2016 is LONG gone, and unlike most of you amazingly "with it" humans, we did not send out Christmas cards, yet again. I LOVE getting Christmas cards, pictures, and letters. I'm surprised every year that we still get some, since we don't send any out. But, every now and then I write one online, or a Groundhog Day Newsletter. And, today is YOUR lucky day. You're welcome in advance.
2016 in Review, plus January 2017, plus Feb 1, 2017
Judd- Judd survived 2016. He's still practicing law. I think people are so lucky who get paid to PRACTICE! Last Fall he decided that if one competition soccer team was good, then TWO teams must be better and has been coaching a boys team in the U12 division. Clara, who is a girl, and our daughter, is on that team. Judd also coaches Tim's U17 team. He really loves coaching soccer and has deeply impacted many of the boys. Judd loves his calling at church as Primary Chorister. He also ran the Reflections program at Fox Hills Elementary. The highlight of his year might have been going to the top of the Space Needle, closely followed by Emmeline vomiting all over him during the night on a cruise ship. He loves being a dad and loves his flexible work schedule that allows him to spend so much time with our kids.
Becky- Well, I started out 2016 with 5 callings, had 6 for a while, and ended up with just 2- Relief Society teacher and Stake Music Chairman. For my first Stake Conference this January, I put together a children's choir. The kids sang two numbers, one of which was written by my friend Jennette Booth and myself. It's called "The Armor of God". If your musical and Mormon, you really should check it out. I'm not just saying that because of my part in it, but because, well, it's really a great song. You can listen to it for FREE. I know, right?
And, it's only $1.99
http://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/the-armor-of-god-digital-sheet-music/20371336
I've really enjoyed being PTA President at Fox Hills Elementary and expanding my piano studio. I now have 10 students! Time goes faster and faster the older I get, so I'm trying to enjoy the last 8 months of being in my 30's. I'm also accepting the little lines on my face and gray hairs that have appeared this last year. I guess I can't look 25 forever!
I really did not enjoy the politics on facebook this year. You may have noticed that I don't post about politics. I don't think it belongs on facebook, but I still like you if you post stuff like that.
Reuben- Reuben, Reuben, Reuben. Reuben is a Senior. He's a Madrigal( special choir) this year and really loving that, although the 37 Christmas performances nearly killed him. He wouldn't let me take him to the doctor until the last one was over. He came home from that visit with an antibiotic and an inhaler. Reuben has been accepted to Utah State University and is waiting to hear back from BYU. He is not excited to get his wisdom teeth out in March, but he might be secretly excited for the girl's choice dance date he has next weekend. He is working on his mission papers and plans to go this Summer. I'm not old enough for this.
Tim- Tim is like Mary Poppins- practically perfect in every way. He has 4.0 and is striving to be the Valedictorian in 2 years. He LOVES LOVES LOVES soccer, and Math, and Science, and playing the violin. He started voice lessons in the fall. This last year, Tim was diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, which means his esophagus is allergic to stuff. We now know that he is allergic to beef, green beans, and dairy.
Amy- Amy is obsessed with cooking and putting it to good use, cooking dinner for the family 3 nights a week. Yes, I'm in Heaven. No, you can't borrow her. She loves school, has a 4.0, and is enjoying rehearsing to be Jack's Mother in her schools performance of "Into the Woods". Amy recently won Regional Reflections and is already planning an even more elaborate entry for next year. This last year, Amy gave up candy in May and didn't eat ANY for the rest of the year. She also drastically reduced her sugar intake and is feeling so much healthier.
Clara- Clara is still short and spunky. She loves 6th grade and wowed the crowds with her performance in her Shakespeare play as the Jester. She's really a talented actress. Right now she is rehearsing for Broadway Kids and has a solo. Clara sings or talks about 95% of her waking time. She is enjoying soccer and most of the boys are afraid of her. She plays the clarinet at school and is starting to freak out about starting 7th grade in August.
Audrey- Audrey is in 4th grade and teacher's pet yet again. She spends most of her free time dancing or at gymnastics. That girl loves to flip! Audrey has quite a bit of sassitude and isn't afraid to show it. She's getting really good at choreographing dance routines. We aren't sure where she got her moves from, but some things skip generations.
Emmeline- Emmeline, also teacher's pet, is in 1st grade, and loves life. She takes gymnastics with her sister and dance class as well. Yesterday Emmeline told her dad,"I love you Daddy, but, well, just so ya know, I love Mommy more." She's still really cute and small and we are just dreading her growing up, but you can't keep the baby little forever. Emmeline is smart and funny and loves being with her family. She loves to cuddle and sing and is starting to learn the piano.
Well, there you go. Happy Groundhog Day. That dang little furball saw his shadow and we're in for six more weeks of Winter, but hopefully that little slice of life gave you a few moments of relief from the dirty air and bitter cold. There is nothing more important to us than our family. We are so grateful to have each other, for each day we get to be together and for every memory made. Thank you for being part of our lives in whatever capacity- friend, family, or anonymous facebook fan.
p.s. Since I told you I would cover February 1st, 2017, I supposed I should tell you that yesterday I drove the boys to early morning Seminary, taught 2 piano lessons, cleaned for my mom, picked up Clara, cleaned the house, and went to a Wellness Seminar at Brick Oven. There. Now, I'm not a liar.
HAPPY the rest of 2017 from my family to yours!
Love,
The Pitts
