Dear Family, Friends and the Internet,

2011 has been a good year for our family. You can see by the picture below that we survived the early-in-the-year snowstorm:

Pippin, our golden retriever sends his love your way. In addition, our eldest, Sophie, finished her senior year. Here’s one of her senior pics:

And, as many seniors do, she went to prom. The dress? To die for. She looked so pretty!

All the kids went to the Harry Potter premier at midnight (of course) and in costume. Here’s Harry, er, Aidan.

Aidan played euphonium and trombone in the band, marching band and jazz band. Here he is at the band banquet. Yep, he’s six foot a lot….currently six foot 3+.

Aidan also traveled to Ghana, West Africa on a mission trip. He’s starting his own ministry helping high school kids share their faith in a natural way.

Julia has been in gymnastics for the first time in her life. She’s very dedicated and has amazing abs! (I think she could beat me up.) She’s come a long way considering this is her first year.

She’s in the eighth grade and terribly sweet and amazingly kind. Recently she spent time with folks from church feeding the homeless.

As a family we ventured to beautiful Colorado for a one week vacation. It blessed us to see mountains and smell alpine air. We inner tubed, hiked, hung out, relaxed and enjoyed the scenery.

Sophie started at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas in August. We dropped her off and tried not to cry. She’s studying English and Christian Studies (possibly with a missions emphasis).

Patrick started a new job in August with a group of vascular surgeons, nearer to our home. It’s good to have him home more. He also teaches our life group at church and does an amazing job. I released three books this year and one self published book about getting published. I spoke way too many times, and am excited about two upcoming releases in 2012. I lead a discipleship group of eighth grade girls, which is a huge blessing.

Madeline the cat hasn’t accomplished much (about as much as Pippin the wonderdog). She sleeps most of the day, meows when she’s angry, and throws up on the carpet when she’s mad. Nice kitty!

We wish all of you an amazing Christmas full of family, joy, Jesus and love.

And a blessed, anticipatory New Year! 2012 here we come!