One of the greatest parts of being Catholic is celebrating Christmas a season rather than just a day. Our tree is still up and decorated.
Recalling the story of the birth of Jesus and Mary visiting Elizabeth stirs up mixed emotions. It’s a reminder of God’s goodness that “nothing is impossible for God” (Luke 1:37), yet also brings to mind that another year has passed. Our arms remain empty and hearts ache with grief. Still there is a lot to be thankful for. Every year we look back to recall the highlights and memorable moments of the previous year.
Highlights from 2015 (no specific order)
- Rachel had In-N-Out Burger at three different times in three different states
- The grand opening of a Chick-Fil-A in the 253
- Our trip to Maui
- Rex received a job promotion
- Nathanael Patrick & Damien John
- Shared our witness story for the Eucharistic Congress
- Consecrated ourselves to Jesus through Mary [33 Days to Morning Glory]
- Washington Visit from the Rincon family
- The Currall nuptials & reception
- Learned how to play Seven Wonders Game
- Small Group Gathering at Far-a-way Retreat House
- 5 year Anniversary staycation in San Juan Islands
- Ella made us godparents for the first time
- All Sons & Daughters Concert
- Small Group Memorial Day Weekend Getaway
- The launch of our family blog (and the readership that followed)
- More family portraits by Tina Wood
- Two former youth asked Rachel to chaperone them to WYD2016 in Poland
- Began fundraising and planning for WYD2016
- Confirmation Sponsors for Reagan and Kira
- Rachel was asked to be Gabriel’s godmother
- Visting Fr. Dean (aka Fr. BFF) in Vancouver/Portland
- Rex submitted his application for the Diaconate
- Seeing Jessica from DC over Labor Day Weekend
- Continued call to serve in ministry
- Advent puzzle
We truly pray that you have a blessed Christmas Season & Happy Joyous New Year.
From all of us,
Rex, Rachel and our beloved little ones: Casey Francis, Andrew Joseph, Catherine Hope, James Aloysius, Abigail Therese, Nathanael Patrick and Damien John.