January brought some much needed routine. Matthew helped me clear away the Christmas tree and decorations which I greatly appreciated!
I recently saw a license plate that I felt described my situation pretty well.
I was sad to see Matt leave for Texas to start his new job, but recognize that it is only temporary and many others have had much longer separations! I look forward to his visits home. Because of a work audit and other work related issues he wasn't able to visit until February. However, we were able to purchase our land and work with our builder and designer to plan our home floor plans. It is amazing how much you can do over Zoom calls! In the mean time we enjoyed sharing photos of our locations to compare notes.
Later in the month we got an unexpected delivery from Matt's new employer. It was a acknowledgement of the challenge/ thank you for the sacrifice of being separated from Matt during this time. I thought this was a very thoughtful gesture!
This month has been full of car registrations and car repairs (my trunk, battery, tires, a motor mount, and lots of trips to identify the source of strange sounds in my van). I definitely miss Matt when it comes to dealing with vehicle stuff! I guess I need to learn a bit more self reliance. Ha! I have also kept busy with dental/orthodontist/doctor/vet/blood donation appointments
January also had some highlights and many routine activities.
On Jan 22nd we took the youth up to the mountains to enjoy the snow.
I feel so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and leaders to work with!
On January 29th we went to the Oakland temple with the youth and had a lovely time.
Other youth activities include New Beginnings, a Children and Youth fireside, a Q & A fireside, annual activity planning, and training of the new youth presidencies. While I'm on the topic of Church things, I want to recognize a milestone for Sterling who is now a priest and is able to bless the sacrament. It seems that lately he has been maturing more socially and in his personal reflection. He seems to listen to counsel more and is more obedient and conscientious with his influence as a leader in our home. For example, when I ask the kids to do something, he will quickly agree and encourage the rest of the family to do it without dragging their feet. He also seems to have more motivation for his personal goals. I appreciate all of this very much. He has also mentioned that he feels that things are finally starting to fall into place socially and in extracurriculars. He enjoys DM-ing for his Game club, voice lessons, and is planning to try out for track soon. Also, Sterling got his Drivers Permit!
Here are some fun gymnastics videos from this month:
Christian also continues with gymnastics. Here he is at Get Air where he showed me that he can now do a back flip.
Christian also tested into the GATE (Gifted and Talented) program and we are hoping that he will be able to join a similar program when we move to TX.
Sheri continued to play soccer, but had to discontinue her season early due to her persistent knee pain. She was scheduled for an MRI (came back normal) and started physical therapy.
Sheri is now old enough to go to church dances! Yay!
Eve continues to push through her senior year and just learned that she will have the featured roll of the white queen in the spring dance recital - Alice and Wonderland. Sheri will be her duchess. It will be so fun to see the girls dance together on stage again! Here are a few pictures and videos of Sheri and Eve at dance.
January has been exceedingly busy! We have been able to do many good things. I've managed to stay on top of my priorities while helping the kids through their individual challenges. Of course I am grateful for the steadying/grounding influence of the gospel in my life and for many friends and loved ones that support me, especially when I feel that there is more to be done than time and energy allow!
