It is impressive when people take the time to write out Christmas cards, address them, mail them, and get them out on time. I loved receiving all the cards this year and adding to the decorations around the house. Familiar faces, snowmen, the jolly Elf, dogs dressed in lights, and of course the Christ Child send messages of Hope, Goodwill, and just plain fun. Our year was a bit busy, so I let that one go. However, I appreciated getting them! So, if you were one of those generous people who sent Christmas cards to us this year – Thank you!
Reflecting back on the year we were amazed to count the number of major life events in our family. One might ask, “how can you handle so much stress?” But in reality, if we could handle it on our own we wouldn’t need to reach out to the Lord. It is with His strength that we have come this far, and by His grace that we have lived yet another year.
Here is the highlight reel from the West family household.
I got a new body. It took one major surgery and several minors but we are finally, finally finished. Nobody can make a body part like God can, but my doctor sure came close. I am thankful to be at the end of that journey.
I published a book chapter.
My mother passed away in early June. This was the first holiday season we have experienced without her. We missed her tremendously, but we know she is in a much better place.
I started a new job, teaching as an adjunct for MACU. I still work for Capella full time as well.
Our son got married in June, and we added a new daughter to our family. We love Maggie and what she brings to us!
Soon after the honeymoon, our kids revealed they are bringing us our first grandchild! Little Alison Rose will arrive sometime in late Winter, early Spring.
We earned 109 ABC points covering 32 states and about 8,000 miles on the Harley. This is the most we have ever completed in one year!
We hosted a French immersion student. Elizabeth’s boyfriend visited us twice, and she visited his home once as well. They continue to face chat daily.
Elizabeth turned 17, and Bryan turned 23.
Tim turned 50!
Here is one year in comparison…We both have longer hair this year. My head and Tim’s face. LOL. I actually like the short hair look and feel on my head, since my longer hair is so frizzy. But I’m glad to have it back! A true testimony to being cancer (and chemo) free! So, which do you like better: Tim 2013 or 2014? Cindy 2013 or 2014? Leave a comment below and let us know.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We hope you have a blessed New Year as we bring in 2015 together!
À la prochaine (Until next time) …