Merry Christmas!

This year has been a crazy one for us. I'm sure most if not all of you are aware Chase got laid off back in January. We sold our house in Lehi and my parents graciously allowed us to move into their basement until we get back on our feet again. Chase has been in numerous hiring processes, which we hopefully will see results from soon. He actually has been accepted to the Border Patrol, but it will probably be a year before he can enter their academy. Right now we are hoping for one of the fire fighting jobs to come through as well. It's hard to imagine being out of work for that long. In November Chase got a job with the postal service as a part time carrier. He works on Saturday and has occasionally subbed. I started working as night watch for a residential treatment center for troubled teenage girls the end of Aug. It has been difficult at times, but we feel blessed to have the jobs we have.

Bailey is 9 and loving 4th grade. She has made some good friends and enjoys school, activity days, playing the piano, Irish dancing, knitting & crocheting, and making crafts. Bailey is constantly coming up with fun ideas whether it's games to play, or crafts to decorate her room, or ways to earn money. Bailey decided to set up a “sale” out in front of the house and sold things she didn't want any more, crafts, treats, and lemonade. Bailey is a big helper and a great daughter and sister.

Addison is 7 and in the 2nd grade. She loves school, and also plays the piano and loves Irish dancing. Addie is a crazy girl with lots of big plans like her sister. Her most recent money making scheme is to rub Grandma's feet for a little cash. Addie loves to collect things, rocks, leaves, even the occasional potato bug. Addie is a sweet girl who loves to do things and make things for other people. She loves playing with her brother and sisters and giving Emery piggy back rides. She is always eager to bring home artwork or draw pictures for everyone.

Cameron is 5 and loving Kindergarten. He is learning all his letters and is very good with numbers. He is our little ball of energy running around all the time. He just finished up the season of wrestling which he became very good at. Now he wants to try the Irish step dance with the girls. Cam is a sweet and crazy boy who loves to tease and joke around. He loves playing with friends, playing the computer, and the wii. Cam is a great brother and son and loves to help his little sister Emery.

Emery is 2 and is quite the little character. She speaks very well for her age, better than any of my other kids at that same age and will say the funniest things. She is quick to give hugs and kisses to anyone who is leaving or coming home. She gets so excited anytime someone returns home and for example will exclaim loudly, “Mommy, you came home!”, and then run up and give you loves. Emery is very sweet, but can be very stubborn and independent. She loves playing with toys, reading, singing, “practicing” the piano, and watching “Yo Gabba Gabba”.

Chase has been busy looking for work obviously, and working his postal job. He has also been trying to get into shape for whatever job should come our way, whether it's the border patrol or firefighting. Chase has been awesome helping with the kids and getting up with them, especially on the days that I have to work. Earlier this year we also team taught a primary class together at church. Chase has occasionally enjoyed playing basketball at the church as well.

I have been busy working and taking care of kids. I have had the opportunity to be Cameron's Kindergarten class home room mom, which has been interesting. I am currently an activity day leader at church working with the girls ages 8-12 which has been fun especially since Bailey is in activity days.

Other news, if you've actually read this far, is that we are expecting baby number 5 in March! It has not been the best timing, but we are looking forward to having an added blessing come to our family. The kids are all very excited to have a new sibling come join our family. We aren't 100% sure, but the doctors are leaning towards the baby being a girl. We had 2 ultrasounds and the baby was breech with legs crossed, so not much cooperation in that area. I guess we will find out for sure in a couple of months.

We hope this season finds you all well and wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Love,
Jennifer, Chase, Bailey, Addison, Cameron, Emery, & Baby : )