I didn't make Christmas treats for neighbors, I didn't make Christmas treats at all really.  I didn't get a letter sent out. Yet Christmas came all the same!  I enjoyed reading all the letters and cards we received.  I wrote this and figured I would post it to the blog at least.  Happy New Year!

While 13 is supposed to be an unlucky number, 2013 was a good year for our family. 

Bridger was able to complete his Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation this year.  It is a course of 8 college level classes that he has studied for in his free time (haha) to complete.  In our kids’ terms, it means we will be able to go to Disneyland this September for his commencement ceremony.  We are all very excited about this!

I (Cindy) was called as relief society president (leader of the women’s organization in our church) for our local congregation here in Nebraska.  It has become a big portion of all of our lives as everyone in the family has had to pick up the slack of what I don’t have time for anymore.  We went to Idaho for a stint over the summer.  It was nice to see family and friends and get away from the rigors of normal life.  I don’t have much time to read.  I have less time to exercise.  But I like the quote,” Motherhood, it was what you were given time for.”  Giving to them and to others seems to define who I am right now.

Corban went to scout camp for the first time this year and while there, ate a taco for the first time, and actually liked it!  He is in 8^th grade at the middle school and will start at the high school next year.  He is the deacons quorum president.  He still loves jumping on our trampoline close to 365 days a year in any type of weather.

Kjerstin started 6^th grade this year at the middle school.  She tried out for the show choir and made it. She has enjoyed it a lot.  She takes pride in her grades, and loves to learn and have fun.

Brynna is in 3rd grade.  She got braces this year, and will soon start basketball.  She has a developing testimony.  One of the things she asked for this year for Christmas was to be more Christlike. 

Daven is in kindergarten and got new glasses for school this year.  He has wavered between wanting to go and wanting to stay home with Mom.  He is still super duper talkative.  He has told us stories about his “other” family in China, but he recently told me I am his favorite Mom. For him, that is saying something!   

Gideon is very busy as always.  I enjoy staying home with him to hear the funny and cute things he says to me daily.  He keeps me on my toes.  He is the apple of his siblings eyes as well.  They all love him. 

Here is a Christmas message that spoke to me as I am often late, in the relief society and wonder when I will get my own act together.  May each of you feel your own worth in our Heavenly Father’s eyes and our hearts. 

http://segullah.org/daily-special/sabbath-revival-and-the-soul-felt-its-worth/