 7th grade. We got to spend Spring break with Mom and Dad and got to visit a lot of different places.
Last July, Josh and I celebrated 20 years of marriage. We visited Niagara Falls (I've always wanted to go) and spent a couple of days in Toronto. Last September, I went back to work. I currently work at Sam's school as an Instructional Assistant for SPED (Paraprofessional as it is commonly known). I am slowly easing back into the workforce after staying home for 5 years. It is perfect for us because Sam and I have the same schedule, I have guaranteed weekends and holidays off, and I also get to enjoy winter and summer breaks with Sam.
Sam is thriving well in school. He is in the IMS (Integrated Math and Science) program, and he is enjoying the challenge (especially Algebra). He is also in Robotics Club, National History Day Club, and Gaming Club this year. He is active with the Youth Group in church. He is also becoming very good with playing his guitar. He's been playing a lot of Red Hot Chili Peppers, some Cold Play, and some classic rock. He has grown so much over the past year, I can't believe he will be a bonafide teenager next week!
This past Thanksgiving, we were blessed to have Barbara, Steve, Jenny, and Chance with us. There is so much to be thankful for, and having family to spend the holidays with makes it so much more special.
With joy also comes sadness. The week before thanksgiving, Josh's Dad left his earthly body to be with the Lord. We were able to travel to Oklahoma for his funeral and said our goodbyes. We are grateful for the times we were able to spend him. He will be missed.
As I finish this rather long electronic Christmas letter/card, I want you to know that no matter what kind of year you had, may it be good or bad, that I am praying for you. I also pray that the next year will be better and more fruitful. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year! I love and miss you all!
All my Heart,
Gigi
