Christmas Letter version de blog

2007-Does anyone else have bad luck on odd years?
Despite gallbladder surgery for Angela (last surgery was in ’05), job changes for Paul (last out of work in ’05-same day as Angela’s surgery), and lots of needles poking Leah (who missed ’05, lucky girl) for shots, we made an excellent year at our house!
At the end of Summer, we got two puppies! They are named Chimi (CHIM-mee, on the left) and Matte (MAH-tay, on the right). They are half Pomeranian, and half Shih-Tzu. We can’t detect much growth in Chimi, but we think Matte grew enough for both of them! We have since learned how to cut their hair, clip their toenails, brush their teeth, and keep them from chewing a variety of pieces of our house. They roam between the kitchen and deck through their mini-doggie door. We’ll give them the whole yard when we get a fence on one side. :)
It’s taken most of the year for Angela to adjust to life without a gallbladder. The fun part was recovering from surgery (Feb), adjusting to a new baby (2 mos. old), and renovating the entire house! I specifically remember carrying a basket of laundry down the hall, trying to avoid tools, molding splinters and exposed carpet tacking with my feet, also avoiding wet paint on the walls, and balancing the basket so as not to disturb my stitches, all while trying my best to hurry to throw the laundry in, so I could get back to the baby and keep listening to her breathe. :)
Paul unexpectedly changed jobs, but is doing the same type of work. He’s now a little closer to home, getting paid a little more, and surrounded by many nice folks! He deserves the most credit for how beautiful our home now looks! We painted every door, ceiling, wall, and cupboard, got new carpet, and also new light fixtures. Paul “bullnosed” several corners, put in new molding in most of the upstairs, did many small repairs, and I made window coverings. I don’t mind that I don’t get out much, because I love it here! Once we got the house fixed up, he spent lots of time fine-tuning his photography skills. His works are our favorite things adorning our freshly painted walls, and this letter.
Leah has been a dream come true. She looks just like her Daddy, and I can honestly say this year didn’t go by too fast, because we enjoyed each day along the way with her. Even the hard days were ones we conquered together! However, she is entering the terrible 1-3’s with a very high-pitched vengeance! Possibly enjoying this most are my parents, who feel like they are getting “revenge” for my screamy youth.
We’ve learned a few new reasons for appreciating the birth of the Savior this year. When He took on mortality, He indicated His “voluntary service,” which was required for our Redemption. We also offer our own voluntary service to God throughout our lives. Thanks to John Milton for that insight! (Paradise Lost, Book 5) We hope you enjoy both the quality and quantity of time spent with loved ones this season!