Christmas 2024

Merry Christmas!!!

As always, Christmas prep has been challenging.  It felt so much more so this year.  But first, a recap.

We actually got some snow in the beginning of 2024.  Snow days were spent sledding and drinking hot chocolate.  Samuel was inducted to the National Junior Honor Society last January.  Unfortunately, he didn't make it to the ceremony because we got into a car accident.  No one was hurt (except for a bump in the head on my part).  Unfortunately, we lost our car and had to get a new one.  

During Spring Break in March, we were lucky to have been able to celebrate Mom's 65th birthday.  It worked out so well that things fell during spring break and we didn't have to miss school.

Summer was the big event!  We were fortunate to have had the ability to go on a family trip to Europe.  We got to spend a few days in London, Northern France (Normandy), and Paris.  

Josh and I got to celebrate our 21st summer anniversary in France.  How cool is that?  We went to Reims to explore, toured and drank champagne at Veuve Cliquot, and thanked God for the many years he has blessed our marriage.

This past summer was also a season of change.  I made the decision to change course in my career.  It was not a choice taken lightly, and I have to say, I have questioned myself so many times if I made the right one.  Over the summer, I accepted a job to become a Special Education teacher in middle school.  It involves taking classes to be a teacher while working as a teacher.  I am not completely leaving nursing, just taking a different route with helping people.  

My first day as a teacher was also Sam's first day of 8th grade (I also teach in his school).  I can't believe he's almost going to high school.  And he's getting taller each day.

Fall came quickly, and before we knew it, it was Thanksgiving.  Our small family spent it at home, thankful for the blessings God has provided. 

Here's us during Halloween.  Josh and Sam likes to dress up, so I thought I would too!

There has been a lot of challenges with my career change; there has been a lot of ups and downs and many tears.  This year's holiday prep has been the most difficult for me.  Amazon did a lot of my gifting, and i'm sure there are many that I forgot to send Christmas gifts to this year.  I didn't get to send any Christmas cards (at all!), hence this long and picture filled electronic letter.  The house was decorated in a rush, and we barely observed any of our family traditions.  One thing I was intentional about this year though, is to cherish each moment with Josh and Sam.  They have been my rock through this transition.

I hope that Christmas not only brought you presents, but also profound joy and thanksgiving.  I am thankful for family and friends like you, who may be far but always close to our hearts.  Though there may be sadness or pain, know that we are praying for you and that we love you.

Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year to all!  From our family to yours!

Love,

Gigi 

(Josh, Sam, and Albus)