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January: Lisa's sister Jerri got married to Sandhills rancher Brian Thompson, whom she had dated in college. It was a fun and joyful two-day event, set in the snowy hills of northeast Nebraska. Brian is an expert on “AI.”
Feb: Fun trip to Coco Keys!
March: We took a short family vacation to Ft. Lauderdale. Brad was there to attend a work event, and we all stayed over a couple of extra days for some sun and sand - a great getaway for all after a long winter. Rachel loved seeing all the big boats dockside, and the many lizards scooting around.
May: We spent a long weekend at IHOP (International House of Prayer) in Kansas City with Lisa's friend Betsy, Betsy's husband Alex, and their wonderful daughter Keziah. It was great seeing these amazing folks, and experiencing this stupendous enterprise. Check out ihop.org for more info. This event has had powerful repercussions on our relationship with God. Memorial Day saw a day trip out to Manhattan, KS, to attend the wedding of Brad's cousin Phoebe to her best friend Philip. It was a special day, made even more so by the wonderful setting delectable food, belly dancing, and Brad's reuniting with the many cousins he hadn’t seen for ages, and his very dear Aunt Nancy.
June: We journeyed to Thedford for a joint art show featuring the work of Lisa’s mom and oldest brother. The show was impressive and very well attended by the community. All of the siblings were able to attend as well!
We also headed out east for Brad's job. Mel and Amy came by from Greenwich, with Nicolas and Anna in tow. We spent a beautiful day walking, playing and eating in Jersey City with these dear friends. Then a week on Long Island where R and D got to spend lots of time - at pool and beach - with cousins Will (6), Sarah (8), and Matthew (1.5). The kids are at the ages when we really feel the distance between NY and NE.
August: Lisa's parents left Thedford (NE), their home of 59 years, to move to our fair city. Sold their house, had an estate sale, and now they reside at an assisted living facility on the south side of Lincoln.
In late August and September, David turned 2 and Rachel turned 5. Wow. We're just starting to feel like we can handle this parenting thing. That lasted until we found out Lisa is pregnant, expecting in early May. [Deep breath.] Here we go again!! Praise God! David loves to give kisses to the baby, possibly the sweetest thing I've ever seen.
September: Attended the second memorial Tom Neill Camping Trip in Lake Wilson, KS, in honor of Lisa's brother-in-law. A windy but good time was had by all.
September also saw Lincoln's inaugural fall ultimate frisbee league. Brad served as a team captain and claimed the “oldest player” mantle by about seven years. Geezer or Patriarch? Jury's out.
October: Brad's friend Kurt was biking across Kansas and dropped in for a couple of days' visit which included playing golf, biking, and of course the "poopy diaper" dance which has earned him great renown among the younger set.
Lisa became a great Aunt! Her sister Kelly’s son Jordan and his wife Elizabeth welcomed Bailey, a healthy baby girl to their Albuquerque, NM home on October 25th.
The last couple of months have been a bit of a blur, with some business travel for Brad and our parenting strategies changing as the weather turns colder. Always an adjustment to have to spend a lot more time indoors with kids whose energy seems boundless. Much exceeds their parents' energy at any rate. Lisa's morning sickness has abated during this time, too, a much-appreciated blessing. She still naps a lot though ( :
We pray that this letter finds you well. We enjoy connecting with you at the holidays, even in this small way.
Love,
Lisa, Brad, Rachel & David
