The greatest, most
spectacular, and life-altering event this year was welcoming our little son into the
world and our family. Andrew is a joy to have with us. The first
month was a huge adjustment for all, but we are so
excited to have him and all the joy that comes from being parents. It has
been really fun watching him learn and grow. He is almost 6 months old
now, he makes us laugh every day, and his little personality is starting to
shine! Some of his favorite things are: singing songs, bouncing, going
for walks, sitting up and reading books! Look close you can see his cute
little teeth!
Briant, is still
working for Melaleuca, which is a great company and has been so good to us.
Briant's big task this year (other than becoming a dad) was to research
and apply to MBA programs. If Briant wasn't working on that he was planning and preparing
for events and Sundays with the Young Men in our church. Along with all
of his responsibilities, he has the new responsibility of being a dad.
Briant is a terrific daddy and husband!
Melissa, had
nothing on the brain this whole year but the baby. Early in the year, she
did all the researching, reviewing and buying of baby stuff. She also made some curtains and blankets for the little guy's room and had a fun baby shower. She spends most of her time taking care
of and figuring out the little man (he changes so much and so often). But
there are always moments that she has time to spend doing what she wants.
She learned how to knit this year, and is currently working on a stocking
for Andrew (lets hope she finishes before Christmas). She also enjoys
making cards, taking pictures, and making desserts she's never made before.
Having a baby
really brought us down a notch from all the things we normally do
every year. But considering that, we still did a lot.
Early in the year
we bought a new car, got smart phones, had fun with family (especially all those who came
to stay with us), had a Baby-moon (two people + having fun together
before baby comes = time well spent) in Utah and braved a surprising
event (Briant had surgery). Melissa said good bye to her job, and had pictures taken.
Summer brought us
joy, heat, and big responsibility!
The two months
after Andrew was born slowed to a crawl. Melissa really didn't do anything but
feed, change, watch, hold and take pictures of Andrew.
Briant, on the
other hand, was very busy. First he went to Bear Lake with the young men
in our ward (for High Adventure), then when Andrew was 6 weeks old, he wen't
to Minneapolis, MN, for his work's annual Convention (thank goodness for
family to come stay with Melissa). He was always doing something... even
when he was "relaxing."
September was a
busy month.
harvested veggies, Briant went on MBA visits, and Melissa
cut her hair off...no, not all of it!
and taking pictures, going on walks (while the good weather
lasted), football, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. Melissa started all kinds
of baking once
the cold weather hit, and then more baking during the holidays.
We look forward to
2012 and the many adventures that await us as Briant attends school. New
places to visit and new sites to see. But for now we are most grateful
for the times we will share close to family and friends.
We are so grateful
for this holiday season and the fun that comes with it. It is packed with
traditions, good food, candies, spreading cheer and giving gifts which makes us
all love it so much. But most importantly, we remember it as the time of
year when we think of the greatest gift given to us by our Heavenly Father.
It is the time we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
We remember and recognize the matchless sacrifice He bore for us all, and
spread the joy that His gospel brings us. How grateful we are for Him,
and the miracles He performed and can perform in our lives. There are
many forces around us that will deny the sanctity of this season, demoralizing
it in so many ways and the true purpose behind it. Even though we were not
in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus to witness His birth, the angels
singing, or even the wise men, we know that He came and is the King of Kings
and Lord of Lords. We have felt in our hearts the love He has for us, and
the special feelings this season brings. We know that He lives, He brings
us peace and joy, and He is the true source of happiness.
Merry Christmas to
you all, and may the following year be one of joy and happiness for you and
those you love!
Love,
Briant, Melissa,
and Andrew
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