I thought it might be nice to share our Christmas newsletter this way, as it’s sometimes fun to share a bit of family life as well as just business events. — Merry Christmas and may you also have a blessed New Year — full of happiness, surrounded by loved ones, and prosperity too, of course! Here’s praying that 2011 settles down economically a bit!
At 3 pounds, 15 ounces and almost 18” long , she’s actually a pretty big “preemie,” but her development still has a ways to go before she can go home sometime in January. Her Mom and Dad (our daughter-in-law Erin and son Aaron) are both doing well, although feeling a bit 
overwhelmed by daily demands.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to periodically go to Hillsboro to be with big sisters Sophia and Madeline as they adjust to the hectic schedule of hospital visits combined with school and activities. Sophia is turning into a champion member of her swim team while Madeline is coming into her own at preschool. What a smart little cookie she is. Kindergarten can’t come too soon!
Our next newest grandchild, little Tyler, is now a busy busy! 15-month-old toddler that just wins everyone’s hearts. He’s definitely an engaging little bud, with a huge smile, never ending baby vocabulary, and feet that go just as fast as they can before they lose traction or balance, plopping him down on his little bottom.
With Jen, Steve & Tyler in Port Coquitlam, BC, and Erin, Aaron, Sophia, Madeline & Clara in Hillsboro, OR, we sure wish all the grands lived closer! Being Gramma and Grampa is FUN!
In our own household, Galen is now within reach of his AA degree in Construction at Green River Community College. It’s tough finding work in housing construction at the moment, but he’s picking up piece work now and then, while looking for something full time.
Bill’s job at Microsoft came to an abrupt end in July, so he and Galen are pounding the pavement (& keyboards) together along with challenging each other weekly to see who can put in the most job applications. We’re hoping jobs for both of them come along … SOON!
I’m still hard at work peddling houses through RE/MAX. The housing market is challenging, but I’ve been blessed with a fairly steady stream of business for the last few months. (Thank heavens!) In addition to transaction work, my days are filled with prospecting for business through blogging and Facebook, etc., along with an ever-increasing variety of community involvement.
All in all, we’re hanging in there through this blasted economic downturn — working as hard as we can and praying for jobs and business — just like most everyone else. We know that 2011 will be an easier year!
May your Christmas and onward into the New Year continue to be blessed with much happiness and laughter! We hope to see you or talk to you soon!
